LASER / PLASMA

TUTORIAL

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Table of Contents
CHAPTER 1 GETTING STARTED 1-1
How to Use This Manual................................................................................. 1-2
Installing Learning Files ............................................................................ 1-2
Steps to Generate an NC Program................................................................... 1-3
Step 1: Draw the CAD Part or Open Part File .......................................... 1-3
Step 2: Start Laser or Plasma .................................................................... 1-3
Understanding the Laser/Plasma Screen .............................................. 1-5
Step 3: Set the Setup Information ........................................................... 1-10
Setup Information Dialog Box ........................................................... 1-10
Changing Setup Information .............................................................. 1-11
Step 4: Define the Diameter of the Flame or Beam (Tool)..................... 1-12
Step 5: Select the Cutting Conditions ...................................................... 1-13
Step 6: Generate Tool Paths..................................................................... 1-14
Step 7: Post Process the Part ................................................................... 1-15
Using Tool Files ............................................................................................ 1-17
Creating a Tool File ................................................................................. 1-17
CHAPTER 2 INSERTING TOOL PATHS AUTOMATICALLY 2-1
Toolfitting........................................................................................................ 2-2
Generating Tool Paths Automatically........................................................ 2-2
Defining Outside and Inside Edges............................................................ 2-4
Changing the Tool Path on External Sharp Corners .................................. 2-8
Using the Open Area Avoidance Modifier .............................................. 2-10
Toolfitting with Open Area Avoidance.............................................. 2-11
Using the Snap Modifiers with Open Area Avoidance ...................... 2-15
Using the Cutting Database ........................................................................... 2-18
Changing Cutting Conditions................................................................... 2-18
Applying Additional Cutting Conditions ................................................. 2-21
Cutting Conditions Based on Area ..................................................... 2-21
Cutting Conditions Based on Line Length and Arc Radius ............... 2-23
Creating Micro Joints .................................................................................... 2-25
For More Practice .......................................................................................... 2-28
Skill-Builder Exercise: TOOLFIT 1 ........................................................ 2-28
Skill-Builder Exercise: TOOLFIT 2 ........................................................ 2-29
Skill-Builder Exercise: TOOLFIT 3 ........................................................ 2-30
CHAPTER 3 INSERTING TOOL PATHS SEMI-AUTOMATICALLY 3-1
Profile Tool Paths ............................................................................................ 3-2
Inserting a Boundary and Generating a Profile Tool Path ......................... 3-2
Changing the Direction of the Tool Path ................................................... 3-5
Using Leadin and Leadout Modifiers ........................................................ 3-6

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Table of Contents

Interference Checking ................................................................................ 3-6

Using Compensation Modifiers ............................................................... 3-10
Inserting Tool Paths on Multiple Boundaries .......................................... 3-12
Inserting Multiple Tool Paths .................................................................. 3-16
Single Entity Tool Paths ................................................................................ 3-19
Inserting a Linear Tool Path with End Compensation............................. 3-19
Using Reference Compensation............................................................... 3-20
Inserting a Circular Tool Path.................................................................. 3-21
CHAPTER 4 WORKING WITH TOOL PATHS 4-1
Utility Toolbar Commands .............................................................................. 4-2
Automated Part Grid Layout ........................................................................... 4-4
Creating a Part Grid Layout ....................................................................... 4-4
Order Utility..................................................................................................... 4-6
Simulating Material Removal .................................................................... 4-6
Reordering CAM Cycles............................................................................ 4-7
Reordering CAM Cycles ...................................................................... 4-7
Moving Cycles...................................................................................... 4-8
Optimizing Tool Paths................................................................................... 4-10
Using Single Window Optimization ........................................................ 4-10
Optimizing Large Sheets of Parts with Grid Optimization...................... 4-12
Working with the Optimization Manager ................................................ 4-16
Using Levels to Define the Optimization Order................................. 4-16
Using Order Groups to Define the Optimization Order ..................... 4-18
Using Optimization Groups................................................................ 4-20
Repositioning................................................................................................. 4-22
Using Automatic Repositioning............................................................... 4-22
Repositioning Manually........................................................................... 4-25
Breaking Tool Paths That Cross the Table Limit Zone ........................... 4-27
Breaking Entities Example 1 .............................................................. 4-28
Breaking Entities Example 2 .............................................................. 4-29
CHAPTER 5 MACROS/SUBROUTINES 5-1
Defining and Inserting Macros ........................................................................ 5-2
Defining and Calling a Macro.................................................................... 5-2
Using a Grid Macro Call............................................................................ 5-4
Setting the Macro Display.......................................................................... 5-9
Modifying Macros ......................................................................................... 5-10
Undefining a Macro ................................................................................. 5-10
Editing a Macro........................................................................................ 5-11
Repositioning with Macros............................................................................ 5-13

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CHAPTER 6 ADDITIONAL COMMANDS 6-1

Etching............................................................................................................. 6-2
Attributes ......................................................................................................... 6-5
Attaching Attributes to CAM Entities ....................................................... 6-5
Checking Entities for Attributes ................................................................ 6-7
Changing Attribute Settings....................................................................... 6-8
Removing Attributes .................................................................................. 6-8
Using the Edit Utility with the Attribute Modifier ............................... 6-8
Using the Erase Utility with the Attribute Modifier............................. 6-9
Boundaries ..................................................................................................... 6-10
Correcting Overlapping Entities .............................................................. 6-10
Correcting Breaks in the Path .................................................................. 6-11
Calculating the Area of a Part .................................................................. 6-13
Performing Simple Bending .......................................................................... 6-14
INDEX

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Table of Contents

iv
Chapter 1 Getting Started

This manual is designed to introduce you to the features of the ProCAM Laser and Plasma
systems. The information and exercises in this chapter help you understand the process to
generate toolpaths and NC code.

Getting Started 1-1

How to Use This Manual

How to Use This Manual

This manual is a tutorial. It is designed to guide you through the steps to generate an NC
program and introduce you to the features of the ProCAM Laser and Plasma systems.
• The information and exercises in Chapter 1 help you understand the process of creating
an NC program.
• The exercises Chapters 2 through 6 provide an opportunity to learn how to use the
features and functions of the Laser and Plasma systems.

Online Help
If you want more information about a particular feature or function, see the applicable
topics in the online Help system. To open the Laser/Plasma Help, select Help on the
ProCAM menu bar, then select Laser/Plasma Topics.

