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OverviewEdgeCAMs ToolStorehas been designed as an easy-to-use tooling database, available duringmanufacture and from within operations. Tools can be added, removed, edited and finally selected

for use within EdgeCAM.

To avoid data file corruption, ToolStore data should only ever be edited in EdgeCAM applications.

The data format of ToolStore databases should neverbe edited as this may render the database

unreadable to EdgeCAM applications.

Please note that Microsoft Access 2000 databases are not supported by EdgeCAM and that the

ToolStore database should not be converted to this format.

A database has been installed, tstore.mdb containing example tools. The supplied databasecontains a large number of records and extra functionality is available for you to perform your own

data management.

You can select the database you want to use by right -clicking on the title bar of the ToolStore

dialog and selecting the Database Utilities, Locationcommand.

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Accessing the ToolStore from EdgeCAM

Open the ToolStore by using the Toolingmenus ToolStorecommand.

Alternatively, click ToolStoreon the Tooling toolbar.

You can also select tools from the ToolStore directly from both Operationsand the Toolchange

command.

If you use one of EdgeCAMs

operations or a toolchange,

you will find a ToolStore field:

ClickFindnext to this field to access the ToolStore.

Also seeSelecting and Viewing ToolsandFiltering the ToolStore.

Select the desired tool and click OK.

You will return to the dialog,

where the tools parameters

have been automatically

entered into the appropriate

fields.

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Configuring the ToolStore

If you have any problems accessing the ToolStore, first make sure EdgeCAM is set up to allow you

access to the ToolStore.

From the Optionsmenu, select Preferencesand choose the Tool Libraries tab. EdgeCAMdisplays a dialog that defines the locations of the ToolStore and the Tooling Database. Check the

Activebox if you want to use a particular tool library.ClickBrowseto find and select the location of the library.

Here are the default locations:

ToolStore edgecam\cam\tstore\tstore.mdb

Tooling Database edgecam\cam\toollib\

Check the Round Feeds/Speedsbox to automatically round values when loading the tool into

EdgeCAM. You can specify how the speed and feed values are rounded by entering the appropriate

value in the Decimalsfield (for example, -2 will round to the nearest 100, -1 to the nearest 10, 0

to an integer, 1 to the nearest 0.1 and 2 to the nearest 0.01 etc).

Display Toolchange Only applicable when you access the ToolStore through the Tooling menuor toolbar. Check this box to display the toolchange dialog after you have selected a tool from the

ToolStore. This allows you to change any parameters such as turret position, colour, layer and so

on.

You can also select a new database by right-clicking on the title bar of the ToolStore dialog and

selecting the Database Utilities, Locationcommand.

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Selecting and Viewing Tools

To select a tool record, simply click on it in the tool list, and click Select. This inserts a toolchange

command in EdgeCAM that uses the selected tool data. (Depending upon your preferences

described in Configuring the ToolStore the toolchange dialog will be displayed.)

Click on Cancelto leave the ToolStore without selecting a tool.

A right-hand mouse click on the panel calls up the context menu which offers you a selection ofcommands to choose from.

To filter the list of tools, you can use the Filtering/Toolsbutton on the right-hand side of the

panel to display the filter dialog which lets you specify exactly how to limit the list of displayed

tools. Once you have completed entering data into the filter, click Applyto display the filtered tool

list. See Filtering the ToolStore.

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Configuring the Display Columns

Right clicking in the record panel will open the context menu. Select the Columnsoption to open

the column configuration dialog containing a list of available columns for display. Check the

categories you want to display. You can use the up and down arrows in the centre of the dialog to

move a highlighted entry up and down the list. This will change its position in the window.

Once you have completed your configuration, click Apply. Select Cancelto close the configurationdialog.

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Changing the Tool View

The right-hand side of the dialog shows a view of the tool, based on the currentrecords parameters. You can manipulate this view in several ways.

Rotate move mouse with left key depressed.

around x only -press the x key while rotating.

around y only -press the y key while rotating.

around z only -press the z key while rotating.

Pan Shift+ moving the mouse with the left key depressed.

Zoom either use the wheel mouse to zoom in and out or Alt+move mouse up or

down with left mouse key depressed.

Default view double-click on top of the graphics view panel.

A red dot shows the

tool set point:

A black and white checked

cone shows the gaugepoint:

The tool graphics view

To display tool holders, ensure that the Show Holderscommand is checked. You can select this

command by right-clicking on the title bar of the ToolStore dialog.

