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What’s New in CAMWorks 2018
Geometric Americas Inc. makes no warranties, either expressed or implied with respect to this
document. Geometric reserves the right to revise and improve products as it sees fit, and to revise
the specifications and information contained herein without prior notice. Due to continuing product
development, specifications and capabilities described in this document are subject to change
without notice.
Copyright© 2017 Geometric Americas Inc. All Rights Reserved.
December 2017
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
2
Table of Contents (Click a link below or use the bookmarks on the left.)
What’s New in CAMWorks 2018 – SP1 3 Supported Platforms 3 Resolved CPR’s document 3 Supported MS Access Versions for Technology Database 3
What’s New in CAMWorks 2018 – SP0 4 Supported Platforms 4 Resolved CPR’s document 4 Supported MS Access Versions for Technology Database 4
General ......................................................................................................................... 5 CAMWorks NC Editor for viewing/editing post-processed G-code 5 Improved Workflow for inserting new operations interactively 7 Simplified Rebuild Process that eliminates User intervention 9 Option to save default Operation Parameters from CAMWorks User Interface 10 Aligning Bounding Box stock for Mill/ Wire EDM with a Coordinate System 12 Simulation Toolbar revamped to Toolpath simulation Property Manager Page 13
Mill ............................................................................................................................... 14 Improved Part Perimeter Feature Definition dialog box 14 Mill Feature Recognition in increasing order of Z level depth 15 ‘Sort Features’ Command to sequence Mill Feature Types and Instances 17 Subroutine options on the Posting tab of Machine node 18 Enhancements to VoluMill Toolpaths 19 Option to choose output order of toolpaths in Assembly mode in Setup tab of Machine Node 22 Option for Mirroring Toolpaths at Mill Part Setup Level 24 Assigning Max Feedrate of machine as Feedrate for Non-cutting Moves of VoluMill Toolpaths 26 Defining Curve Projection Direction for Multiaxis Mill Operations 27 Additional options in Entry/Retract Tab for Multiaxis Operations 28 New option for Front Shift parameter in Axis Control Tab for Multiaxis operations 30 Side Extensions parameters for Extend/Trim in Finish Tab for Multiaxis operations 31 Advanced 3 Axis Toolpath Generation Method 32 Preview images that graphically represent Point to Point & 2.5 Axis Mill Operation Parameters 35 Preview images that graphically represent 3 Axis Mill Operation Parameters 37
Turn/Mill-Turn ............................................................................................................ 39 Defining User Defined Turn Inserts from a SOLIDWORKS part or component part of an Assembly 39 Defining User Defined Turn Holders/ Boring Bars from a part or Assembly Components 41 Defining Coordinate Systems for Main and Sub Spindle from Machine Node itself 43 Generate Turn Finish toolpaths based on program point of the insert 46 Preview images that graphically represent Turn Operation Parameters 48
Technology Database ............................................................................................... 50 New User Interface option for TechDB 50 SQLite Database type now supported for TechDB 51 Assigning Tapping operation to Hole features in Features & Operations Form of TechDB 53
API’s and Macro introduced in CAMWorks 2018 ................................................... 54
License ....................................................................................................................... 55 Customized Post Processors with embedded License information and Expiry Date 55 Data Portability between Higher and Lower Capability licenses 56
CAMWorks Virtual Machine ...................................................................................... 57 Enhancements to CAMWorks Virtual Machine 57
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
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What’s New in CAMWorks 2018 – SP1
Supported Platforms
Supported Platforms for 64-bit
Solid Modeler:
The 64-bit version of:
- SOLIDWORKS 2018
- SOLIDWORKS 2017
- CAMWorks Solids 2018
- CAMWorks Solids 2017
Operating
System:
64-bit version of:
- Windows 10
- Windows 8.1
- Windows 7 (SP1 or higher)
[*Home Editions are not supported]
Note: CAMWorks 2018 is supported only on 64-bit Operating systems.
Resolved CPR’s document
Purpose:
The Resolved CPR (CAMWorks Problem Report) document has been updated
to report the software errors that have been resolved in the current Service
Pack (SP1).
Implementation: To view the document, select:
Start>>All Programs>>CAMWorks2018x64>>Resolved CPR’s.
Supported MS Access Versions for Technology Database
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, the Technology Database is supported on three Database
types viz. SQLite, Microsoft Access and SQL Server. If you use Microsoft Access based TechDB as
your database type of choice for accessing information in the TechDB, then a Full or Runtime version of MS Access must be installed on the system for running the database.
The TechDB is supported on both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Microsoft Access, although 64-bit
version of MS Access is recommended.
The CAMWorks Technology Database is supported on the following versions of Microsoft Access:
MS Access 2010 SP2 (32-bit and 64-bit versions)
MS Access 2013 SP1 (32-bit and 64-bit versions)
MS Office 365 with Office 2013 (32-bit and 64-bit versions)
MS Access 2016 SP1 (32-bit and 64-bit versions)
MS Office 365 with Office 2016 (32-bit and 64-bit versions)
Note: MS Access 2007 version is no longer supported from CAMWorks 2018 version onwards.
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
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What’s New in CAMWorks 2018 – SP0
Supported Platforms
Supported Platforms for 64-bit
Solid Modeler:
The 64-bit version of:
- SOLIDWORKS 2018
- SOLIDWORKS 2017
- CAMWorks Solids 2017
Operating
System:
64-bit version of:
- Windows 10
- Windows 8.1
- Windows 7 (SP1 or higher)
[*Home Editions are not supported]
Note: CAMWorks 2018 is supported only on 64-bit Operating systems.
CAMWorks Solids 2018 will be available when released.
Resolved CPR’s document
Purpose:
The Resolved CPR (CAMWorks Problem Report) document has been updated
to report the software errors that have been resolved in the current Service
Pack (SP0).
Implementation: To view the document, select:
Start>>All Programs>>CAMWorks2018x64>>Resolved CPR’s.
Supported MS Access Versions for Technology Database
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, the Technology Database is supported on three Database
types viz. SQLite, Microsoft Access and SQL Server. If you use Microsoft Access based TechDB as
your database type of choice for accessing information in the TechDB, then a Full or Runtime version of MS Access must be installed on the system for running the database.
The TechDB is supported on both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Microsoft Access, although 64-bit
version of MS Access is recommended.
The CAMWorks Technology Database is supported on the following versions of Microsoft Access:
MS Access 2010 SP2 (32-bit and 64-bit versions)
MS Access 2013 SP1 (32-bit and 64-bit versions)
MS Office 365 with Office 2013 (32-bit and 64-bit versions)
MS Access 2016 SP1 (32-bit and 64-bit versions)
MS Office 365 with Office 2016 (32-bit and 64-bit versions)
Note: MS Access 2007 version is no longer supported from CAMWorks 2018 version onwards.