Installing Learning Files

Sample parts are provided for the exercises in this manual. The following sample post
processors are also included:
FANTUTLP = Laser post processor
FANTUTPL = Plasma post processor
FANLCUT = Laser post processor with support for cut conditions
FANPCUT = Plasma post processor with support for cut conditions
FANLSORT = Laser post processor with sorter arm support
FANPSORT = Plasma post processor with sorter arm support
These post processors are to be used for learning purposes only. The NC code they generate
is not intended to actually run in your machine.
When you ran the Setup program to install ProCAM, the Setup program automatically
created a \procad\parts\learn folder containing the learning part files and copied the post
processor files to the \procad\ctl folder.

1-2 Getting Started

 Steps to Generate an NC Program

Steps to Generate an NC Program

The following steps are used to generate NC programs:

1. Draw the part or open a part file.

2. Start Laser or Plasma.
3. Specify the Setup Information.
4. Define the diameter of the flame or beam (tool).
5. Select the cutting conditions.
6. Generate tool paths.
7. Post process the part.

The next series of exercises show you how to follow these steps to cut around a simple part
(EXLAS1.PRT). In order to understand how the system works, you are asked to accept a
number of defaults when you are defining the tool paths. This is done to show you the basics
of generating a tool path without getting into details at this time.

The exercises in this manual are intended to help you learn Laser/Plasma system operation
and may not correspond to actual machining practices.

Step 1: Draw the CAD Part or Open Part File

In addition to drawing parts in ProCAM, you can also import parts that are in AutoCAD
Drawing Exchange (DXF), AutoCAD Drawing File (DWG), Initial Graphics Exchange
(IGES) and CADKey Exchange (CDL) format.
EXERCISE 1. Start ProCAM 2D.
2. Choose Open on the File menu.
The Open File dialog box displays.
3. Change the folder to \procad\parts\learn.
4. Select Exlas1.prt in the file list, then press ENTER or click OK.
This part was drawn in the 2D CAD system.

Step 2: Start Laser or Plasma

The CAM button on the CAD toolbar starts a CAM system, in this case the Laser or Plasma
system.

Click the CAD button to return from Laser or Plasma to CAD.

Getting Started 1-3

Steps to Generate an NC Program

1. Click the CAM button on the CAD toolbar.

− The Controller Type dialog box displays a list of machine tool
controllers or post processors.
− The list that displays for your system depends on the number of
controllers or post processors you have installed. If only one
post processor is installed, ProCAM automatically selects that
controller.
− When you select a combination machine (punch/plasma or
punch laser), an additional dialog box displays the applicable
choices for the machine.
2. Select FANTUTLP (Laser) or FANTUTPL (Plasma) and click OK.
In the exercises in this manual, when you are asked to start Laser
or Plasma, select either the FANTUTLP or FANTUTPL controller
depending on which system you purchased. When you create your
own parts, pick the post processor that will be used to cut the part.

1-4 Getting Started

 Steps to Generate an NC Program

Understanding the Laser/Plasma Screen

When you start the Laser or Plasma system, the Utility and Snap toolbars remain the same as
in the CAD system. The Laser or Plasma toolbar replaces the CAD toolbar. The menu bar
remains the same; however, menu commands are enabled that were not applicable in CAD.
The system bar changes to display Laser/Plasma items.

The ProCAM window may look different on your system, depending on the layout and colors
you have selected in the Screen Display dialog box.
Work Area
When you start Laser or Plasma, the work area displays two large rectangles:
• The solid rectangle represents the sheet. The default sheet size for FANTUTLP and
FANTUTPL is 72.00" x 48.00". You can change the sheet size in the Setup Information
dialog box.
• The dashed line rectangle represents the over travel zone. The over travel zone for
FANTUTLP and FANTUTPL is 74.00" x 50.00".

Getting Started 1-5

Steps to Generate an NC Program

System Bar

System bar

The system bar contains some items that are the same as the CAD system and the additional
items explained below.
Item Description
Tool button The Tool button on the system bar is used to define or select tools. Next to
and the Tool button is the Tool selection box. This box indicates the current tool
selection box position and allows you to change a tool position quickly. The diameter of
the current tool is shown to the right of the box.
Tool Two options on the right side of the system bar control tool compensation
Compensation for arc, linear and circular tool paths. Initially, these options are set to Rgt
options (right) and EndCmp (end compensation).

Laser/Plasma Toolbar
The Laser/Plasma toolbar displays the Laser/Plasma command buttons:
This toolbar displays when
Linear Tool Path you select FANTUTLP,
Arc Tool Path Circular Tool Path
which is the generic Laser
post processor. If you are
Rapid using the Plasma post
processor, FANTUTPL, the
Sorter Arm Toolfit
same toolbar displays with
Boundary Profile Tool Path Plasma as the title. The
functionality is the same.
Bend Optimize

Reposition Macro

Post Process Attribute

Switch to CAD

Modifier Toolbars
There are three types of modifiers:
• Single-choice modifiers
These modifiers are selected by clicking the button once. ProCAM highlights the button
to indicate it is selected.

1-6 Getting Started

 Steps to Generate an NC Program

• Multiple-choice modifiers
These modifier buttons are toggles. Click the button a number of times to toggle though
the selections until the modifier you are looking for is shown on the button.
• Additional choice
These modifier buttons display additional modifiers when selected.
ToolTips
A ToolTip is a label that identifies the function of a toolbar button. To display
the ToolTip, position the mouse pointer on a button and let the pointer rest
there. A ToolTip ending in two greater than symbols (>>) indicates the button
is a toggle that has additional options. Click the button to view the next
modifier.
When you click a toggle modifier button, move the pointer off the button,
then back on to display the ToolTip.

Fabrication Display Dialog Box

EXERCISE 1. Select Setup on the menu bar, then choose Fabrication Display.
The Fabrication Display dialog
box displays.
You can also display this dialog
box when you click the
Fabrication Display Dialog Box
button on the Order Utility
Simulation toolbar.
This dialog box contains
options for controlling the
display of the part in the work
area and during simulation
(using the Order Utility).

Note that the display of rapids, arrows, and stock can also be turned on and off in the
CAM Display dialog box.

