How do I optimize CAM Assist results for machining?
CAM Assist's efficiency will vary based on part complexity, tool applications, material types, machine constraints, and user preferences. To optimize CAM Assist results for the machining process, various edits will be necessary.
The initial significant edit can occur prior to executing CAM Assist. This involves preparing the model to maximize machining access to the part, encompassing workholding arrangements, tool projections, or fundamental model configurations to ensure all faces are machinable. For instance, in situations with sharp vertical corners, these are generally unmachinable in a milling context and would necessitate an inside corner radius for CAM Assist to attempt sequential machining of the walls on both sides of the corner. Another example involves understanding the types of tools available to machine a feature on the model, and whether they are even capable of doing so. CAM Assist lacks the capacity to infer that certain parts of a model should be fabricated as anything other than what the model depicts. Consequently, if drill sizes exceed hole sizes, CAM Assist may bypass the hole making process entirely due to the absence of an available match in the tool library. External information typically residing within the programmer's cognitive faculties will not be an inherent factor in CAM Assist's approach to the machining process. CAM Assist can only utilize the information provided within the model's basic design.
The second major edit would be after CAM Assist generates acceptable toolpaths. These toolpaths can be analyzed in the "Analyze" phase under the program tab. This feature allows for the viewing of roughing regions and their deactivation if detailed roughing is not desired in specific areas. Alternatively, other toolpath types can be deactivated if a different approach is preferred. Subsequently, when posting to the CAM package, it will be crucial to backplot or simulate all toolpaths and modify them to better align with the user's requirements. This could range from altering the depth of spot drills to changing specific tools. There will be instances where CAM Assist's rules prevent it from utilizing certain tools for more expeditious machining methods, such as one-to-one corner radii matches when machining walls, or employing a tolerance for drill sizes. In such cases, the programmer will need to exercise their professional judgment to edit CAM Assist's results. Ultimately, it remains the programmer's responsibility to edit the program prior to the machining process to ensure optimal machining performance.