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
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General CAMWorks NC Editor for viewing/editing post-processed G-code
Purpose:
Provide an in-built NC Editor application to view/edit post-processed G-code
Implementation:
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, an inbuilt NC Editor application (viz. CAMWorks NC Editor) is
automatically installed along with the CAMWorks application. You can choose to view the G-Code
generated on post-processing in this NC Editor app. To do so, ensure the following two conditions
are fulfilled:
a. The Open G-code file in CAMWorks NC Editor checkbox option in File Locations tab of CAMWorks
Options dialog box is checked.
b. The Open G-code file in checkbox option in the Post Process dialog box is checked. (This
checkbox option gets unchecked if the Run machine simulation option in Post Process dialog box
is checked.).
In case you wish to view generated G-code in any other NC Editor application, then choose the Open
G-code file in following application checkbox option in the File Locations tab and use the Browse
button to select the desired application.
If you do not wish to view the generated G-code file in any NC Editor application, then ensure that both the Open G-code file in CAMWorks NC Editor and Open G-code file in following application
checkbox options remain unchecked.
‘Open G-code file in CAMWorks NC Editor’ checkbox option in ‘File Locations’ tab
New -
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
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‘Open G-Code file in’ option within Post Process dialog box
Salient Features of the CAMWorks NC Editor:
i. Comprehensive set of essential editing tools necessary for meeting the demands of modern CNC
program editing
ii. Multi-pane tabbed layout
iii. Dynamic toolbars and menus
iv. Enhanced and intelligent file compare utility
v. Reengineered graphical backplotter with dynamic zoom, pan, rotate and measuring functions to
analyze the plots
vi. CNC code specific options such as line numbering / renumbering, character handling and XYZ
range finder
vii. Math functions including basic math, rotate, mirror, tool compensation, and translate
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
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Improved Workflow for inserting new operations interactively
Purpose:
To provide an improved interface for the user to easily insert a new operation interactively. The
primary parameter viz. Operation type, Feature type or Tool intuitively lists the associated
parameters.
Implementation:
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards,
when the command to interactively insert a new operation is executed, the New
Operation dialog box displayed will contain
three different tabs - one each for
operation, tool and feature.
a. The Operation tab
contains all the relevant
parameters related to
operation type. viz.
Operation type, Operation
default parameters and
options.
b. The Tool tab contains
parameters to create a
new tool or select an
existing tool from the
active tool crib.
Alternatively, the user can
select the tool from an
existing operation
parameter set.
c. The Features tab has
parameters to either
create a new feature to
be associated with the
operation or to select an
existing feature from the CAMWorks Feature Tree
list.
Depending upon the primary selection of
Operation type or Feature, the remaining
parameters will be intuitively listed by
CAMWorks.
The improvisation in the workflow of the New Operation dialog box has been
implemented for all Mill, Turn and Wire
EDM operations. Note that for Wire-EDM operations, the New Operation dialog box
will have only the Operation tab and
Feature tab as tools are not used in Wire
EDM operations.
Operation tab in New Operation dialog box
Improved -
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
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Tool tab in New Operation dialog box Feature tab in New Operation dialog box
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
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Simplified Rebuild Process that eliminates User intervention
Purpose: To simplify the Rebuild process by eliminating the need for the user to decide whether a Light Rebuild or Full Rebuild option is to be chosen when
there are changes made to the part/assembly design.
Implementation:
One of the unique features of CAMWorks is the ability to regenerate the CAM data depending
upon the design changes made to the part or the assembly. This associative action is done through the CAMWorks Rebuild process.
In previous versions of CAMWorks, whenever there were design changes made to a part or
Assembly, CAMWorks would display a message prompting the user to execute either a Full Rebuild
(rebuilds machining data for both automatically recognized features and interactively inserted features) or Light Rebuild (rebuilds machining data only interactively inserted features).
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, the Rebuild process has been improvised. Whenever there
will be design changes to a solid part or Assembly under consideration, CAMWorks will reanalyze
the CAM data present in the part and display appropriate message for rebuilding the CAM data in the part/assembly.
- If the design changes made affect automatically recognized features and interactively
inserted features, then a message to fully rebuild the features will be displayed.
Message Prompted for Full Rebuild
- If design changes made to the part affect only interactively inserted features (and not any
of the AFR features, even if they are present in the Feature tree), then a message to
rebuild the CAMWorks data will be displayed.
Message prompted for Light Rebuild
In both the messages, clicking on the OK button will Rebuild the CAMWorks data while clicking on
the Cancel button will prevent rebuilding of the machining data.
Improved -
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
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Option to save default Operation Parameters from CAMWorks User Interface
Purpose: To allow users to save default Operation Parameters for all Operations from the
CAMWorks User Interface to the Technology Database and load saved default
Operation Parameters from TechDB
Implementation:
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, for all operations, the options to save default parameters
to the TechDB and load default operation parameters from the TechDB will be provided in the following tabs:
Optimize tab (for 2.5 Axis Operations)
Statistics tab (for 3 Axis operations, Multiaxis Mill operations and Turn operations)
Posting tab (For Wire EDM operations)
Process to save default parameters:
a. Modify the existing parameters of the operation as per requirement.
b. In the Optimize/Statistics/Posting tab, select Save as Defaults.
c. The Default Operation Parameters-Save As dialog box will be displayed. Using this dialog box
to either create a new default parameter set or overwrite an existing default parameter set.
Which Operation parameters will be saved as default parameters
Only parameters on the F/S tab, Operation tab (Rough Mill, Contour Mill etc.), NC tab, Feature
Options tab, Advanced tab, Leadin tab and Optimize tab will be saved. The Tool parameters will not be saved.
Process to load default parameters for current operation:
a. In the Optimize/Statistics/Posting tab, select Load Defaults.
b. The Default Operation Parameters-Load dialog box will be displayed. Select the name of the
default parameters set to be loaded and click OK.
‘Save as defaults’ and ‘Load defaults’ commands in RMB context menu of an Operation
Improved -
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
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Commands to Save or Load Default Operation Parameters
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
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Aligning Bounding Box stock for Mill/ Wire EDM with a Coordinate System
Purpose: To allow user to orient the Bounding Box stock by selecting a desired
Coordinate System in Mill mode and Wire EDM mode
Implementation:
In previous versions of CAMWorks, the
Stock of type Bounding Box was always
oriented with respect to the default
Coordinate System of the solid part/assembly under consideration.
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards,
when defining the Bounding Box stock,
users can select the desired Coordinate
System to orient the stock. This is provided in the form of Coordinate System
dropdown list in the Stock Manager dialog
box. This Coordinate System dropdown list
will provide following options to orient the
bonding box:
- Part Origin (Default selection in absence
of FCS option)
- Default Coordinate System
- Any other user-defined Coordinate Systems
- Fixture Coordinate System (If present,
this will be the default selection)
- Assembly Origin (Option available only in
Assembly mode) (This will be default selection in absence of FCS.)
- Part Origin of each individual part in the
Assembly (option available only in
Assembly mode)
If a User Defined Coordinate System is
used to define the orientation and is later
deleted, then a Rebuild message will be
prompted and the Bounding Box stock will be reset to the default Coordinate System.