Getting Started 1-7

Steps to Generate an NC Program

Parameter Description
Tool Display You can choose to display all tools during simulation or only the current
tool selected from the drop down list.
Rapid Display When this option is selected, ProCAM displays gray, dashed lines
On representing rapid moves between CAM entities. You may want to turn
off this display to make it easier to view the part.
Arrow Display When this option is selected, arrows display on boundaries and CAM
On entities indicating the direction of machining. You may want to turn off
this display to make it easier to view the part.
Stock Display When this option is selected, ProCAM displays a solid rectangle
On representing the defined stock material (sheet) size. You can change the
size of the rectangle in the Setup Information dialog box.
Over Travel When this option is selected, ProCAM displays a dashed-line rectangle
Display On representing the over travel zone. Each side represents a machine over
travel limit.
Clamps Display Select this option to display work clamps in the work area at the current
On locations. You can specify the location of the clamps either in the Setup
Information dialog box or using the Set Clamps command on the CAM
menu. If the locations are set to 0,0, the clamps do not display even when
this option is selected.
Note that some plasma/laser posts do not have clamps.
Entity Color This section controls the color of the entities during simulation. You can
set the color for the Stock, Clamps, Over Travel Limits, Tool, and
Unpickable.
Simulation This section controls the display of Laser/Plasma cuts during simulation.
Type You can choose to highlight the cuts, display wire frame hits or simulate
the stock as a solid.
Hit Display You can choose to display either the first and last hit or every hit on the
tool path.
Note that on slower computers, turning off the Rapid, Arrow and Hit Display options may
improve repaint speed.
2. Click OK or Cancel to exit the Fabrication Display dialog box.

1-8 Getting Started

 Steps to Generate an NC Program

CAM Menu Commands

EXERCISE 1. Select CAM on the menu bar.

The CAM menu commands that are used in Laser/Plasma are

explained briefly below.
Command Description
Select Displays the Controller Type dialog box (shown on
Controller page 1-3). This command allows you to change the
controller for post processing a part.
You can create a part and define the tool paths for
one controller, then post process the part for another
controller that is physically compatible.
If you want to post process a part on a machine that
is not physically compatible, use the Save As
command on the File menu.
Select the CAD Only option in the Save As dialog box and save the part with a
different name. The CAD Only option removes all controller information and
tool paths from the part so that you can select a new controller and reinsert the
tool paths.
Display Displays the Controller Display dialog box, which contains information about
Controller the controller.
Setup Displays the Setup Information dialog box, which contains information
Information pertaining to setup conditions for a particular part. The Setup Information
dialog box is explained on page 1-10.
Set Clamps Allows you to graphically position the clamps on the sheet or input the
locations in the InfoBar using the Keyboard command on the Snap toolbar.
You can use either this command or the Setup Information dialog box to set the
position of the clamps. Note that most laser and plasma machines do not have
clamps. The FANTUTLP and FANTUTPL post processors have clamps to
demonstrate this feature.
Trap Door This command is a graphical tool that shows where the trap door will be when
Display it is activated. This helps you find the location that the plasma/laser needs to be
in for the part to be over the trap door. The trap door can be displayed at each
entity. When you select this command, ProCAM displays the trap door. You
can use a Snap command to snap a location to center the part over the trap
door. Click button 2 to cancel the trap door display.
Tool Files This command allows you to save tool definitions in a separate file that can be
opened and used with any part. This eliminates having to redefine tools.

Getting Started 1-9

Steps to Generate an NC Program

Step 3: Set the Setup Information

EXERCISE 1. Select Setup Info on the CAM menu.
The Setup Information command on the CAM menu is used for the following:
− to provide information required to generate the NC program. The parameters in this
dialog box are machine-dependent and different parameters may display for your
controller or post processor. The value for a parameter is output in the NC code if the
machine requires it.
− to provide information for the Setup Sheet, a file that is created when the NC program
file is generated. All of the parameters in this dialog box are included in the Setup
Sheet. For more information on this file, see page 1-16.
− to display the sheet size and the locations of the clamps.
Setup Information Dialog Box
The Setup Information dialog box displays
when you select Setup Information on the
CAM menu.
The parameters shown in the figure are for
a Laser controller and are required for most
NC programs. Additional parameters, such
as Part Name and Part Number, may
display if they are required by the
controller.

Screen Required by Output to

Parameter Description Display NC Code Setup Sheet
Program The program number that is used by the machine controller No Machine- Yes
Number to register the program into memory. In a Fanuc controller, dependent
this is a four-digit number. You do not need to enter the
leading zeroes. For example, for program number 10, you
would type 10 not 0010.
If your machine needs a character string in front of the
number, this is typically done automatically by the post
processor. For the Fanuc post that is being used here, a
letter O will be output in front of the program number by
the post processor, so it does not need to be entered in the
Setup Information.
X Sheet Width The size of the material you will be using. Input the actual Yes Machine- Yes
Y Sheet Height sheet size, so you can see graphically in the work area how dependent
it will look. These parameters MUST be set correctly for
automatic repositioning.

1-10 Getting Started

 Steps to Generate an NC Program

Screen Required by Output to

Parameter Description Display NC Code Setup Sheet
Material Some machines use this information to determine how the No Machine- Yes
machine will operate (for example, to determine tonnage). dependent
Part Thickness Some machines do not use this parameter. No Machine- Yes
dependent
Clamp 1 X The location of the clamps on the machine. This Yes Machine- Yes
Clamp 2 X information is critical to the operation of the machine. Most dependent
laser and plasma machines do not have clamps.
Absolute Allows you to determine whether the NC code output is No Machine No
Incremental absolute or incremental. dependent

Init Feedrate Defines the cutting feedrate for the material. No Yes No

Compensation Determines if G codes for cutter radius compensation are No Yes No

output in the NC program and allows you to choose which
code.
D Offset Defines the beam/flame compensation offset amount. No Yes No

Changing Setup Information

EXERCISE Change the information in the Setup Information dialog box:
1. Type 100 for the Program Number and press TAB.
2. Type 48.000 for X Sheet Width and press TAB
3. Type 24.00 for Y Sheet Height and press TAB.
4. Type 304SST for the Material and press TAB.
This information is output in the Setup Sheet.
5. For the Part Thickness, press TAB to accept the default.
This information is output in the Setup Sheet.
6. Type 10.000 for Clamp 1 and press TAB.
7. Type 40.00 for Clamp 2 , then click OK.
The other parameters do not need to be changed for this exercise. You can use the
defaults.
The sheet and work clamps (i.e., the deadzones around the clamps) display in the work
area in relation to the stock and over travel zone.

