Lesson 1 - Import, Stock, Machining Prep

00:09

Welcome to the first lesson in the FeatureCAM Ultimate milling class.

00:14

In this lesson, we’ll be taking an introductory look at 5-axis simultaneous machining.

00:20

In the FeatureCAM Premium class, we took a look at 5-axis positional machining or 3+2 machining.

00:28

In 3+2 machining, we would move our rotational axes, lock them into place, and then machine a 2.5D or 3D milling feature while the axes stayed locked.

00:40

In FeatureCAM, 5-axis simultaneous allows us to machine features while freely moving both rotational axes.

00:49

It may sound complex, but in FeatureCAM, it's actually pretty straightforward.

00:53

So to start this lesson, just like every other project that we have worked on, we'll start by opening up our new document, importing our solid model, setting up our stock, and taking care of machining prep.

01:06

So to start, let's open up an inch milling document.

01:11

With our new document created, drag and drop the Ultimate_1 Parasolid file into the user interface.

01:19

Hopefully by now, you're getting pretty comfortable with the Import Wizard.

01:23

Let's work through this wizard to set up our positive Z and X direction, then define our stock and place our setup location.

01:34

We'll start by picking two points to define our Z direction.

01:37

I'll just rotate the model around.

01:41

Pick these two points along this vertical edge.

01:44

Do the same with the X direction.

01:50

And move on to setting up our stock.

01:53

For this file, let's just set up a basic block stock that's the exact size of our model.

01:59

With those default values left in, we’ll hit "Next", place our setup in the top center of our stock, indicate that we will be using fifth axis positioning.

02:10

Finally, "Finish" and we're ready to wrap up our machining preparation.

02:16

For this lesson, let's continue to use the Basic tool crib.

02:20

Make sure that that is selected in the status bar.

02:23

And let's use the 5-axis.cnc post processor.

02:28

To do so, just like we brought in our model, we can drag and drop the 5-axis.cnc file.

02:35

Now that we've opened our new file, imported our solid model, setup our stock, taken care of our setup location or touch off point, and indicated what tool crib and post processor we’ll be using, we're ready to start creating our first 5-axis simultaneous features.