Stock Manager dialog box
Improved -
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
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Simulation Toolbar revamped to Toolpath simulation Property Manager Page
Purpose: To order uniformity across the various User Interfaces in CAMWorks, The Simulate Toolpath toolbar has been converted to Toolpath Simulation
Property Manager Page.
Implementation:
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, whenever the Simulate Toolpath command is executed, the
Toolpath Simulation Property Manager Page will be displayed instead of the Simulate Toolpath toolbar.
This new Property Manager Page will be available in Mill, Turn, Mill-Turn and wire-EDM machining
modes.
Grouping of parameters
The order of the parameters within the group boxes too has been updated. Parameters have been grouped on the basis of the following:
Navigation
Display Options
Options
Information
Renaming of existing parameters
The following parameter has been renamed:
Show Animation buttons have been renamed to Update display at buttons.
Additional parameters introduced
In the Information group box, the read-only parameters Operation and Tool will provide
corresponding details of the current operation being simulated.
Toolpath Simulation in Mill mode Toolpath Simulation in Turn mode
Improved -
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
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Mill Improved Part Perimeter Feature Definition dialog box
Purpose:
- Provide options to define the End Conditions for a Part Perimeter feature
being interactively inserted
- Provision to modify Feature Strategy and End Conditions parameters for
existing Part Perimeter features
Implementation:
In previous versions of CAMWorks, there was no provision within the
Perimeter Feature dialog box to define End Conditions of the feature.
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, the End Conditions group box has
been introduced in this dialog box, thereby enabling the user to define
depth parameters for this feature. - If the End Condition Type is set to Bottom of the Stock, Top of the part or
Bottom of the part, then CAMWorks automatically calculates the feature
depth and displays it in the Depth parameter field. If required, this
feature depth can be changed by a desired amount by specifying the
offset value in the Offset parameter field. Negative values can be used to
reverse the offset. - If the End Condition Type is set to Blind, then the Offset parameter field
can be used to specify the feature depth. The Offset value assigned must
be greater than zero. - If any of the Feature Strategy or End Condition parameters within this
dialog box are modified when editing an existing Part Perimeter Feature
for which operations and toolpaths have been generated, then the
associated toolpaths will be automatically updated.
Improved Perimeter Feature dialog box
Improved -
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
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Mill Feature Recognition in increasing order of Z level depth
Purpose: To list Mill Features recognized using Automatic Feature Recognition in a
particular order based on Feature type and increasing level of Z depth.
Implementation:
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, when the Extract Machinable
Features command will be executed, Mill features recognized will be listed
across various Mill Part Setups in the CAMWorks Feature tree in the
following order based on increasing Z level depth:
Face Feature
Perimeter Feature
Open Pocket Feature
Non-hole features in increasing Z order
Hole features in increasing Z order
Improved -
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
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What's New in CAMWorks 2018
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‘Sort Features’ Command to sequence Mill Feature Types and Instances
Purpose:
To provide a functionality to sequence mill feature types and instances in increasing or
decreasing order of Z level depth
Implementation:
When the Extract Machinable Features
command is executed, Mill features recognized
will be listed across various Mill Part Setups in
the CAMWorks Feature tree in a the order
based on increasing Z level depth.
The Sort Features command newly introduced from CAMWorks 2018 version onwards can be
used sequence mill feature types and then sort
feature instances of this sequenced feature
types in increasing or decreasing order of Z
level depth. This command is available in the
RMB context menu of the following: Machine node in the Feature tree
Mill Part Setups in the Feature tree
Feature Manager node under each part in the Feature tree (Assembly mode only)
Once Mill features have been recognized using Automatic Feature Recognition and/or
interactively inserted, executing the Sort
Features command displays the Feature Sort
dialog box.
Use this dialog box to sequence the feature
types present in the Mill Part Setups in desired
order.
Use the Move Up or Move Down buttons
to change the order of the selected feature
type.
To sort features instances of the selected
feature type in increasing or decreasing Z
level depth within a Mill Part Setup, use the
Sort features in ascending Z order or Sort
features in descending Z order button.
The sequence defined for the feature types can be saved as a default setting using the Set as
Default button command. Such a default setting
can be loaded at any point of time during
sequencing and sorting within the dialog box using the Load Default button command.
Sort Features Command
Feature Sort Dialog Box
New -
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
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Subroutine options on the Posting tab of Machine node
Purpose: To provide the functionality of outputting G-codes in Subroutines format in
Part mode in addition to the existing Assembly mode.
Implementation:
In Assembly mode of previous versions of CAMWorks, users could set the G-code format to Subroutines in the Manage Parts dialog box.
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, this functionality has been
extended to Part mode too. The User Interface for this functionality has been shifted from Manage Parts dialog box to Posting tab of Machine node.
A new checkbox option Output subroutines for part instances and feature
patterns has been added in the Posting tab. This checkbox option will be
enabled only the Machine type is set to Mill.
When this checkbox option is checked:
In Assembly mode, toolpaths will be posted using Output
subroutines for both part instances and feature patterns.
In Part mode, toolpaths will be posted using Output subroutines only
for feature patterns.
TechDB default settings for this checkbox option can be set in the General
tab of the Mill Machine Parameters Form.
Posting tab of Machine Node
Improved -
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
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General tab of Mill Machine Parameters Form
Enhancements to VoluMill Toolpaths
Purpose: Latest version of VoluMill incorporated in CAMWorks to provide a host of
improvements/enhancements.
Enhancements #1: Support for Features with Tapers and Fillets
In previous versions on CAMWorks, VoluMill toolpaths could not be generated for features with
tapers or fillets. From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, this limitation has been removed and
VoluMill toolpaths can be generated for such features.
VoluMill Toolpath generated for a Pocket feature with taper
Improved -
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
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Enhancements #2: Assign separate feed rate for non-cutting plunge moves in Z Axis
direction
In the F/S (Feed/Speed) tab of the Operation Parameters dialog box, a new parameter Non-cutting
high Z plunge feedrate has been introduced.
This parameter, which determines the feedrate for non-cutting plunge moves in Z Axis direction,
is enabled only when the following conditions are fulfilled:
a. Pattern in the Roughing tab of the Rough Mill Operation Parameters dialog box is set to
VoluMill.
b. Entry method in the VoluMill Settings dialog box is set to Pre-Drilled Holes.
‘Non-cutting high z plunge feedrate’ parameter in F/S tab in Operation Parameters dialog box
Options for assigning feedrate values to ‘Non-cutting high Z plunge feed rate’ parameter
The following two options are available for assigning feedrate values to this parameter:
Option 1: Machine Max. Feedrate
This is the default option selected within the dropdown list adjacent to the Non-cutting high Z plunge
feedrate parameter. When this option is selected, the Non-cutting high Z plunge feedrate parametric
field will be disabled and will display a value equal to the maximum feedrate of the machine.
Option 2: User Defined Feedrate
Selecting this option within the dropdown list adjacent to the Non-cutting high Z plunge feedrate
parameter enables you to assign a user-defined non-cutting high Z plunge feedrate. When this option is selected, the Non-cutting high Z plunge feedrate field in this tab will be enabled. Use this
field to assign a desired non-cutting high Z plunge feedrate value.
