Embedded pattern finishing toolpath - contact point example

This example looks at a contact point toolpath. Typically this is used where you want to define the exact position of a toolpath. This uses the Cowling.dgk model in the Examples folder.

1. Create a Block and a Tool.
2. Click Pattern tab > Create panel > Pattern.
3. Click Pattern tab > File panel > Import.

   The Open Pattern dialog is displayed.

4. In the Examples\Patterns directory open Cowling_ContactPoint.dgk.

   

5. To embed the pattern, from the individual Pattern context menu select the Edit > Embed. This displays the Embed Pattern dialog.
6. On the Embed Pattern dialog:
   1. select a Method of Drop (as the pattern is above the model)
   2. click Apply.

   This creates an Embedded Pattern which is marked by in the Explorer. The original pattern is also kept.

   

7. Click Home tab > Create Toolpaths panel > Toolpaths to display the Strategy Selector dialog.
8. From the Finishing category, select Embedded Pattern Finishing.
9. On the Embedded pattern finishing page:
   1. In the Drive Curve frame, select an Embedded Pattern of Cowling_Contact Point_1 (created above).
   2. In the Lower Limit frame, select an Axial Offset of 0.
   3. In the Gouge Avoidance frame select Gouge Check. Since you are specifying the exact location of the toolpath you want to ensure that the toolpath does not gouge the surface.
10. On the Gouge avoidance page:
    1. Deselect Upper Limit since you are creating a single pass.
    2. Select a Strategy of Trace.
11. On the Multiple cuts page:
    1. Select a Mode of Off.
12. Click Calculate.