Getting Started 1-11

Steps to Generate an NC Program

Step 4: Define the Diameter of the Flame or Beam (Tool)

Tools are defined using the Laser Tools and Set Tool dialog boxes.

EXERCISE 1. Click the Tool button on the system bar.

"Tool" is used in this manual as a generic term for the plasma/laser cutting diameter and
definition.
The Laser Tools or Plasma Tools dialog box
displays. This dialog box represents the cutting
definitions. The following information displays
for each tool:
− Name: Identifies which tool definition will be
used. The tutorial post processor has 3 tool
definitions that are numbered sequentially.
− Type: This column displays RO, an
abbreviated form of the round tool type in the
tool definition.
− Diameter: The size of the flame or beam you will be compensating for.
2. Click anywhere on the information line for the first tool, then click the Edit button.
The Set Tool dialog box
displays.
Diameter: Defines the size of
the flame or beam you will be
compensating for.
Comment: You can enter a
maximum of 25 characters (text and numbers) to identify the tool. Tool comments are
included with the tool information in the Setup Sheet, which is output at the end of the
NC program.
3. Double-click the Diameter text box.
4. Type .250, then click OK.
− The Tools dialog box shows a .250 diameter for Tool 01.
− For most of the exercises in this manual, a large tool diameter is used to make it easier
to see the cut.
5. Click OK to exit the Laser Tools or Plasma Tools dialog box.

1-12 Getting Started

 Steps to Generate an NC Program

Step 5: Select the Cutting Conditions

The Toolfit command is used to automatically insert CAM entities to cut a part. You can
toolfit a group of parts, a single part, or portions of a part.
EXERCISE 1. Click Setup on the menu bar and click Fabrication Display on the Setup menu.
In the Fabrication Display dialog box, click the Stock Display On, Over Travel Display
On and Clamps Display On options to remove the check marks, then click OK.
2. Click the Zoom All button in the lower right corner of the ProCAM window.
Turning off the sheet, over travel zone and clamp displays makes it easier to work with
parts.

3. Click the Toolfit button on the Laser/Plasma toolbar.

The modifier toolbar displays the options you can use to customize the tool path.

4. Use the default Closed modifier. This modifier should be used when the tool
boundary is closed (when cutting completely around a part or opening). When this
modifier is selected, the modifiers shown on the toolbar can be used.
5. Do not change the modifiers:

Outside Toolfit
This modifier is the most commonly used. When selected, ProCAM considers outermost
loops as outside edges of parts and profiles to the outside of these closed loops. Closed
loops inside these outer loops are treated as internal edges and profiling is performed to
the inside of these loops. If there are entities inside the inner loops, ProCAM cuts around
the outside of them.

Round Corner
On sharp corners, ProCAM inserts an arc with a radius the same size as the tool radius
tangent to the two entities leading up to the corner.

Open Area Avoidance

If this button is highlighted, you can pick the tool path leadin/leadout locations or
ProCAM can automatically locate the locations on the entities to be cut to best avoid
rapiding across open areas, which could result in damage to the laser head.
The prompt line reads: SELECT entities to toolfit (button 2 when done).
6. Window pick all the entities in the part, then click BUTTON 2.
The Laser Toolfit Parameters dialog box displays. This dialog box allows you to modify
cutting conditions for a specific part. The default values that display are taken from the
cutting conditions database that can be customized for different materials. The database is
explained in a subsequent chapter.
7. Use the default Material on the General tab.

Getting Started 1-13

Steps to Generate an NC Program

8. Click the External Boundary tab.

9. Use Clockwise for the Toolpath Direction.
10. Use Auto for the Start Position.
When you select this option and use automatic toolfitting (explained below), ProCAM
applies the leadin prior to the first entity of the boundary and the leadout after the last
entity of the boundary.
11. For the leadin and leadout, specify these values:
− Type = Arc
− Length = 0
− Leadin/Leadout Angle = 0
− Leadin/Leadout Overlap = 0
− Arc Radius = .25"
− Arc Sweep Angle = 90
12. Click OK.
The prompt line reads: PICK highlighted entity to toolfit (or button 2 to optimize all).

Step 6: Generate Tool Paths

You are now ready to generate the tool paths. When you use the Toolfit command, you can
either manually pick the entities individually or allow ProCAM to automatically generate an
optimized tool path.
EXERCISE 1. Click BUTTON 2 to allow ProCAM to generate an optimized tool path.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate for optimization start.
This prompt applies when cutting multiple parts and allows you to determine the first part
to toolfit.
2. Click anywhere in the work area.
The tool path is inserted on the part.
3. Choose Save As on the File menu.
The Save As dialog box displays.
4. Type LP EX1 in the File Name text
box, then click OK.
You do not have to type the .prt
extension. ProCAM adds the
extension automatically.

1-14 Getting Started

 Steps to Generate an NC Program

Step 7: Post Process the Part

The Post Process command on the Laser and Plasma toolbars translates toolpath information
into NC code that can be interpreted by a controller. ProCAM creates NC code for each tool
path in the sequence the tool path appears in the part.

EXERCISE 1. Click the Post Process button on the Laser or Plasma toolbar.
The Save Post File dialog box
displays.
By default, the NC program and
Setup Sheet files are saved in the
\procad\txt folder. If you want these
files in another location, you can
change this folder.
2. If LP EX1.txt is not in the File
Name text box, type LP EX1.
You do not have to type the
extension if you are using the
default .txt.
Naming the Post file the same as the Part file is a common way of saving parts and NC
programs. Both files can have the same name because they have different extensions. Part
files have a .prt extension. Post files have a default .txt extension.
3. Click Save.
− The Post dialog box and modifier toolbar display.

− Make sure the Highlight Cut button is highlighted. ProCAM will highlight the
cut as the applicable code is generated.

− Make sure the View Code button is highlighted. During post processing,
ProCAM displays the NC code in the Post dialog box.
4. Move the Post dialog box so you can see the part.

5. Click the Run button.

− ProCAM generates the NC program and displays the program in the Post dialog box.
You can stop post processing at any time by pressing any key. This puts ProCAM in
Step mode. In Step mode, you can click BUTTON 2 to continue one step at a time. You
can change modifiers, zoom in on an area of the part, then resume post processing by
clicking the Run button.
− ProCAM generates two files: LP EX1.TXT (the NC program) and LP EX1.SET (the
Setup Sheet). The files generated by the Laser post processor are shown below.

