Clearance geometry

For Multi-axis 3D toolpaths with 4-, 5-axis machining, you can control how the tool moves between cuts by setting Clearance Geometry on the Heights tab of the toolpath dialog. The same clearance options are available when you edit Leads and links for a toolpath.

• Plane - Standard Z-plane clearance area. The tool moves to a fixed Z height between positions. Use this when a single height gives safe clearance between moves.

• Cylinder - Cylindrical clearance area around a defined axis. The tool moves along the surface of a cylinder between positions. Use this on cylindrical parts or when you need clearance around a rotary axis.

• Sphere - Spherical clearance area that provides clearance in all directions. The tool moves within a spherical boundary between positions. Use this when you need maximum clearance flexibility or when working with complex part geometry.

• Box (only for 5-axis) - Rectangular clearance area defined by a bounding box. The tool creates linking moves around the perimeter of the workpiece within the box boundaries. Use this when you need to control tool movement within a defined rectangular region. On the canvas, use the drag handles to resize the box. Use the Symmetrical option to keep the box centered as you scale it, or clear it to resize asymmetrically.

Plane clearance area	Cylinder clearance area
Sphere clearance area	Box clearance area