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Filtering the ToolStore

To filter with more precision, click Toolsto display the filter

dialog which lets you specify exactly how to limit the list of

displayed tools. Once you have completed entering data into

the filter, click Applyto display a filtered tool list.

To return to the normal unfiltered view of the tool list, ensure that the

Use Filterbutton is not pressed.

See Also

Mill Filtering

Turn Filtering

Hole Filtering

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Mill Filtering

This tab allows you to specify exactly how to limit the list of displayed milling tools.

TheJobfield allows you direct access to the Job Manager. Select a job

from the browse button.

Include Available Tools Check to show all tools suitable for this job.

If unchecked, only tools already selected for the job will be shown.

TheTool Descriptionfield can be used to find all tool records startingwith the same search string.

Material This allows you direct access to the materials database. Select

a material from the browse button. Filters will be automatically applied so

that the tools displayed are capable of cutting the material selected.

Include Material Check to include all tools that you have

specified feeds and speeds for in the past (independent of a material).

The Exclude button allows you to exclude the tools with specific

commentsor notes.

TheMinimumand Maximumfieldsdefine the range for a parameter.

For example, enter 25 into the

Minimum field for Diameter to

restrict the display to show tools

equal to or larger than

25mm/inches in diameter.

If you press Tab after entering a Minimumnumber, this number is also entered in the Maximumfield.

Location Choose between All or filtering on a particular machine tool.

TheAssignmentbuttons allows you to filter on tools generally availablein stores, tools allocated to a particular machine tool or unavailable tools.

Note that the parameters Locationand Assignmentare of equal

priority. If you want to see all tools at a particular location AND all

allocated tools select the location field and press Allocated. If you want

to see only those tools at a particular location DO NOT PRESS Allocated.

The drop down list at the bottom of the dialog allows you to narrow the

type of records that are displayed to visible or invisible tools only or to

display all tools.

To make invisible records visible, select only invisible toolsfrom the

drop down list. The reactivated records will now be displayed in the toollist. They can be edited to make some or all of them visible again.

Once you have completed entering data into the filter, click Applytodisplay the filtered tool list. Select OKto close the filter dialog.

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Turn Filtering

This tab allows you to specify exactly how to limit the list of displayed turning tools.












commentsor notes.

CutDepth These parameters filter on various parameters dependingon the turning tool type:

Turn & Bore tools

Grooving, Parting & Threading tools

Edge Length or Inscribed Circle

Reach




priority. If you want to see all tools at a particular location AND allallocated tools select the location field and press Allocated. If you want




display all tools.


drop down list. The reactivated records will now be displayed in the tool

list. They can be edited to make some or all of them visible again.


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Hole Filtering

This tab allows you to specify exactly how to limit the list of displayed drilling tools.












commentsor notes.

TheMinimumand Maximumfieldsdefine the range for a parameter.

For example, enter 25 into the

Minimum field for Diameter to

restrict the display to show tools

equal to or larger than

25mm/inches in diameter.

If you press Tab after entering a Minimumnumber, this number is also entered in the Maximumfield.




priority. If you want to see all tools at a particular location AND all

allocated tools select the location field and press Allocated. If you want




display all tools.


drop down list. The reactivated records will now be displayed in the toollist. They can be edited to make some or all of them visible again.


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Global Edit

This dialog allows you to edit several records at the same time.

If more then one record is selected and the Editbutton is pressed you will be able to edit the

Comment,Tool Graphicand Holder Graphicinformation for all of the highlighted records.

Location Specify the location of the tool or browse for a machine tool to assign the tool to.

Assignment Use these buttons to make tools generally available in stores, allocate them to a

particular machine tool or make them unavailable.

Visible in list Uncheck this box to make records invisible and to shorten the list of displayed

records.

If you click OK, any changes made in this dialog are committed to the database. If you click

Cancel, all changes are ignored.

See Also

User Defined Graphics

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Printing

The ToolStore provides a simple two-page wizard that lets you define a report layout and specify

where to print the report.

ClickPrintto display the first page of the wizard. This page allows you to define the layout of the

report. A sample report is shown here:

The last line is the footer that appears on every page, showing the Date & Time,Page

Numbering, and the DatabaseName.