Note:
The non-cutting high z plunge feedrate value assigned in this field cannot exceed the max
feedrate of the machine.
The default values for this parameter can be assigned in the F/S tab for Rough Mill operations
within the Technology Database.
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
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Enhancements #3: Improved Corner Smoothening
As VoluMill toolpaths use high speed and feed rates, avoiding drastic changes in direction (sharp
corners) is recommended in order to prevent wear and tear to the tools.
In previous versions of CAMWorks, in the VoluMill Settings dialog box, the Avoid sharp corners for
repositioning checkbox option was provided for this purpose. When checked, the areas of the
VoluMill toolpath with drastic direction changes were smoothened out.
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, this functionality remains the same. However, the corner
smoothening process has been refined further.
VoluMill Toolpath in previous CAMWorks versions when ‘Avoid sharp corners for repositioning’ option is checked
VoluMill Toolpath in CAMWorks 2018 version when ‘Avoid sharp corners for repositioning’ option is checked
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
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Option to choose output order of toolpaths in Assembly mode in Setup tab of Machine Node
Purpose: To provide easier access to the functionality (for options to Post Process
toolpaths in required order in Assembly mode) in the Setup tab of Machine
node.
Implementation:
In Assembly mode of CAMWorks, toolpaths can be post processed in an
order that is different from their order in the CAMWorks Operation tree.
Toolpaths can be alternatively post processed in a sequence based on one
of the following options:
Tool: When this option is selected, starting with the first feature, for
consecutive operations using the same tool, all toolpaths machined
by the tool will be post processed on one part and the same
sequence will be repeated for other part instances of the assembly.
Feature: When this option is selected, toolpaths on each instance of
a feature on all part instances will be post processed before moving
on to the next feature.
Part: When this option is selected, all the toolpaths on a part will be
post processed before moving on to the next part.
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, this functionality has been shifted
to the Setup tab of the Machine node. The selection made in the Setup tab
for post processing sequence for the parts of the assembly in this tab will
be reflected in the Sort Operations dialog box.
Selection made for ‘Output multiple parts by’ reflected in Sort Operation dialog box
Improved -
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
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‘Output multiple parts by’ option introduced in Setup tab of Machine node
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
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Option for Mirroring Toolpaths at Mill Part Setup Level
Purpose: To provide the parameters for mirroring toolpaths at the Mill Part Setup
level in addition to the existing individual Operation level
Implementation: In previous versions of CAMWorks, the functionality to Mirror toolpaths was available only at the
individual Operation level in Advanced tab of the operation in the form of Mirror toolpath parameters.
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, the functionality to mirror toolpaths in Mill mode has also
been made available at Mill Part Setup level. The parameters for mirroring toolpaths are present
on the Advanced tab of the Part Setup Parameters dialog box and Operation Parameters dialog box
respectively.
- After assigning values to the Mirror Toolpath parameters in the Advanced tab of the Part
Setup Parameters dialog box, if the Apply Mirror Transform to All command is executed, then
for all operations under that Mill Setup, the parameters associated with the Mirror toolpath functionality in their Advanced tab will be populated with corresponding values defined in the
Advanced Tab of Part Setup Parameters dialog box.
- For a specific operation under a Mill Part Setup, if you wish to assign values to the Mirror Toolpath parameters that are different from the globally defined values, then uncheck the Use
Setup Definition option. This action will enable all the Mirror Toolpath parameters in this tab.
Proceed to assign values to the Mirror toolpath parameters as desired.
Mirror Toolpath Parameters in Advanced Tab of Part Setup Parameters dialog box
Improved -
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
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Mirror Toolpath Parameters in Advanced Tab of Operation Parameters dialog box
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
26
Assigning Max Feedrate of machine as Feedrate for Non-cutting Moves of VoluMill Toolpaths
Purpose: To have an option whereby user can select Max. Feedrate of the machine or
a User Defined feedrate as the feedrate for non-cutting moves in VoluMill
toolpaths.
Implementation
In previous versions of CAMWorks, for VoluMill toolpaths, the High Feedrate parameter in the
VoluMill Settings dialog box was used for assigning feedrate to non-cutting moves while
repositioning the tool.
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, this parameter has been removed from the VoluMill
Settings dialog box. In its place, a new parameter Non-cutting high feedrate, has been made
available in F/S tab of Rough Mill operations and Area Clearance operations with VoluMill pattern.
The Non-cutting high feedrate is the feedrate at which repositioning moves within the toolpath
occur, other than those that take place at Rapid plane above the part. Since VoluMill drives the
tool in a manner that controls the material removal rate, it is typically necessary to reposition the
tool from the end of one cut to the beginning of the next by moving it through an already-
machined area. Setting this value higher than the programmed cutting feed rate helps minimize
cycle time.
You can either select the default option of Machine Max. Feedrate or assign a User Defined Feedrate
in the Non-cutting high feedrate field.
Non-cutting high feedrate parameter in F/S tab
New -
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
27
Defining Curve Projection Direction for Multiaxis Mill Operations
Purpose: To provide options to determine the Curve Projection direction of Multiaxis (5 Axis) Operations with Pattern set to Curve Projection
Implementation:
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, for 5 Axis Operations, when Pattern is set to Curve
Projection in the Pattern tab, a new parameter named Projection Direction will be enabled. This
dropdown list provides two options for direction of curve projection viz. Normal to Surface and Z
Axis.
Note: The Max. projection dist parameter will be disabled when Z Axis is selected as the Projection
Direction.
Projection direction set as ‘Normal to Surface’ in Pattern tab of Multiaxis Mill Operation
Projection direction set as ‘Z Axis’ in Pattern tab of Multiaxis Mill Operation
New -
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
28
Additional options in Entry/Retract Tab for Multiaxis Operations
Purpose:
To provide additional options in the Entry/Retract tab for multiaxis operations
Implementation:
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, in the Entry/Retract tab for multiaxis operations, the
following additional parameters/options are available:
‘Automatic’ option for Clearance Type
For Clearance Type, an additional option Automatic is now available. When set to Automatic,
CAMWorks will automatically determines the Clearance type, position and dimension. The most
suitable setting for each pattern will be maintained.
Automatic option for Clearance Type in Entry/Retract Tab of Multiaxis Operations
‘Keep initial orientation until distance option’ in Distances group box
In the Distances group box, the Keep initial orientation until distance option becomes available
when the Clearance Type is set to Plane in Z, Plane in X or Plane in Y. This parameter affects the
toolpath motion when moving to/from the Clearance plane. When the checkbox against this
parameter is checked, the tool maintains it's initial (tool axis controlled) orientation while
approaching and entering the clearance area. This orientation will be kept up to the user-specified
distance from the part before changing to the clearance orientation.
