SmartCAM V18 Mill/Turning: B-Axis and C-Axis Support
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SmartCAM V18 Turning: Live Tool B-axis Positioning and C-axis Face Indexing Support

SmartCAM Advanced Turning now provides support for multi-function lathes with B-axis configurations, and the C-axis indexing capabilities of Advanced Turning have been extended.

Watch the "Programming B- and C-axis Live Tooling in SmartCAM v18.5" Video

Live Tool B-axis Positioning Support - V18.5

SmartCAM Advanced Turning™ now provides basic support for multi-function lathes with B-axis configurations. New machine definition parameters allow the B-axis pivot location and angle reference to be defined, and Showpath and Showcut now display the tool pivoting into position. Workplane orientation rules have been established to ensure consistent and repeatable B axis output. This new capability allows features oriented on the side, face, or skewed planes to be machined by swinging the B-axis into position.

Milling tool b-axis rotated to machine inclined face
New Milling tool b-axis rotated to machine inclined face.

 

Live Tool C-axis Face Indexing - V18.5

The C-axis indexing capabilities of Advanced Turning have been extended to include the ability to index user defined workplanes whose local Z axis is parallel to the world Z axis. This new capability allows machines with a Y axis to machine repetitive face features by indexing the C axis to each feature position then using XY motion to cut the feature. Each feature must be placed on a unique user defined workplane at the respective rotation angle.

Milling Face features machined using a C-axis index and cut strategy. Each toolpath is placed on a user-defined, oriented face workplane. Note: Workplanes displayed offset from world Z axis for illustration clarity
Face features machined using a C-axis index and cut strategy. Each toolpath is placed on a user-defined, oriented face workplane. Note: Workplanes displayed offset from world Z axis for illustration clarity.