ClickNextto move to the second page of the print wizard. This allows you to define whether the

output should go to a printer or to a text file. When the report is output to a text file the columns

are delimited by commas so that the file can be read into spreadsheet packages such as Excel

(*.cvs files). The columns are padded with tabs to allow viewing in a standard text editor. It is also

possible to output the report to a * .htm file to produce web pages.

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General

This tab allows you to define general information on all tools.

If you click OK, any changes made in this tabbed dialog are committed to the database. If you

clickCancel, all changes are ignored.

ToolDescription Enter a name for the tool that will readily identify it in the ToolStore list.

Comment Add any relevant notes. This field is passed to the toolchange and can ultimately be

output into the CNC code.

Units Specify whether the tools dimensions are measured in Inches or Millimetres.

ToolType Select the type of tool. Only appropriate tool types are displayed.

Jobs Provides a list of jobs this tool is associated to.

Spindle Direction Specify whether the spindle rotates clockwise (CLW) or counter-clockwise

(CCLW). The button graphics change, depending on whether the record refers to a milling or

turning tool.

Turret Position Specify the position that the tool occupies on the turret.

Tool Offset Specify the register for the tool length offset.

The Tool Offset option will only be loaded into EdgeCAM if the tool length offset modifier has

been activated in the code generator with a user variable on modifier 69. All code generators

created from the Code Wizard will have this modifier set up.

Specification This field contains a link to a document of any type. This document can contain

information, such as a tooling specification sheet to be used at the time of tool assembly. You can

link to a document by simply clicking on the browse button to the right of the text box. Open the

document by clicking on the Open icon which will be greyed out until a document has been

selected. The document type is not limited to word documents, for example you could use a .ppf

file.

Note that for Turning tools, you cannot change the spindle direction as it is a

function of the Hand of Tool (Geometry tab) and the loading of the tool (Mounting

tab).

Turret Position Specify the position that the tool occupies on the turret.

Tool Offset Specify the register for the tool length offset.

Note that the Tool Offset option will only be loaded into EdgeCAM if the tool lengthoffset modifier has been activated in the code generator with a user variable on

modifier 69. All code generators created from the Code Wizard will have this

modifier set up.

Default Priority- Assigns a sort priority to the toolchange and its associated

instructions. Rationalising by tool will then be performed by order of first use within

each priority group. All tools with the same priority will be sorted in order of first

use, followed by those with the next priority and so on in ascending numerical

order. In the Toochange dialog.(that you can open from the tool's entry in the

Instructions tab of the Browser) this value appears as the Sort Priority in the

More... tab.

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Visible in list Uncheck this box to make records invisible and to shorten the list of displayed

records.

See Also


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Geometry

The geometry page defines the dimensions of the tool. The gold portion indicates the cutting area

and the silver portion represents the shank of the tool. The following links provide specific help

pages for each of the different tool categories:

Milling Tool Geometry

Turning Tool GeometryDrilling Tool Geometry

Centre Cut When checked specifies that the tool can cut in a direction running along its axis

(such as a drill or slot drill). When unchecked specifies that the tool can only cut in a direction

perpendicular to the axis, or when ramping downwards.

Max Plunge Value This is the maximum distance that the tool can plunge while moving

sideways one tool diameter. This is specified in the units for the tool - Inches or Millimeters.

Through Coolant Whether the tool can pass coolant through internal channels. Note that your

code generator (.mcp etc file) will need to be configured to make use of this.

Graphic The name of the .csv file to be used to represent the tool and shank geometry. Use the

Browsebutton to search for existing user defined graphics files.

Press here to start an EdgeCAM session in tool definition mode for the creation of tool

graphics. If the specified .csv file exists it will be loaded into EdgeCAM, otherwise a new file will be

created containing a tool and shank outline equivalent to the parametrically defined shape from

the ToolStore.

See Also



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Milling Tool Geometry

Back to Geometry

This tab allows you to define tools that can be used in EdgeCAM Milling cycles and operations.

For Taper tools, you only need to define three of these four parameters: Diameter, Included Angle,

Flute Length and Small Diameter. The fourth parameter is calculated and displayed automatically.

If the tip radius is defined and only two out of the four parameters used for the taper definition(Diameter, Small Diameter, Included Angle or Flute Length) then the command assumes that the

tool is a ballnose. This completely defines the geometry.

For insert tools you could use the Flute Length to specify the height of the insert.