Getting Started 1-15

Steps to Generate an NC Program

− The .TXT file is the NC program file that contains the CNC commands for the
machine control unit to activate the tool functions and cutting tool movements for the
part. The .TXT files are saved in the \procad\txt folder. You can edit the file, if
necessary, using a DNC editor, the control unit edit mode, or a word processor.
− The .SET file is not used to control the machine tool. It is a text file that contains
information the operator can use to set up the machine tool. The information includes
the machine, the controller, the part material, and the tool type and size. This file is
located in the same folder as the NC program file. The Setup Sheet can be read or
printed using a word processor or text editor.
NC Program for Laser: LP EX1.TXT
O0100
G90 G20 G17 G61 M06 M18
G90 G00 X1.5 Y3.625
M16 G04 P1.
M08
G41 D01
G03 X1.25 Y3.875 I-.25 J0 F10.
G02 X.875 Y4.25 I0 J.375
G01 Y6.75
G02 X1.25 Y7.125 I.375 J0
G01 X2.9375
G02 X3.0259 Y7.0884 I0 J-.125
G01 X3.3384 Y6.7759
G02 X3.375 Y6.6875 I-.0884 J-.0884
G01 Y5.75
X4.9375
G02 X5.0259 Y5.7134 I0 J-.125
G01 X5.3384 Y5.4009
G02 X5.375 Y5.3125 I-.0884 J-.0884
G01 Y4.
G02 X5.25 Y3.875 I-.125 J0
G01 X1.25
G03 X1. Y3.625 I0 J-.25
M06
G40
M18 G04 P.3
M30
Setup Sheet: LP EX1.SET
( PART NAME=LP EX1 )
( PROGRAM NUMBER=0100 )
( MACHINE=LASER TUTORIAL )
( CONTROLLER=FANUC TYPE )
( MATERIAL=304SST )
( THICKNESS=.063 )
( ESTIMATED MACHINE TIME=0 HRS. 1 MIN. 43 SEC. )
( STATION TOOL TYPE X SIZE Y SIZE RADIUS ANGLE DESCRIPTION )
( ------- --------------- ------ ------ --------- --------- -------------------- )
( 001 ROUND 0.2500 )

1-16 Getting Started

 Using Tool Files

Using Tool Files

The tool definitions used to cut a part are saved in the part file when you save the part. In the
previous exercise, the tool definition used to cut the part was saved in LP EX1.PRT when
you saved the part. When you defined this tool, you were defining it for use on the current
part only. If you wanted to use the same tool definition on another part, you would have to
redefine it. You can eliminate having to continually redefine tools by using tool files. The
Tool Files command on the CAM menu allows you to save tool definitions in a separate file
that can be opened and used with any part.
Creating a Tool File
In this exercise, you create a tool file that can be used for the exercises in this manual.
EXERCISE 1. Click New on the File menu.

2. Click the CAM button, select either FANTUTLP (laser) or FANTUTPL (plasma) in
the Controller Type dialog box and click OK.
3. Click the Tool button on the system bar at the top left of the ProCAM window.
The Laser Tools or Plasma Tools dialog box displays. Tool definition 01 is highlighted.
4. Click the Edit button.
5. In the Set Tool dialog box, double-click the Diameter text box and type .25, then click
OK.
6. Click OK to exit the Laser Tools or Plasma Tools dialog box.
7. Click CAM on the menu bar and select Tool Files.
8. On the cascading menu, choose Save.
9. In the Save Tool File dialog box,
type either FANTUTLP or
FANTUTPL for the File name.
You do not need to type the .ltf
extension for laser or the .ftf
extension for plasma. ProCAM adds
the extension automatically.
ProCAM will open this file
automatically when you exit to
CAM and select the FANTUTLP or
FANTUTPL post processor.
You can save a tool file with a unique name and have as many different tool files as you
need.
10. Click Save.

Getting Started 1-17

Using Tool Files

1-18 Getting Started

Chapter 2 Inserting Tool Paths Automatically

The Toolfit command is used to automatically insert CAM entities on a Laser or Plasma part.

Inserting Tool Paths Automatically 2-1

Toolfitting

Toolfitting
The Toolfit command on the Laser and Plasma toolbars is used to automatically insert CAM
entities to cut a part. You can toolfit a group of parts, a single part, or portions of a part.
By setting various modifiers, you are able to control the methods ProCAM uses to cut the
part. The Toolfit command can toolfit either CAD entities or a boundary. This command is
also used to automatically insert CAM entities onto CAD entities for etching. The Toolfit
command is used to generate tool paths for text. Any text on the screen can be cut. For more
information on etching, see Chapter 6.
Generating Tool Paths Automatically
In the following exercise, you use the Toolfit Outside modifier to toolfit a part with multiple
cutouts and holes.
EXERCISE 1. Open part file Exlas12.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Click the CAM button and start Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).
3. Select Fabrication Display on the Setup menu.
4. Remove the check marks from the Stock Display On, Over Travel Display On and
Clamps Display On options, then click OK.
5. Click the Zoom All button in the lower right corner of the window.

6. Click the Toolfit button on the Laser or Plasma toolbar.

7. In the Laser Tools or Plasma Tools dialog box, click the Edit button.
8. Change the Diameter to .25 in the Set Tool dialog box and click OK.
9. Click OK to close the Tools dialog box.

10. Make sure the Outside Toolfit modifier is displayed.

This modifier is the most commonly used and is the default. When selected, ProCAM
considers outermost loops as outside edges of parts and profiles to the outside of these
closed loops. Closed loops inside these outer loops are treated as internal edges and
profiling is performed to the inside of these loops. If there are entities inside the inner
loops, ProCAM cuts around the outside of them.
The prompt line reads: SELECT entities to toolfit (button 2 when done).
11. Window pick the entire part and click BUTTON 2.
The Laser Toolfit Parameters dialog box displays. This dialog box allows you to modify
cutting conditions for a specific part. The default values that display are taken from the
cutting conditions database that can be customized for different materials. The database is
explained later in this chapter.
12. Use the default Material on the General tab.