‘Rapid length in Tool plane’ and ‘Plane Angle’ in Distances group box
In the Distances group box, the Rapid length in tool plane option has been introduced. When this
option is enabled, the rapid length (including the feed length) can be applied in the tool plane
instead of the tool axis plane. This option can be used for machining with undercut tools, e.g. a
slot mill, where the engagement is usually from the side and axial retractions are not wanted.
The Plane angle parameter is used in conjunction with Rapid length in tool plane and enabled only
when the Rapid length in tool plane option is checked. Enter an incremental plane angle in this field
to rotate the parallel lead about the tool plane.
New -
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
29
‘Vertical Profile Ramp’ and ‘Automatic Arc’ options for Leadin/Leadout types
For Leadin/Leadout type, two new options viz. Vertical Profile Ramp and Automatic Arc have been
introduced.
- Vertical Profile Ramp is similar to the existing Reverse Vertical Profile Ramp with the only
difference being that the lead will enter/exit in the same direction as the closed contour path.
- The Automatic Arc consists of two splines controlled by the Arc Radius parameter. The first
spline leaves the surface tangentially in the surface normal direction, similar to a tangential
arc. The second spline connects tangentially into the plunge/retract motion using the tool axis
tilting orientation. In the event of a collision, CAMWorks will regenerate the tangent splines using the Minimum arc radius in order to avoid a collision.
New parameters in Entry/Retract tab of Multiaxis Operations
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New option for Front Shift parameter in Axis Control Tab for Multiaxis operations
Purpose: To provide option to gradually shift the tool’s contact point as it moves along the
contour of a multiaxis toolpath
Implementation:
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, in the Axis Control tab of multiaxis operations, the newly
introduced Gradual To option will be available for the Front Shift parameter when Contact Point is
set to At User Given Point (This option is not available when the current tool is set to ballnose).
‘To’ option for Front Shift parameter when Contact Point is set to ‘At User Given Point’
The To parameter can be used to shift the tool’s contact point as it moves along the contour. This
parameter can be ideally used for a polishing process, where, at the beginning of the machining
process, the tool sits on the front, and at the end, it runs on the heel.
‘To’ parameter in Axis Control Tab of Multiaxis Operations
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Side Extensions parameters for Extend/Trim in Finish Tab for Multiaxis operations
Purpose: To provide options to determine the Curve Projection direction of Multiaxis (5 Axis) Operations with Pattern set to Curve Projection
Implementation:
For multiaxis operations, when the Browse button in the Options group box of the Finish tab is
clicked, the Extend / Trim dialog box is displayed. From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, the
following modifications/additions are available within this dialog box:
Existing Parameters
The existing parameters have been grouped under the group box Tangent Extensions.
New Parameters
New parameters have been added under the group box named Side Extensions.
Use the parameters within the Side Extensions group box to extend the machining area beyond
the actual drive surface to the sides of the main pattern. (This means that new cuts will be added
before the first and after the last cut.)
Use the Start and End options within this group box to extend the start and end of the surface.
The length can be input in the associated fields either as a percentage of the tool diameter or as a
fixed value.
Extend / Trim dialog box
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Advanced 3 Axis Toolpath Generation Method
Purpose:
To provide next generation method for generating 3 Axis toolpaths
Implementation:
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, users can opt to generate 3 Axis toolpaths using either the
existing method (Previous Method) or the newly introduced next generation method (Advanced
Method).
By default, all toolpaths will be generated using the existing method (.i.e. Previous Method).
Settings need to be changed in order to use the next generation method.
Steps to change the 3 Axis Toolpath Generation Method:
Open the CAMWorks Options dialog box and go the Update tab.
In the 3 axis toolpath generation method, select Advanced Method.
Click OK to apply the settings and close the dialog box.
All 3 Axis toolpaths generated after these settings take effect will be generated using the Advanced Method.
Selecting ‘Advaced method’ in ‘Update’ tab of CAMWorks Options dialog box
Key enhancements in Advanced 3 Axis Toolpath Generation Method
Support for scallops for Area Clearance/ Z level
Area clearance and Z level operations have been enhanced to include option for defining Z depth moves based on scallop height. Also included is an option to Hit flats which ensures that flat faces
perpendicular to the tool axis will be cleaned up.
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Support for Custom Tools
The Advanced Method for toolpath generation includes support for custom tool profiles. Toolpath
will be generated based on the actual custom tool geometry rather than the cut diameter/flute length values from the Tool definition page.
Better arc fitting (both 2D and 3D)
For circular part using arc fitting, the entire circle can now be generated. For Pattern Project
operations, arc fitting has been improved for G18/G19 arcs.
3D Stepover in Pattern Project
3D stepover is now available when using flowline between curves in pattern project toolpaths.
What's New in CAMWorks 2018
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Bottom up Machining of Z level
On Z level operations, an option is provided to allow toolpaths to start at the bottom of the part
and move up the part.
Spike removal in Z level helical patterns
In the Previous Method for toolpath generation, there was a tendency for the toolpath to generate
with spikes in Z level when using a helical pattern. With Advanced Method for toolpath generation,
these spikes are not observed.
Previous Method Advanced Method
Improved Rest Machining
The improved Rest machining, when applied to Constant Stepover and Area Clearance, supports
an advanced algorithm that determines the material needed to be removed in regions and lend itself to the ability to keep the tool in the region. The Advanced Method for toolpath generation
supports staydown machining versus the Previous Method for toolpath generation which can
produce many open paths and rapid movements.
Previous Method Advanced Method
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Preview images that graphically represent Point to Point & 2.5 Axis Mill Operation Parameters
Purpose:
To provide a graphical display for Mill Parameters within the Operation Parameters dialog box for
Point to Point Mill operations and 2.5 Axis Mill operations in order to illustrate each parameter’s
function and intent
Implementation:
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, the user interface provided within the Mill Operation
Parameters dialog box has been modified to accommodate a Preview pane that provides a
graphical representation of the parameters within the various tabs of this dialog box.
Modified tabs for Point to Point Operations
For point to point operations, the tabs of Operation Parameters dialog box with modified UI are:
Operation Specific tab
NC tab
Feature Options tab
Advanced tab
Optimize tab
Modified tabs for 2.5 Axis Mill operations
For 2.5 Axis Mill operations, the tabs of Operation Parameters dialog box with modified UI are:
Operation Specific tab
NC tab
Feature Options tab
Advanced tab
Lead/Links tab
When the user highlights a particular parameter within the tab, the Preview Pane will provide a
corresponding image representing the functionality of that parameter.
Preview Pane introduced in Operation Specific tab of a Point to Point Operation
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Preview Pane introduced in Feature Options tab of a 2.5 Axis Mill Operation
Preview Pane introduced in Advanced tab of a 2.5 Axis Mill Operation
Preview Pane introduced in NC tab of a Point to Point Operation
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Preview images that graphically represent 3 Axis Mill Operation Parameters
Purpose:
To provide a graphical display for Mill Parameters within the Operation Parameters dialog box for Mill
3 Axis Operations in order to illustrate the each parameter function and intent
Implementation:
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, the user interface provided within the Mill Operation
Parameters dialog box has been modified to accommodate a Preview pane that provides a
graphical image of the parameters within the various tabs of this dialog box. This functionality will be enabled only when Toolpath Generation method is set to Advanced. The tabs with modified
user interface are:
Operation Specific tab (For all Mill Drilling Operations and Mill Operations)
NC tab
Advanced tab
Feature Options tab
Leadin tab
Optimize tab
When the user highlights a particular parameter within the tab, the Preview Pane will provide a
corresponding image representing the functionality of that parameter in graphical form.