See AlsoChanging the Tool View


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Turning Tool Geometry

Back to Geometry

This tab allows you to define tools that can be used in EdgeCAM Turning cycles and operations.

StandardCode Shows the ISO or ANSI code for the Insert geometry. Define displays the codecontrol dialog. You can enter your code into the field before you press Define. When you press

Define this information is pulled through to the dialog.

Some parameters are mutually exclusive and only one needs to be defined. These are: Edge

Length or Inscribed Circle, Symbol or Included Angle, Side Angle or End Angle and finally TPI or

Pitch. The other parameter is automatically calculated and displayed.

Insert Thickness Specifies the insert thickness. This value is passed to the toolchange dialog

(User Graphics tab).

To define back-boring bars enter Side Angle so that it is greater than 180 degrees.

Below is an example turning tool. Your selected tool may look different depending on its type and dimensions.

Neutral tools are treated as right-handed tools.

See Also



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Turning Tool Orientation

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Drilling Tool Geometry

Back to Geometry

This tab allows you to define tools that can be used in EdgeCAM Milling and Turning cycles and

operations.

See Also



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Mounting

Gauge distances are entered inmachine tool space and thereforedepend on the orientation of the tool.

The cutting direction of the tool has ahigh priority and so if you change theHand of Tool (from the Geometrytab),the ToolStore maintains the currentorientation and inverts the Reversecheck box.

The panel controlling the orientation ofthe tool may have greyed outbuttons. This is because internal toolscan only be loaded axially or reverse-axially.

Orthogonal is probably the most widelyused Gauge Point, but other settings

have been provided if you want to usethem. Primary and Secondary areusually used for grooving, to ensurethat the side of the tool is up againstthe side of the groove.

See Also Changing the Tool View

Reach For mill tools this is the maximum depth of pocket the tool can safely cut. For parting and

grooving tools this is the maximum depth of groove the tool can safely cut.

Graphic The name of the .csv file to be used to represent the holder for this tool. If required,

the same holder may be used on multiple tools. Use the Browsebutton to search for existing user

defined graphics files.

Press here to start an EdgeCAM session in holder definition mode for the creation of holder

graphics. If the specified .csv file exists it will be loaded into EdgeCAM, otherwise a new file will be

created to contain the holder shape on completion.

Offset The offset distance(s) from Shank CPL to Holder CPL can be entered here. For milling

tools a Z offset is required, for turning X and Z. In the turning environment, the use of a Y value

will allow the holder graphic to be staggered in that direction from the shank.

See Also


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Allocation

Location Type in the location of the tool or press the Machine Toolbutton to select from a list

of available Code Generator files. You can type in any text string. However, if the tool is allocated

then the location should be the required Code Generator.

Assignment Use these buttons to make tools generally available in stores, allocate them to a

particular machine tool or make them unavailable.

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Technology

The Technology tab of all tools in the ToolStore provides direct access to Materialand Insert

records in the technology database. If you create a new tool, it should be properly defined before

moving to the Technology tab. Filters will be automatically applied to the records displayed

dependent upon the selected tool type.

To use Inserts in the ToolStoreTo use Materials in the ToolStore

Values loaded from the Technology database are shown "greyed out" as they cannot be directly

edited. These values are used by the system and are passed to EdgeCAM operations and cycles.

Rate This sliding scale allows you to adjust feed/speed values for relatively longer/shorter tool

life versus production rates. The nominal values stored in the database may be adjusted to suit

local requirements.

You can also specify default machining parameters for the tool under GeneralandFinishing

conditions. These parameters are passed to the relevant EdgeCAM operations and cycles.

Feedrate Specifies the default feed rate.

Plunge Feed Specifies the default plunge feed rate.

Speed Specifies the default spindle speed.

Depth Specifies the default depth to which the tool is to machine.

Depth of Cut values are passed to EdgeCAM cycles and are used in toolpath generation. If they are

used, then the values should be selected carefully to avoid problems with too fine or too coarse

settings.

If the Rateslider is used, then both General and Finish values are adjusted and these adjusted

values passed to EdgeCAM.

Specify the numeric value of the parameter, and the units in which the parameter is to be

measured. On loading the tool, these are converted to the current EdgeCAM units.

Please note that you can automatically round speeds and feeds on loading the tool into EdgeCAM

by checking the appropriate boxes on the Tool Libraries tab of the Preferences (Options menu)

dialog.

See Also Changing the Tool View

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Additional

In the additional tab you can enter and edit user numeric values and comment strings.

