Link

Entry/Exit

Defines the initial and final movements of the tool for the entire machining process.

• First Entry: Determines how the tool approaches the machining surface for the first time.

  • Options: Approach from clearance area, rapid distance, feed distance, direct.

• Last Exit: Defines how the tool retracts after completing the machining process.

  • Options: Retract to clearance area, rapid distance, feed distance, direct.

• Start from Home Position/Return to Home Position: Allows starting and finishing the machining process at a specific position and orientation.

Link Functions

Define how the tool connects different segments of the toolpath.

Gaps Along Cut

Connects segments when there are gaps within a single toolpath.

• Direct: A straight line connection between the gap edges without any retractions.

• Follow surfaces: The tool follows the existing workpiece geometry between the gaps. Requires gouge checking.

• Blend spline: A smooth curved connection between the gap edges.

• Step (3-axis only): The tool retracts, moves horizontally, then approaches the next segment.

• Retract to feed/rapid/clearance distance: The tool retracts to the specified distance, moves horizontally, then approaches the next segment.

Links Between Passes

Connects adjacent passes within a slice.

• Uses the same options as Gaps Along Cut.

Links Between Slices

Connects adjacent cuts or cutting layers.

• Uses the same options as Gaps Along Cut.

Lead-In/Lead-Out

Defines the initial and final movements of the tool within a machining segment.

• Lead Types:

  • Arc: Creates a curved path to connect the tool to the cutting path. Various types (tangential, orthogonal, vertical, horizontal) are available.

  • Line: Creates a straight-line connection. Options include tangential, reverse tangential, orthogonal, vertical profile ramp, reverse vertical profile ramp, and slant line.

  • Position line: Uses a predefined line as the starting or ending point for the toolpath.

• Tool Axis Orientation:

  • Fixed: Tool axis remains constant during the lead.

  • Tangential: Tool axis orientation changes to ensure continuous rotation.

  • Maximum lead angle change: Limits the total change in tool axis orientation.

  • Tilted: Maintains the main tilt strategy specified in tool axis control.

  • Orthogonal to cut direction: Keeps tool axis perpendicular to the tangential line (4-axis only).

Retracts

Define the tool's movement away from the workpiece to a safe position.

• Clearance Area:

  • Specifies the safe space around the workpiece.

  • Shapes: Plane, Cylinder, Sphere.

  • Orientation: Based on axis, user-defined, or machining direction.

• Distances:

  • Rapid distance: Distance for rapid tool movement.

  • Entry feed distance: Distance for tool approach with plunge feed rate.

  • Exit feed distance: Distance for tool retraction with plunge feed rate.

  • Air move safety distance: Minimum safe distance during air movements.

• Arc Fit: Creates smooth arcs during retractions.

• Tool Orientation on Clearance: Aligns tool axis with or against clearance area face normal.

• Retract Types: Retract to clearance area, rapid distance, or feed distance.

• Retract Paths: Straight line or arc fit.

• Key Considerations

  • The selected link type must meet safety conditions.

  • Gouge checking can influence available link types and their behavior.

  • Follow stock option is available for stock-supported patterns.

  • Distance differentiation can be applied to both passes and slices.