Inventor HSM supports four types of transitions between the cutting passes, depending on the machining strategy.
- No contact - Sidesteps are not connected with each other on the same Z-level, but connected with a retract move .
- Straight line - Simpler, direct connections using straight lines.
- Shortest path - The shortest possible path between machining areas - typically a move in a straight line.
- Smooth - Use smooth tangential movements using true arcs where appropriate.
The Transition type is set on the Linking tab.
Choosing the transition type
The No contact method moves the tool away from the model so that no marks are left on the surface.
No contact
The Straight line method moves along the surface at a constant angle which creates a straight line when viewed from the side.
Straight line transitions
The Smooth method avoids abrupt changes in Z by gradually ramping down along the surface. The ramp never exceeds the specified ramp angle when applicable.
Smooth transitions