Global Parameters, 3 Axis Operations

The Global Parameters section allows you to set the tolerance value to be used in machining. Intol and Outol are allowable deviations (tolerances) from the actual part geometry plus the Stock layer (if any).  A uniform thickness or stock that needs to be left around the part can be specified here.

Intol / Outol
Inward tolerance - the maximum thickness of material that can be removed from the Stock layer.  Outward tolerance is the maximum thickness of material that can remain above the Stock layer.

How to Increase Tool Path Accuracy Tolerances play a vital role in both design engineering and digital manufacturing.  In design, the goal is to allow the broadest tolerance range possible while meeting your design specifications. This is because, generally speaking, there is a direct correlation between tighter tolerances and higher manufacturing costs. Read the full article...

Stock  
The thickness of the layer that will remain on top of the part after the toolpath is complete. Roughing operations generally leave a thin layer of stock, but for finishing operations this value is zero.

This section allows you to define the type of cut pattern that the tool will follow.  Select from the following:

Cut Type  
This can be one of the following three types (On, Along or Across). For the Along and Across options refer to the following additional parameter options.

On

Along

Across

Cut Control  
The Cut Control section allows you to define the type of cut pattern that the tool will follow. The two types of cut patterns that are available are ZigZag and Zig. In the ZigZag cut pattern, the cutter traverses back and from along the cuts. In the Zig cut pattern the cutter traverses the cuts in a single direction. In the ZigZag mode of traversal you can choose to have the cutter start at the outside of the regions or from the inside. In the Zig traversal, you can control the cut direction as either to start on the outside and go inwards or vice-versa.

Start Side  
This could be Along the curve within specified bandwidth either to the Left, Right or on Cut Both Sides of the curve. It can also be set to move Across the curve within specified band width either to the Left, Right or on Cut Both Sides of the curve.

Left

Right

Both Sides

Cutting Band Width  
The Stepover Control (see below) is governed by the this Cutting Band Width value.  This guarantees that the desired stepover will never be exceeded at any time during the cut operation.

Stepover Control, 3 Axis Operations

This allows you to define the spacing between the cuts.  Select from the following options:

% Tool Diameter  
Enter the stepover distance as a percentage value of the tool diameter.

Distance  
Enter the exact stepover distance preferred.

Scallop

(not available for all operations)
Enter the scallop height to determine the spacing between cuts.