The Follow Surface Roughing feature is used primarily for softer materials. Using this method, the cutting tool will rough on a Z Plane, and rise on the geometry to the previous Z Plane machined. When it reaches the previous plane, the tool will lift to rapid, continue to the next point on the tool vector where it last machined, then machine down to the current machining plane.

When this feature is selected from the Tools>Machinist>Rough submenu, the Follow Surf Rough with Up/Down Z dialog appears, containing offset and tolerance settings among others. When you OK this dialog, a second dialog appears. The second dialog contains additional settings, explained below.

Once you OK the second dialog, the toolpath is created per your specifications.

Follow Surf Rough with Up/Down Z Dialog:

Toolpath Description

Specify a name or description for the toolpath being created.

Offsets

• Part Wall Stock – Specify how much stock to leave in 3D.

• Check Wall Stock – Specify the distance away from the check geometry the cutting tool will remain.

• Plunge Clearance – Specify a height above the cutting plane at which the Z-Axes will go into feed mode.

Tolerances

• Chord Height Tolerance – Specify the maximum deviation from the surface.

Cut Direction

• Angle – When checked, the software will use the angle specified in the Cutting Angle filed, under Cutting Parameters.

• Two Points – When checked, you will be prompted to indicate two points to determine the direction of the cut.

Cutting Parameters

• Stepover – Specify a stepover value to be used.

• Cutting Angle – Specify a cutting angle to be used when Angle is checked under Cut Direction.

Step Direction

• Left – When checked, the step will be directed left (looking in the direction of the cutting angle).

• Right – When checked, the step will be directed right (looking in the direction of the cutting angle).

Current Tool and Machine View

Verify that the machining view, tool diameter, and corner radius are correct.

2ND Follow Surf Rough with Up/Down Z Dialog