User Numeric 1 & 2are available when developing code generators as the variables

TSTOREUSER1 and TSTOREUSER2. As of the Version 8.50 release the Code Wizard support is

limited to the Advanced Turning 'adaptive' templates; the tokens are TSTORE_USER1 and

TSTORE_USER2.User String 1 & 2are available when developing code generators as the variables

STRTSTOREUSER1 and STRTSTOREUSER2. As of the Version 8.50 release the Code Wizard support

is currently limited to the Advanced Turning 'adaptive' templates; the tokens are

TSTORE_STRING1 and TSTORE_STRING2.

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To use Inserts in the ToolStore

Select the Browsebutton next to the Inserts drop down list.

Select the required insert.

The technology data for the selected insert is now assigned to that tool. The tooling parameters

specified, such as diameter and number of teeth, will be used to calculate feeds and speeds

required at the machine.

The cuttable materials will be available in a drop down list.

When selecting inserts from the ToolStore, only inserts meeting all requirements will be

presented by the filter mechanism. For solid tooling the number of teeth specified in the insert

record must match the number of teeth in the ToolStore geometry specification. Where used,

this same ruled is applied to diameter and diameter range parameters.

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To use Materials in the ToolStore

Set the insert selection to .

Press the Browsebutton next to the Material drop down list.

Select the required material.

Technology data can be entered for that tool when cutting the selected material. Once this data

has been entered, another material can be selected through the Browse option and more

technology entered.

If an insert record is subsequently linked to this tool, the directly entered data will be

overwritten if that insert has technology data for this material.

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Notes

This tab allows you to add any relevant notes, it can be used in conjunction with or instead of the

specification sheet option. These notes will also be displayed in the Job Reports pages.

Information stored in the Notesfield could include:

how the tool is assembled

where the tool or parts of the tool is located

any special considerations

Use the Subjectfield to include notes in the columns displayed in the tool list. Please note that

only the text in the Subject field not the whole of the Notes field will be displayed in the

column. The maximum number of characters for the text string is 40. Also see Configuring the

Display Columns.

Notes File This field contains a link to a document of any type. You can link to a document by

pressing the Browse button to the right of the text box. Open the document by clicking on the

Open icon which will be greyed out until a document has been selected.

ThePrintbutton at the bottom of the dialog opens a simple two-page wizard that lets you definethe report layout and where to print the report. For further information about printing the report,

seePrinting.

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Database Utilities

TheDatabase Utilitiescommand offers the following options:

Location Allows you to browse for the required ToolStore database file, e.g. Tstore.mdb

Where job instructions are held in a ToolStore database, they will be placed in a separate .mdb file

named after the base ToolStore file with a jbi_ prefix. When selecting a new ToolStore database

please ensure that you do not inadvertently select the jbi_ file.

Compact Compresses the current database to save disc space. Compressed database files can

still be used by the ToolStore applications.

Import Allows you to select another database and to import records from that into the current

database.Please note that this command only acts upon the main ToolStore database. Job instructions data

will not be imported.

After selection of the database file you will be presented with a number of options:

Import Technology Records(Default ON) Checking this box selects all materials,

standards, inserts and cutting data for import. Note that all records will be imported, both

visible and non-visible.

Import Toolkit Records(Default ON) Checking this box selects all job, tool and mounting

records for import. Note that all records will be imported, both visible and non-visible.

Overwrite existing duplicate records(Default OFF) Checking this box causes any records

with the same description as a record in the database being imported to be overwritten. If

unchecked, records with a duplicate description will not be imported.

You must take care that the two databases are compatible with one another. If two databases

having records that are different in some way but with identical descriptions are merged, then

other records in the database may now be linked to different data values. For example material

or insert records of the same description may connect to different speeds and feeds in a

technology record. Only the description field is compared to decide whether a record is a

duplicate.

Remove Imported Records from the Selected ToolStore(Default OFF) If this field is

checked then records successfully imported will be deleted from their original database. This

can be useful as a check that all records were taken across as any that were rejected, as

duplicates will be left in the database file. The backup will still contain everything that was in

the file before data transfer began.

Note that both databases will be automatically backed up BEFORE any data transfer takes place.

Backup Creates a backup copy of the current database. Note that this will be given a file name

constructed from the name of the current database and the date and time of the backup.

Restore Reloads the selected database into the application, replacing the one currently in use.