2-2 Inserting Tool Paths Automatically

 Toolfitting

13. Click the External Boundary tab and set the following options:
− Toolpath Direction = Clockwise
− Start Position = Long Edge Midpoint
14. For the leadin and leadout, use the following values:
− Type = Arc
− Length = .1
− Leadin/Leadout Angle = 0
− Leadin/Leadout Overlap = 0
− Arc Radius = .125"
− Arc Sweep Angle = 90
15. Click the Internal Boundary tab and use the defaults for the Toolpath Direction and Start
Position.
16. For the leadin and leadout, use the same values as the External Boundary:
− Type = Arc
− Length = .1
− Leadin/Leadout Angle = 0
− Leadin/Leadout Overlap = 0
− Arc Radius = .125"
− Arc Sweep Angle = 90
17. Click OK.
The prompt line reads: PICK highlighted entity to toolfit (or button 2 to optimize all).
18. Click BUTTON 2.
In this exercise, you click BUTTON 2 to allow ProCAM to automatically generate an
optimized tool path.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate for optimization start.
This prompt applies when cutting multiple parts and allows you to determine the first part
to toolfit.
19. Click anywhere in the work area.

Inserting Tool Paths Automatically 2-3

Toolfitting

The tool path is inserted on the part.

Note that if you were cutting this
part using a laser, some of the rapids
in this tool path cross open areas
where material has been removed,
which could cause damage to your
laser head. You could try inserting
tool paths using the Open Area
Avoidance modifier, which is
explained in a subsequent exercise in
this chapter. You could also insert
lift laser head attributes to prevent
damaging the head. Inserting
attributes is explained in Chapter 6.

Defining Outside and Inside Edges

ProCAM automatically calculates to which side of an entity a tool path should be placed. To
do this, the Toolfit function needs to determine which entities make up the outside edge of a
part and which entities make up the internal edges. This is accomplished by ProCAM
chaining connected entities into closed loops and sorting them to determine which loops are
inside other loops. Then, ProCAM uses the Outside/Inside Toolfit modifier to determine on
which side to insert the tool path.
In the following exercise, you use the Toolfit Outside modifier to toolfit a part within a part.
EXERCISE 1. Open part file Toolfit.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.
If the part is in the work area from the previous exercise, click No twice. You do not want
to overwrite the database or save the changes to the part in the work area.

2. Click the CAM button and start Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).
3. Zoom up on the part labeled #1 – Outside Toolfit.

4. Click the Toolfit button on the Laser or Plasma toolbar.

5. Set up a .25" diameter tool.
− If you created a tool file in Chapter 1, tool definition 01 should have a .25" diameter
and you can click OK to close the Laser Tools or Plasma Tools dialog box.
− If you did not create a tool file, select Tool 01 and click Edit. Change the Diameter to
.25 in the Set Tool dialog box and click OK. Then click OK to close the Laser Tools
or Plasma Tools dialog box.

2-4 Inserting Tool Paths Automatically

 Toolfitting

6. Make sure the Outside Toolfit modifier is displayed.

When selected, ProCAM considers outermost loops as outside edges of parts and profiles
to the outside of these closed loops. Closed loops inside these outer loops are treated as
internal edges and profiling is performed to the inside of these loops. If there are entities
inside the inner loops, ProCAM cuts around the outside of them.
The prompt line reads: SELECT entities to toolfit (button 2 when done).
7. Window pick all the entities in the first part, then click BUTTON 2.
The Laser Toolfit Parameters dialog box displays.
This dialog box allows you to modify cutting conditions for a specific part. The default
values that display are taken from the cutting conditions database that can be customized
for different materials. The database is explained on page 2-18.
8. Use the default Material on the General tab.
9. Click the External Boundary tab and set the following options:
− Toolpath Direction = Clockwise
− The Start Position option does not apply in this exercise since you are going to pick
the start location on each entity.
10. For the leadin and leadout, use the following values:
− Type = Arc
− Length = 0
− Leadin/Leadout Angle = 0
− Leadin/Leadout Overlap = 0
− Arc Radius = 1.00"
− Arc Sweep Angle = 90
11. Click the Internal Boundary tab and use Counter Clockwise for the Toolpath Direction.
12. For the leadin and leadout, use the following values:
− Type = Arc
− Length = 0
− Leadin/Leadout Angle = 0
− Leadin/Leadout Overlap = 0
− Arc Radius = 1.00"
− Arc Sweep Angle = 90
13. Click OK.
The prompt line reads: PICK highlighted entity to toolfit (or button 2 to optimize all).
In this exercise, you pick the entities individually instead of clicking BUTTON 2 to allow
ProCAM to automatically generate an optimized tool path.

Inserting Tool Paths Automatically 2-5

Toolfitting

14. Leave the Digitize button highlighted on the Snap toolbar.

When you pick the entities to toolfit, you can use Digitize or a different Snap modifier to
select the start position.
15. Pick the inside cutout, then the inside
square and finally the outside
perimeter as shown in the figure.
ProCAM determines on which side to
generate the tool paths based on the
Outside Toolfit modifier.
When you use this method for
toolfitting, the order you pick the
entities is the order they will be
machined. If necessary, you can use
the Optimize command or the Order
utility to change the order of the
CAM cycles. See Chapter 5 for more
information.

EXERCISE The Inside Toolfit modifier is used when the entities selected for toolfitting define only
internal edges. For example, assume the part in the middle has already been sheared to size
and only the inside entities need to be toolfit.
1. Zoom up the part labeled #2 – Inside Toolfit.

2. Click the Outside Toolfit modifier to display the Inside Toolfit modifier.
The prompt line reads: SELECT entities to toolfit (button 2 when done).
3. Window pick only the circles and the four lines defining the internal cutout in the middle
part, then click BUTTON 2.
4. In the Laser Toolfit Parameters dialog box, use the default Material type.
5. Click the Internal Boundary tab.
6. Use the default for Toolpath Direction.
7. For the leadin and leadout, use the following values:
− Type = Arc
− Length = 0
− Leadin/Leadout Angle = 0
− Leadin/Leadout Overlap = 0
− Arc Radius = 1.00"
− Arc Sweep Angle = 90

2-6 Inserting Tool Paths Automatically

 Toolfitting

8. For the leadin and leadout, use the following values:

− Type = Arc
− Length = 0
− Leadin/Leadout Angle = 0
− Leadin/Leadout Overlap = 0
− Arc Radius = 1.00"
− Arc Sweep Angle = 90
9. Click OK.
The prompt line reads:
PICK highlighted entity to
toolfit (or button 2 to
optimize all).
10. Click BUTTON 2, then
click anywhere in the
work area.
ProCAM automatically
generates an optimized
tool path that cuts
around the inside of the
entities.
EXERCISE You can also cut parts within parts using the Inside Toolfit modifier. In part #3 on the right in
the work area, the small part inside the rectangular cutout is actually a separate part.
1. Zoom up the part labeled #3 – Inside Toolfit.
2. Window pick all of the entities
except the four outside edges
and click BUTTON 2.
3. In the Laser Toolfit Parameters
dialog box, define an Arc
Leadin and Leadout for
external and internal boundaries
using the same settings as the
previous exercise, then click
OK.
4. Click BUTTON 2 to optimize all
and click anywhere in the work
area.
When these parts are toolfit, ProCAM cuts around the outside of the part in the middle,
then around the inside of the rectangular cutout.

