In previous versions of the Solid Pocket process, horizontal surface critical depths could be automatically detected and cut. In some cases, however, it is more desirable to restrict the critical face machining to the critical depth areas. This new version provides this option which significantly reduces machining time.

In version 17, when detecting critical depths users may choose to either machine the entire level (as before) or to restrict the cuts to the critical face region. Additionally, restricted critical face machining can be sequenced before or after the next depth level.

Depending on the model, a reduction of rough machining time of 20-40% can realistically be achieved, dramatically reducing manufacturing costs.

A new option to reverse the spiral tool path direction allows island tops to be machined from the outside in. This feature ensures the tool descends at a location off the face.

Previously, pocket roughing was restricted to features that when sliced, formed closed boundaries at all levels. If a pocket had non-planar top surfaces, such as the model below, no closed boundary could be formed, and therefore no toolpath created at the upper levels.

With Version 17, as long as there is a closed boundary at a lower level of the pocket, the upper levels of the pocket can be machined using that lower level boundary.

Solid Pocket can now be used to machine pockets with collinear or co-radial gaps in the level slices, such as with the notch in the model below. The system automatically bridges the gap in the slice, and creates toolpath across the gap opening.

Additionally, it is now possible to generate multiple depth levels for a pocket starting from an elevation above the pocket. This is particularly useful when there is additional stock on the top face above the pocket, for example if machining the pocket prior to another process, or from a rough casting with excess stock.