Note that this will result in any data entered since the last backup in this session being lost.

Alternatively, you can restore the database by deleting the unwanted database file and renaming

the backup copy to the original name.

When using the Backupand Restoreutilities, you must take extreme care to select the correct

ToolStore file to restore from. Use of an out-of-date backup file may result in more recent data

being lost. If a jbi_file is inadvertently selected no action will result.

For further information see Job Instructions.

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The ToolStore allows user defined graphics to be used to represent tools in machining sequences

within EdgeCAM. Where no user defined information is given a simple outline of the tool based on

its size parameters within the ToolStore will be used.

The shape(s) representing any part of the tool (cutter\shank\holder) may be made up of a

combination of arcs and straight-line segments.It is permissible for tools to be used without a holder graphic and for tools with cutting tip and

shank represented by standard parameterisation to have a user defined holder graphic.

Note that holder and tool names containing double-byte characters cannot be loaded into Verify.

Loading user defined graphics into Verify can slow down the simulation process and obscure the

material being cut. You can specify notto take user defined graphics into Verify by ensuring that

theOutput User Defined Graphicsoption on the Verify tab of the Preferences (Options menu)

dialog is unchecked.

To display tool holders, ensure that the Show Holderscommand is checked. You can select this

command by right-clicking on the title bar of the ToolStore dialog.

In addition, it is possible to import custom graphics to define the tool form.

File Location and Format

Within the ToolStore folder for EdgeCAM there are folders for Toolinggraphics and Holdergraphics.

Each of these has Turn, Mill and Hole sub folders. At the time of installation these folders hold a

number of example .csv files. As you create graphics files these will be added to the appropriate

folders by default.

The .csv files are text files containing EdgeCAM geometric entities in the form of a comma

separated list defining lines and arc segments. Where a depth or rotation has been applied to the

EdgeCAM profile this is also detailed in the file.

Tool and holder graphics are stored with pathnames relative to the ToolStore. If a ToolStore file is

moved or copied to a new folder its attendant graphics folders must also be moved. The folders

holding graphics information should always be placed within the folder holding the ToolStore

database.

See Also

CPLs Used

EdgeCAM Environments

The Tool Graphics Toolbar

Milling and Turning Tool Graphics

Gauge Distances

Custom Graphics

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CPLs Used

User defined graphics are based on three CPLs for the various elements of a tool.

The CUTTERGRAPHICS CPL is the datum of the cutting tool or insert. In milling the fluted part of

the tool, and in turning the insert is defined with reference to this CPL. Note that in turning this

CPL does not assume any side/end angle values for the insert.

The SHANKGRAPHICS CPL is offset from the CUTTERGRAPHICS CPL and is used as the origin pointfor shank details (whether defined by you or generated from standard parameters). In milling it is

offset in Z from the CUTTERGRAPHICS CPL by the flute length of the tool. In turning it is offset in

X and Z to lie at the centre mounting point of a standard insert.

The HOLDERGRAPHICS CPL is offset from the SHANKGRAPHICS CPL and represents the origin

point for geometry defining the holders. This might be the machine tool gauge point or other

convenient position on the holder.

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EdgeCAM Environments

When EdgeCAM is started from the ToolStore to define or modify tooling graphics it will

automatically be configured for tool or holder definition. There are three environments for tooling

definition:

Cutter CPL Cuttergraphic, Layer Cutter Graphic, colour Gold (colour 21)Shank CPL Shankgraphic, Layer Shank Graphic, colour Red (colour 17)

Holder CPL Holdergraphic, Layer Holder Graphic, colour White (colour 7)

These environments should always be used for the definition of tooling graphics without

modification as EdgeCAM uses them to differentiate between the various parts of a complete tool

unit. Geometry for the part being worked on will be shown in solid, other parts are shown dashed,

e.g. if EdgeCAM is started from the Mounting tab to create a holder then existing graphics showing

the tool and shank will be shown dashed.

Changes between environments should always be made using the toolbar buttons provided to

maintain the integrity of the geometry being created (see Tool Graphics Toolbar). Use of these

buttons will maintain the correct CPL, style, layer and colour to be used.

If EdgeCAM is started from the Geometry tab then all three environments are accessible. Entry

from the Mounting tab will only allow holders to be created or modified.

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The Tool Graphics Toolbar

Use the Tool Graphics toolbar in EdgeCAM to save data to a .csv file, change between

environments or return to the ToolStore.