Inserting Tool Paths Automatically 2-7

Toolfitting

Changing the Tool Path on External Sharp Corners

This exercise shows the effect of the Corner Type modifier on external sharp corners when
toolfitting. A sharp corner is defined as any corner where the entities meet to create a point.
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file Exlas7.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.
If the part is in the work area from the previous exercise, click No twice. You do not want
to overwrite the database or save the changes to the part in the work area.

2. Click the CAM button and start Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).
3. Zoom up the part.
4. Change the color.

5. Click the Toolfit button on the Laser or Plasma toolbar.

6. Set up a .25" diameter tool for the first tool.
− If you created a tool file in Chapter 1, tool definition 01 should have a .25" diameter
and you can click OK to close the Laser Tools or Plasma Tools dialog box.
− If you did not create a tool file, select Tool 01 and click Edit. Change the Diameter to
.25 in the Set Tool dialog box and click OK. Then click OK to close the Laser Tools
or Plasma Tools dialog box.

7. Make sure the Outside Toolfit modifier is displayed.

8. Click the Corner Type modifier until Sharp Corner displays.

This modifier creates a sharp corner on entities forming outside sharp corners by
extending the cuts to the intersection of the entities. If the corner extends beyond the Cnr
ext (corner extension) amount, the sharp corner is squared off.
The prompt line reads: SELECT entities to toolfit (button 2 when done).
9. Window pick the part and click BUTTON 2. The Laser Toolfit Parameters dialog box
displays.
10. Use the default Material Type.
11. Click the External Boundary tab.
12. Use the default for Toolpath Direction.
13. Use a Parallel Leadin with a 1.00" Length and no overlap.
14. Use an Arc Leadout with a 1.00" Length, no overlap, a .5 Arc Radius, and a 90 degree
Arc Sweep Angle.
15. Click OK.
The prompt line reads: PICK highlighted entity to toolfit (or button 2 to optimize all).
In this exercise, you manually pick the entities to toolfit and the start position.

2-8 Inserting Tool Paths Automatically

 Toolfitting

16. Click the Endpoint button on

the Snap toolbar.
17. Pick the part at the endpoint of the
arc indicated by the arrow.

ProCAM generates the tool

path. Notice how the cutter
ran out to the intersection on
the upper right corner.

18. Oops off the tool path.

Tool Path with Sharp Corner Modifier

19. Click the Corner Type modifier until Square Corner displays.
This modifier generates a square corner transition on outside sharp corners. The Cnr ext
(corner extension) amount defines the distance that ProCAM will extend the tool path
beyond the corner before
creating the square corner
transition.
20. Window pick the part and click
BUTTON 2.
21. Click OK in the Laser Toolfit
Parameters dialog box.
22. Pick the part at the endpoint of
the arc.
The part should look like the
figure.
Tool Path with Square Corner Modifier
23. Oops off the tool path.

Inserting Tool Paths Automatically 2-9

Toolfitting

24. Click the Corner Type modifier button until the Triangular Corner modifier
displays.
This option creates a sharp corner by extending cuts on external sharp corners, then
connecting the cuts forming a triangle.
In the InfoBar, the Cnr ext (corner extension) parameter displays for setting the amount
the tool will extend beyond the part. If the corner tool path travels beyond the corner
extension amount, the corner is squared off (i.e., a triangular corner is not needed).
25. Double-click the text box, type .5 and press ENTER.
26. Window pick the part and click BUTTON 2.
27. Click OK in the Laser Toolfit Parameters dialog box.
28. Pick the part at the endpoint of the arc.
Notice how all the corners
except the upper right have
been extended out with a
triangular move. The upper
right did not need to have a Triangular Corners
triangular corner because
the tool could not be
extended the .5".
The problem area with a
part like this is the corner
near the Leadout. Notice
how ProCAM inserted a Profile Tool Path with Triangular Corner Modifier
triangular corner there. This is a sharp corner, so ProCAM will automatically insert a
triangular corner on all sharp corners.
The solution to this is to put a small fillet on any corner that you do not want a triangular
corner on. ProCAM then treats it as a normal radius.
Using the Open Area Avoidance Modifier
Some lasers require that the laser head remain in close proximity to the material. The laser
cannot rapid across an open area where material has previously been removed or damage can
occur to the laser head. Some lasers may also have a sensor spoon that is connected to the
laser head that remains in contact with the material. This sensor spoon must avoid open areas
by a distance equal to the sensor spoon radius.
The Open Area Avoidance option allows you to pick the order that entities are to be toolfit.
You can pick the tool path leadin/leadout locations or ProCAM can automatically locate
them on the entities to be cut to best avoid rapiding across open areas. If necessary, ProCAM
also adds rapids to circumvent open areas. As a last resort, ProCAM adds a head lift attribute
to lift the head over an open area.

2-10 Inserting Tool Paths Automatically

 Toolfitting

The FANTUTLP and FANTUTLP post processors have been modified to support a lift laser
head attribute. In order to use the Open Area Avoidance function, your post processor must
support a lift laser head attribute. To determine if your post processor has this support, click
the Attribute button on the Laser or Plasma toolbar. If lift laser head is listed in the list of
available attributes in the Select Attribute dialog, then your post processor has this support.
If it is not listed, contact your ProCAM reseller to have your post processor customized.
WARNING! Cutting a part that is created with a post that does not support the lift laser head
attribute could cause serious damage to your laser head.
You need to understand the logic used in open area avoidance toolfitting. When an open area
is created by cutting out material, ProCAM places a safety zone around the open area. The
safety zone is a rectangle the size of the open area plus the sensor radius. This defines the
area the sensor spoon wants to stay clear of if possible.
The logic becomes somewhat difficult when the safety areas of different open areas start
overlapping or the uncut parts lie inside a safety area. Even though the uncut parts are inside
a safety area, they still must be cut. Typically, toolfitting with open area avoidance activated
will not rapid directly over an open area, but will rapid into or out of a safety area if
necessary. Whenever you cut parts with a laser, check the tool path carefully and make sure
the laser will not rapid across an open area where material has previously been removed.