Preview Pane introduced in Rough tab of a Rough Mill Operation
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Preview Pane introduced in Optimize tab of a Rough Mill Operation
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Turn/Mill-Turn Defining User Defined Turn Inserts from a SOLIDWORKS part or component part of an Assembly
Purpose: Provide functionality to allow users to define User Defined Turn Insert tools
using a SOLIDWORKS part or component part of an Assembly file in addition to the existing Turn Tool File format (*.cwtt)
Implementation:
In previous version of CAMWorks, user defined turn inserts could be defined
in CAMWorks using only a specific file format (*.cwtt).
Some of the manufacturers of customized tools supply the design data in
neutral format viz. STEP, Parasolid, etc. The limitation of the *.cwtt file
format was that user was unable to use such design data provided in neutral format.
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, User Defined Turn Inserts can be
alternatively defined either from a SOLIDWORKS part or component part of
an Assembly, thereby resolving the previous limitation in harnessing design data.
How Profile for User Defined Turn Insert is generated from part model
In this method, User Defined Turn Inserts can be created from the silhouette
profile of a selected SOLIDWORKS part model or component part of an
assembly. The direction in which to create a silhouette from a three-
dimensional model will be determined by the Coordinate System selected for the part.
Steps to select a SOLIDWORKS part/assembly component for defining a User Defined Turn Insert
The command to invoke the User Interface for selecting a SOLIDWORKS
part or component of an Assembly as a User Defined Turn Insert is provided in the User Defined Turn Insert tab of the Turn Operation Parameters dialog
box.
- Clicking on the Browse button next to the Name field displays the File
Open dialog box. Use this dialog box to browse to the folder location
containing the SOLIDWORKS part model that will be used to define the
User Defined Turn Insert and assign the desired Coordinate System from the Coordinate System dropdown list.
- If an Assembly is selected in the File Open dialog box, the Select Part as
Turn Insert dialog box will be displayed. Use this dialog box to select the
desired component of the assembly as the Turn Insert and assign an appropriate Coordinate System.
- Once you click the OK button, the Name field of the User Defined Turn
Insert tab of the Turn Operation Parameters dialog box will display the
folder path for selected file and the Preview pane will display the profile
of the Turn Insert generated from the selected file.
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Click on Browse button in the User Defined Insert Tab to select the Part model/ Assembly
‘Select Part as Turn Insert’ dialog box
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Defining User Defined Turn Holders/ Boring Bars from a part or Assembly Components
Purpose: Provide functionality to allow users to define User Defined Turn Holders/
Boring Bars using a SOLIDWORKS part or component part(s) of an
Assembly file in addition to the existing STL format (*.stl)
Implementation:
In previous version of CAMWorks, User Defined Turn Holders/ Boring Bars
could be defined in CAMWorks using only an STL file with an assigned Coordinate System.
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, User Defined Turn Holders/ Boring
Bars can be alternatively defined either from a SOLIDWORKS part or component part(s) of an Assembly.
Steps to select a SOLIDWORKS part/assembly components for defining a User Defined Turn Holder/ Boring Bar
The command to invoke the User Interface for selecting a SOLIDWORKS part or component(s) of an Assembly as a User Defined Turn Holder/Boring Bar
is provided in the Boring Bar page under Tool tab of the Turn Operation
Parameters dialog box.
i. Create a SOLIDWORKS part document representing the shape and
geometry of the intended User Defined Turn Holder/Boring Bar.
ii. Create a Coordinate system so that the origin is at the tool nose
center of the Turn tool Insert. Ensure that the Z axis matches with the Turn axis.
iii. Under the Boring Bar tab of the Tool tab of the Operation Parameters
dialog box select appropriate shape for the turn holder of boring bar and, then click on the Browse button next to File Location field.
iv. The File Open dialog box will be displayed. Use this dialog box to
browse to the folder location containing the SOLIDWORKS part model or Assembly that will be used to define the User Defined Turn Holder/
Boring Bar.
a. If a part model is selected, assign the Coordinate System from the Coordinate System dropdown list and click on the Open
button.
b. If an assembly file is selected, then click on the Open button. The Select Components of Assembly as Holder dialog box will be
displayed. Use this dialog box to select those components parts
that will define the Holder/Boring Bar, assign the Coordinate System and then click on the OK button.
v. The CAMWorks User Interface will revert to the Holder/Boring Bar page.
The File Location field in this page will indicate the path and file name
of the Part file selected as the User Defined Turn Holder/ Boring Bar.
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‘Select Components of Assembly as Holder’ dialog box
File Open dialog box displayed on clicking the Browse button
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Defining Coordinate Systems for Main and Sub Spindle from Machine Node itself
Purpose:
Provide a methodology to define separate Coordinate Systems for Main Spindle and Sub Spindle
at the global level (Machine node level)
Implementation:
In previous versions of CAMWorks, in Turn and Mill-Turn mode, user would define a single Coordinate system to be used for both Main and Sub spindle. This posed the following limitations:
The absence of a Coordinate System specific to Sub Spindle occasionally led to axis
orientation differences between Main and Sub Spindles and positional values relative to multiaxis operations.
There was no provision to create a CAMWorks specific Coordinate System while working within CAMWorks.
There was no provision to define Programmable Work Coordinate Offsets that applied to all
operations under different Turn Setups at a global level (Machine node level).
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, in Turn and Mill-Turn mode, the above issues have been
addressed as follows:
Coordinate System Nodes in Feature Tree & Operation Tree
In the CAMWorks Feature tree and Operation tree, under the Coordinate System node, the Main
Spindle and Sub Spindle items will be listed. Note that Sub Spindle item will be displayed only for
machines having Sub Spindle. The default origin for both these Coordinate Systems will be the front of the Turn or Mill-Turn part being machined. The default coordinate system can be edited
using the Main/Sub Spindle Coordinate System dialog box which is displayed on double-clicking
these nodes or selecting Edit Definition on the RMB context menu.
Main Spindle and Sub Spindle Coordinate System node in Feature Tree & Operation Tree
Setup tab of the Turn/Mill-Turn Machine dialog box
In the Setup tab of the Turn and Mill-Turn machines:
a. Separate Edit buttons have been provided for defining Main Spindle and Sub Spindle
Coordinate Systems.
b. Programmable Work Coordinate Offsets can be defined at a global level in the Spindle Work
Coordinate dialog box. This dialog box is displayed on clicking the Edit button within the
Work Offset group box of Setup tab.