From left to right the toolbar offers the following commands:

Save Tooling Graphics Save current data to .csv file(s).

Define Cutter Graphics Change to Cutter graphics environment

Define Shank Graphics Change to Shank graphics environment

Define Holder Graphics Change to holder graphics environment

Move Holder Graphics Specify a new position for the Holdergraphics CPL. If coordinate input is

used it will produce a position relative to the current CPL. Thus in the Holder environment the

move will be a relative move from the existing offset but in the Cutter or Shank environments a

new absolute offset is specified.

Go to ToolStore Save current data to .csv file(s), close EdgeCAM and return to the ToolStore.

No te s

The stored offset is always relative to Shankgraphics CPL irrespective of how the position of

the Holdergraphics CPL was defined.

If coordinate values for the CPL are entered, for milling a Y value is required. For turning X

and Z values must be given.

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Milling and Turning Tool Graphics

Milling toolsare defined by profiles created in the XY plane and rotated about the Y axis (which

corresponds to the tool axis) to form a 3D shape. This rotation is automatic but means that any

graphic created for milling cutter, shank or holder should be drawn in the positive XY quadrant of

the appropriate CPL. When the tooling graphics are used in an EdgeCAM sequence the various

elements will be correctly aligned along the tool axis (Z).

Turning toolgraphics are created in the XZ plane and are automatically extruded by the shank

thickness (defined in the ToolStore record) to create a 3D shape.

The following general limitations for both milling and turning tool graphics should be noted:

Tooling graphics geometry created in planes other than those designated above may not be

correctly rotated or extruded.

Tool graphics may only be built with arc and straight line segments.

Cutting tool offsets will always be calculated on the basis of the nominal tool dimensions. A

more complex user-defined graphic can be used, but only for visual collision checking.

Please note that concave profilesare not supported in Verify.

Note that holder and tool names containing double-byte characters cannot be loaded into Verify.

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Gauge Distances

The ToolStore does not automatically calculate gauge distances for tools since they may vary

according to mounting orientation and, in turning, the choice of gauge point. To help you

determine these parameters for any given tool/holder combination, points are generated at the

various CPL positions so that they may be verified with respect to any CPL in order to measure

their respective positions. Note that for turning inserts the point marked is the insert datum point

in the TURN CPL so as to allow for insert orientation.

If gauge distances are calculated and added to the ToolStore data you should take care that the

figures are still correct when loaded into a sequence, particularly if the tool orientation or gauge

point is altered.

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Custom Graphics

The following step-by-step instructions explain how to create tooling graphics based on existing

geometry stored in EdgeCAM readable part file format.

1. If EdgeCAM is not already running, select the EdgeCAMicon from the EdgeCAM program

group and start a worksession.

2. Open the file with your existing geometry (either designed in EdgeCAM or imported from

another file format, such as dwg, dxf, igs, etc.) and position the tool graphic, if necessary.

3. You will now need to specify the orientation of the tool graphic with respect to the Top CPL

(Milling) or relative to the Turn CPL (Turning).

4. Now generate a Shank/Holder Graphics CPL by pressing the appropriate button on the Tool

Graphics Toolbar.

If necessary, you are prompted to create the CPL if it does not exist already. You are prompted

to digitise the centre of the insert as datum for the Shank Graphics CPL. For the Holder

Graphics, the CPL is set to the joining point of the shank and holder, with the same orientation

as the Shank CPL.

If the Define Shank/Holder Graphic button is activated in the turn environment and the

Shank/Holder CPL is not present, you will be prompted to specify the turning tool orientation .

5. Select the geometry to define the Shank/Holder Graphics. Please note that only the outer

profiles will be written to the .csv files. You may also select standard geometry commands

(line, arc etc) to create the desired shank/holder.

6. To link the shank and holder graphics to an appropriate tool, select the Go to ToolStore

button. This saves the .csv files and opens the ToolStore application.

7. Select the appropriate tool and define the insert.

8. On the Mounting tab, link the saved .csv files to the tool. The distance between the Holder

Graphics CPL and Shank Graphics CPL is fed into the dialog as holder offset information (seediagram).

You can now use your custom tooling graphics in your machining sequences within EdgeCAM.

Please note that concave profiles are not supported in Verify.

Loading user defined graphics into Verify can slow down the simulation process and obscure the

material being cut. You can specify notto take user defined graphics into Verify by ensuring that

theOutput User Defined Graphicsoption on the Verify tab of the Preferences (Options menu)

dialog is unchecked.

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Defining Inserts

In the Turn environment, it is strongly recommended that you parametrically define the cutting

insert in the ToolStore. If you decide to use your own custom graphics you will be prompted to

specify the Cutter CPL manually. The orientation and position of this CPL are difficult to define.

Click below to see examples of Cutter Graphics CPL orientations and positions:

Shank and Cutter CPLs with respect to tool orientations

Shank and Cutter CPLs with respect to tool orientations groove tools

Shank and Cutter CPLs with respect to tool orientations threading tools

Cutter Graphic CPL orientations and positions

Please note that the toolpaths in EdgeCAM are calculated using the parametrically defined insert

geometry and not the user defined cutter graphics.

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Tool Graphic Orientation

Milling tools

The diagram below shows how milling tool custom graphics should be orientated and positioned

with respect to the Top CPL. It also shows the position of the Cutter, Shank and Holder CPLs.

Turning ToolsClick on the appropriate link to see how the custom tool graphic should be orientated relative to

the Turn CPL. The tool does not need to be translated onto the Turn CPL but it needs to be

orientated as shown in the diagrams. If the graphic is not orientated correctly the simulation of the

toolpaths in EdgeCAM will be incorrect.

Left-hand tool non-reversed or right-hand tool reversed

Right-hand tool non-reversed or left-hand tool reversed

Boring tool right-hand non-reversed or left-hand reversed

Boring tool left-hand non-reversed or right-hand reversed

External groove/parting left-hand non-reversed or right-hand reversed

External groove/parting right-hand non-reversed or left-hand reversed

Internal groove left-hand non-reversed or right-hand reversed

Internal groove right-hand non-reversed or left-hand reversed

External thread left-hand non-reversed or right-hand reversed

External thread right-hand non-reversed or left-hand reversed

Internal thread left-hand non-reversed or right-hand reversed

Internal thread right-hand non-reversed or left-hand reversed

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Context menu

Simply right click on the Toolspanel to call up the context menu.

Create, Edit, Delete, Copy These buttons allow you to add new records or modify/delete

existing records.

Print Allows you to print the contents of the current view panel as defined by the filter settings.

Select/Clear All Allows you to select all records in the active panel/clear the selection.

Filtering Open the filter dialog which lets you specify exactly how to limit the list of displayed

tools.

Columns Opens the Configure Columnsdialog which allows you to specify which columns will

be visible in the panel. Please note that this command has been moved from the system menu.

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CoroGuide Link

This link enables you to import tool data from the CoroGuide database into the EdgeCAM tooling

database via the ToolStore or ToolKitAssistant application. The data imported is primarily tool

geometry and it may be necessary to manually add mounting or tool kit information to the

imported data. In all cases the tool definition must be checked against your specific requirementsto ensure that the intended tool design has been achieved.

Data is exported from CoroGuide as .xml files which can be loaded singly or in groups to the

EdgeCAM ToolStore database.

The Coroguide Link imports tooling data from an external source. Pathtrace Engineering

Systems Ltd. have no control over the content of this external database and it is the

user's responsibility to ensure that any imported data is correct for his purposes.

CoroGuide is a registered mark of Sandvik Coromant.

CoroGuide Link Settings

The CoroGuide software does not create a registry entry so the user must select its location at thetime of first use. When the CoroGuide launch button is used for the first time you will be asked to

browse for the location.

TheCoroGuidecommand in the system menu (right-mouse click on the title bar of the ToolStoreor ToolKit Assistant dialog) offers several options that allow you to activate/deactivate the

CoroGuide link and specify the program and data file locations.

CoroGuide Program Location Allows you to browse for the CoroGuide executable to be used

when the Launch button is pressed. Note that this button is greyed out until the selection has been

made.

CoroGuide Data Files Location Allows you to browse for the CoroGuide folder where .xml data

files will be created. Note that this location may be accessed on a remote machine over the

network.

Enable/Disable CoroGuide Check this option (as appropriate) to activate/deactivate the

CoroGuide link. Please note that the CoroGuide Launch and Import buttons will not be visible if the

link has been disabled.

Launching CoroGuide

When the Launchbutton in the ToolStore or ToolKit Assistant dialog is sel

tool store

Documents