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Setup tab of Turn/ Mill-Turn Machine dialog box
Spindle Work Coordinate Dialog Box
Offset tab of Turn Setup/ Mill-Turn Setup
By default, the Offset values displayed in this tab are the programmable work coordinate offset values defined in the Spindle Work Coordinate dialog box. If required, these globally defined values
can be overridden at the Turn Setup level by specifying the desired values in the Offset tab.
Offset Tab of Turn Part Setup
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Main/Sub Spindle Coordinate System dialog box
The Main/Sub Spindle Coordinate System dialog box is
displayed when you:
a. Click on Edit button for Main/Sub Spindle
Coordinate System within the Setup tab of the
Turn and Mill-Turn Machine dialog boxes.
b. Double-click on the Main Spindle Coordinate
System and Sub Spindle Coordinate System
nodes under the Coordinate System item in the CAMWorks Feature tree and Operation tree.
Alternatively, you can select the Edit Definition
command in the RMB context menu of these nodes.
Use the parameters within this dialog box to edit the
Coordinate System for the respective spindles.
Optionally, this dialog box can also be used to save
the defined/edited Coordinate System as a SOLIDWORKS Coordinate System.
You can also select a SOLIDWORKS coordinate system to define the spindle coordinate system.
Spindle Coordinate System dialog box
Origin tab of Turn Setup/ Mill-Turn Setup
Once the Main/Sub Spindle Coordinate systems have been defined, the default origin for all the Turn and Mill setups generated/added thereafter will be the Spindle Origin. For individual Turn or
Mill Setups, this origin (program zero) can be changed using other options provided within this
tab.
Origin Tab of Turn Setup
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Generate Turn Finish toolpaths based on program point of the insert
Purpose:
Provide a methodology to generate the finish toolpaths based on program point of the insert
following the feature geometry. Also provide an option to check for possible collisions.
Implementation:
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, for Face Finish, Turn Finish, Bore Finish and Groove Finish
operations, the Gouge check checkbox within the Program Point group box under the Finish tab of
the Operation Parameters dialog box has been introduced. This checkbox option will be enabled only when the Feature Geometry checkbox is checked.
Finish tab of Turn Operation Parameters dialog box
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When Feature Geometry checkbox is checked, the generated toolpath will follow the feature
geometry. The Gouge check functionality will check such a toolpath against the feature geometry
for possible collisions and will alter the toolpath accordingly.
When the Feature Geometry checkbox is checked and Gouge check option is
unchecked, CAMWorks will generate the toolpath as if the tool nose radius is 0.00 i.e. the Program point (center of the Turn insert) will follow the feature geometry.
Illustration demonstrating toolpath following the feature geometry when 'Feature Geometry' option is checked and 'Gouge Check' option is unchecked
When the Feature Geometry checkbox is checked and Gouge check option too is checked,
then CAMWorks will perform a check for a possible collision of the generated toolpath against
the feature geometry. In case of possible collisions, the toolpath will not follow the feature
geometry in areas where collisions might occur.
Illustration demonstrating areas of the feature that are not machined due to collision detection when both the 'Feature Geometry' and 'Gouge Check' options are checked
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Preview images that graphically represent Turn Operation Parameters
Purpose:
To provide a graphical display for Turn Parameters within the Operation Parameters dialog box for
Turn operations in order to illustrate each parameter’s function and intent
Implementation:
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, the user interface provided within the Turn Operation
Parameters dialog box has been modified to accommodate a Preview pane that provides a
graphical representation of the parameters within the various tabs of this dialog box.
Modified tabs for Turn Operations
For Turn operations, the tabs of Operation Parameters dialog box with modified UI are:
i. Operation Specific tab (Center Drill tab, Countersink tab, Drill Hole tab, Bore Hole tab,
Ream Hole tab, Tap Hole tab)
ii. NC tab, iii. Feature Options tab iv. Advanced tab
When the user highlights a particular parameter within the tab, the Preview Pane will provide a
corresponding image representing the functionality of that parameter in graphical form.
Preview Pane introduced in Operation specific tab of a Turn Operation
Preview Pane introduced in NC tab of a Turn Operation
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Preview Pane introduced in Feature Options tab of a Turn Operation
Preview Pane introduced in Advanced tab of a Turn Operation
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Technology Database
New User Interface option for TechDB
Purpose:
To provide a new user interface format for viewing/accessing/editing information in the Technology Database that doesn’t have any dependency of the MS Access application.
Implementation:
In previous version of CAMWorks, the following user interface options were available for
viewing/accessing/editing the information within the Technology Database:
TechDBForms.mde
TechDBForms_basic.mde
TechdDBFromsx64.mde (option available only if 64-bit MS Access application is installed)
The limitation of these all these above user interface options in *.mde format is that they function
only if a compatible version of MS Access is installed.
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, a new user interface option named TechDB App for
accessing/viewing/editing information in the TechDB is available. This user interface format is not
dependent of any third-party software application like MS Access. It has a simplified user interface compared to the *.mde based user interface formats.
Select desired User Interface Format in TechDB Forms dropdown list of ‘File Locations’ tab
When you install CAMWorks 2018, the new default TechDB user interface format will be TechDB
App. In case you wish to revert to using a *.mde based user interface file for accessing information
in the Technology Database, then following are the steps:
i. Click on the Options command button on the CAMWorks Command Manager.
ii. The CAMWorks Options dialog box will be displayed. Go to the File Locations tab.
iii. In the TechDB Forms dropdown list, observe that TechDB App is the default selection. Click on this dropdown list and select a *.mde based user interface file.
iv. Click the OK button to apply the changes. The next time the TechDB is launched, the *.mde
based user interface file will be displayed.
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SQLite Database type now supported for TechDB
Purpose:
To provide support to SQLite database type for TechDB in addition to the existing types MS Access
and SQL Server.
Implementation:
In previous versions of CAMWorks, only the following two database types were supported:
MS Access
SQL Server
The limitation of both these database types is their dependency on a third party software application like MS Access and SQL Server respectively.
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, a third database type viz. SQLite is supported. This
database type doesn't have a dependency on any third-party software application.
The TechDB database file for this database type is TechDB.cwdb. When you install CAMWorks 2018,
this will be the default database type selected for your system. If you so desire, you can switch
from your existing MS Access based TechDB.mdb file to this SQLite based TechDB.cwdb file by
importing your customized TechDB data from previous version into this new version.
Following are the steps:
i. Open CAMWorks Options dialog box and go to File Locations tab.
ii. In the TechDB Forms dropdown list, ensure TechDB App is selected.
iii. Click the OK button to apply the changes.
iv. On the CAMWorks Command Manager, click on the Technology Database command button .
v. The TechDB App user interface will be displayed. Close the SOLIDWORKS/ CAMWorks
Solids application.
vi. Click on the Settings menu on the left hand side the TechDB App user interface.
vii. In the Link Database tab, select the database type of your choice (SQLite/MS Access/SQL
Server) by clicking on the respective tab.
a. If SQLite or MS Access is selected, the field next to the Browse button indicates the location to the newly installed TechDB database in CAMWorks 2018 version.
b. If SQL Server is selected, enter the requisite details required to connect to the TechDB
Database on the SQL Server.
‘Link Database’ tab in Settings menu of Technology Database
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viii. The next step is to import the customized data from the TechDB of your previous CAMWorks version into this new version. To do so, following are the steps:
a. Click on the Import Database tab.
b. Select the Database type used in the previous version (MS Access/ SQL Server).
c.
If you have selected MS Access as the database type, then use the Browse button to browse to the location of the previous TechDB.mdb file.
If you have selected SQL Server as the database type, then enter the requisite
details and connect to the database by executing Get Database button.
d. Select the data types to be imported by selecting the appropriate checkboxes.
e. Click on the Import button.
f. A pop-up message indicating that data migration was completed successfully will be
displayed once the import process is completed.
The TechDB database with your customized data incorporated is now ready for use.
Import customized data from previous TechDB into the new TechDB using ‘Import Database’ tab
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Assigning Tapping operation to Hole features in Features & Operations Form of TechDB
Purpose:
To provide the ability to assign Tapping operations to hole features, counterbore features and countersink features in the Features and Operations form of Technology Database.
Implementation:
In previous versions of CAMWorks, tapping operations for hole features could be added only to
Cutting Taps table within the Technology Database. There was no provision to select Tapping operations for hole features in the Features and Operations form. There was also no provision to
save changes to a Tap Tool from the CAMWorks User Interface.
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards:
- In the Features and Operations form, Tapping will be available in the list of operations that can
be assigned to the Holes, Countersink holes and Counterbore holes.
- Tap-Rolling or Tap-Cutting tool types can be assigned to Tapping operations.
- When Save Operation Plan command is executed from the CAMWorks User Interface, if Tapping
operations are assigned to any hole, countersink or counterbore features, then it will be saved
as part of a user-defined strategy. If the command is executed for an existing strategy, then
all operations including the tapping operation will be updated in the Features and Operations
form for the corresponding TechDB ID.
Feature & Operation Forms of Technology Database
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API’s and Macro introduced in CAMWorks 2018
Purpose: Achieving automation for various functionalities of CAMWorks by use of APIs.
Reference
document:
To view the list of APIs provided in CAMWorks 2018, click on the Windows Start
menu and select All Programs>>CAMWorks 2018x64>>Manuals>>What’s New in
CAMWorks APIs.
Sr. No. Interface Method Description
1. ICWAdvanceRest
Param
PassExtension
OverAllowance
MachiningMethod
Accuracy
WIPResolution
JoinGaps
PreviousToolType
CutDiameter
EndRadius
MinRemovedStock
SmallestBoundary
BoundaryOffset
BoundaryResolution
Added get and set methods for
“Rest parameters” for 3 Axis mill
operation’s only.
2. ICWFinishMillOp SetToolRadiusLeadInLeadOut Set check status of “Add tool
radius to leadin/leadout”.
3. ICWMillFeature GetParams API to get length and width
parameter values of Mill features.
4. ICWDoc FeatureCreationStyle Added property to get/set Feature
Creation Style at document level.
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License Customized Post Processors with embedded License information and Expiry Date
Purpose: To prevent unauthorized use of customized Post processors provided to
users by embedding License Information and expiry date details in the Post
Processor provided to users
Implementation:
From CAMWorks 2018 version onwards, all customized Post processors
provided to users will contain embedded information on the customer’s
License and optionally an expiry date for Post Processor. This is to prevent
unauthorized use of the Post Processor by users on machines or floating
networks not licensed to run the customized Post Processor.
The customized Post Processors that you receive from your Reseller will
work only on authorized machines and floating networks
- If the customized Post Processor is run on a machine or floating
network on which it is not authorized for use, then an error message
indicating unauthorized use will be displayed.
- When less than 30 days remain for your licensed customized Post
Processor to expire, a Reminder message indicating the number of
days left for your post processor to expire will be displayed.
- If the license duration for your customized Post Processor has
expired, an Error message indicating that the Post Processor has
expired and to request a new one will be displayed.
The above Error/Reminder messages will be displayed in the following
cases: i. When such a Post Processor is selected in the Available list of the
Post Processor tab of the Machine dialog box and the OK button is
clicked. ii. When such a Post Processor is selected in the Available list of the
Post Processor tab of the Machine dialog box and you switch to
another tab. iii. When you execute the Post Process command.
iv. When a macro/API that is executed contains the command for generating NC code.
In cases iii. and iv. above, note that no NC code will be generated as the
license for the Post processor is invalid.
Contact your CAMWorks Reseller to request a licensed Post Processor.
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Data Portability between Higher and Lower Capability licenses
Purpose:
To establish a standard on how CAM data generated for a part/assembly generated using a higher
capability CAMWorks license can be viewed/modified when opened a system with lower capability
CAMWorks license
Implementation:
Opening a part/assembly with CAMWorks Data on a system with Lower Capability License
When a part model or assembly programmed using a CAMWorks license having higher capability
license is opened on another system with a lower capability license, then certain types of
CAMWorks data can neither be modified nor be viewed due to limitations of the license.
Message displayed on opening the part/assembly using a lower capability license
On opening the part/assembly, a message indicating that the current license does not support
some of the features and operations will be displayed. All features and operations which are not
supported by the currently active license will be disabled. Such features and operations will get an
icon to distinguish them indicating that they are not supported by the current license.
Message displayed on selecting What’s Wrong? context menu item on the Feature or Operation node
The RMB context menu of all feature and operation nodes that are not supported by the currently
active license will have a What’s wrong menu option. If you select this menu option, a message
indicating that the current license does not support that particular kind of functionality and that
you need a higher capability license will be displayed.
Limitations imposed due to opening the part/assembly using a lower capability license:
The unsupported features or operations cannot be edited/deleted.
Operations for such features cannot be generated.
Toolpaths for such operations cannot be generated/regenerated or post processed.
Reopening the part/assembly using an appropriate higher capability license
In the future, if the same part/assembly is opened on another system with a valid higher
capability license, then all the features and operations will be restored and can therefore be
modified as per requirement.
Locked Feature items in Feature tree on opening a part on system with Lower Capability license
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CAMWorks Virtual Machine
Enhancements to CAMWorks Virtual Machine
Purpose:
To improve user experience when using the CAMWorks Virtual Machine application.
Enhancement #1 Updated User Interface: Updated icons and Toolbars
CAMWorks Virtual Machine User Interface
Enhancement #2 New 3D Navigation menu
Set, control, rotate and manipulate the view window from within the CAMWorks Virtual Machine
graphics area. Options to select custom view, zoom window, align a view to a face, attach camera
to a node and view nodes are also available.
3D Navigation Menus
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Enhancement #3 Restyled Program Window
New icons to access simulation commands, load program, access macros and subprograms list,
open controller status window and set work origins from the program window.
Restyled Program Window displaying NC code
Enhancement #4 New Tool Database
All in one view, tools are defined by hierarchical structure.
Tools displayed within the CAMWorks Virtual Machine User Interface