If you use the Open Area Avoidance modifier, do not use the Optimize function.

Toolfitting with Open Area Avoidance

The following exercise shows how ProCAM circumvents open areas when the Open Area
Avoidance modifier is selected for toolfitting. When you toolfit the part in this exercise, you
see three conditions that commonly occur in open area avoidance tool fitting: rapiding
directly between tool paths, rapiding around open areas and doing a head lift over open areas.
EXERCISE 1. Open part file Exlas21.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.
If the part is in the work area from the previous exercise, click No twice. You do not want
to overwrite the database or save the changes to the part in the work area.
This is a simple part with 5 cutouts inside a profile.

2. Click the CAM button and start Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).
3. Select Setup on the menu bar, then select Fabrication Display.
4. Remove the check marks from the Stock, Over Travel and Clamps Display options, then
click OK.
5. Click the Zoom All button in the lower right corner of the ProCAM window.

6. Click the Toolfit button on the Laser or Plasma toolbar.

7. Click Edit in the Laser Tools or Plasma Tools dialog box and set the diameter to .07" for
Tool 1.

Inserting Tool Paths Automatically 2-11

Toolfitting

8. Click OK twice to close the tool dialog boxes.

9. Make sure the Outside Toolfit modifier is displayed.

10. Click the Open Area Avoidance modifier.

11. Window pick all the entities, then click BUTTON 2.
12. In the Laser Toolfit Parameters dialog box, set the Part Clearance to 0.000.
This parameter determines the amount of material to leave on the part. This value is the
actual distance the cutter stays away from the finished part.
13. Set the Sensor Spoon Radius to 1.000.
If the laser has a sensor spoon connected to the laser head that remains in contact with the
material, enter the radius of the sensor spoon. Otherwise, enter 0.00. When an open area
is created by cutting out material, ProCAM places a safety zone around the open area.
The safety zone is a rectangle the size of the open area plus the sensor spoon radius. This
defines the area the sensor spoon wants to stay clear of if possible. Toolfitting with open
area avoidance activated will not rapid directly over an open area, but will rapid into or
out of a safety area if necessary.
14. Set the Rapid Go Around Distance to 100.000.
If ProCAM finds that it must rapid across an open area, ProCAM looks for an alternate
way to rapid around it. The Rapid Go Around Distance is the maximum distance
toolfitting will rapid around an open area.
If the distance necessary to go around an open area becomes greater than the Rapid Go
Around Distance, ProCAM will do a head lift and rapid directly between the parts across
the open area.
If the Rapid Go Around Distance is set to 0, a head lift will be done between all entities if
there is an open area between the end of the last cut entity and the start of the next entity.
If the Rapid Go Around Distance and the Sensor Spoon Radius are both set to 0, a rapid
will be done between the end of the last cut entity and the start of the next entity with no
head lift.
15. Click OK to close the Laser Toolfit Parameters dialog box.
The prompt line reads: PICK highlighted entity to toolfit (or button 2 to optimize all).

The Entity Select button is highlighted on the Snap toolbar. In this exercise, you use
the default Entity Select, which allows ProCAM to calculate a leadin/leadout location
automatically to prevent the head from traveling over the open areas as it moves to the
next entity. You can override the automatic calculation by selecting a Snap modifier other
than Entity Select (for example Endpoint or Midpoint).

2-12 Inserting Tool Paths Automatically

 Toolfitting

16. With Entity Select highlighted, pick cutout 1

and holes 2 and 3 in order.
As each entity is picked, it is highlighted in red
and gray to indicate it has been selected. As
soon as hole 3 is selected, the tool path is
inserted around cutout 1. This is because
ProCAM is able to calculate where to start and
end the tool path to be able to rapid from
cutout 1 to hole 2 without going over the open
area created when cutout 1 was cut.
Although the order the entities are selected in
this exercise may not be the best way to cut
this part, this order is used to illustrate several
conditions that can occur when using the Open
Area Avoidance modifier.
17. Pick hole 4.
The tool path is inserted around hole 2 and the rapid displays from the tool path around
cutout 1 to the tool path around hole 2.
18. Pick hole 5.
The tool path is inserted around boundary 3 and rapids display from the tool path around
boundary 2, around the open area created by cutting boundary 1, to the tool path around
boundary 3.
19. Pick the outside entity at 6.
Since this is the last entity in the part,
ProCAM can finish toolfitting. A tool path is
inserted around hole 4 with rapids from the
tool path around hole 3.
A tool path is inserted around hole 5 with
rapids from the tool path around hole 4 to the
tool path around hole 5 going directly across
the open area created by cutting cutout 1.
This is because there is no way to go around
this open area. The open areas created by
cutting holes 2 and 3 block ProCAM from
rapiding around the open area. Therefore,
ProCAM attaches a lift laser head attribute to
the tool path around 4 and inserts a rapid
directly connecting the two tool paths.
20. Select CAM Display on the Setup menu.
21. In the General section, remove the check mark from the Boundary Arrows option.

Inserting Tool Paths Automatically 2-13

Toolfitting

22. In the Attribute Display section of the dialog box, make sure the During 123/Measure and
Symbol options are selected, then click OK.

23. Click the Redraw button on the Utility toolbar.

The Attribute symbol displays at the leadout on hole 4.

You can use the Edit utility to see that ProCAM has attached a lift laser head attribute:

24. Click the Edit button on the Utility toolbar.

25. Click the Attribute button on the modifier toolbar.

26. Pick the Attribute symbol on hole 4.
The Select Attribute dialog box displays showing that
a lift laser head attribute has been attached.
27. Click the Close button.
28. Repeat the exercise above changing the
Spoon Sensor Radius to .5 and the Rapid
Go Around Distance to 0.0 in the Laser
Toolfit dialog box.
When you set the Rapid Go Around
Distance to 0.0, a head lift will be done
between all entities if there is an open
area between the end of the last cut entity
and the start of the next entity.

Tool Path with Rapid Go Around Distance = 0

2-14 Inserting Tool Paths Automatically

 Toolfitting

Using the Snap Modifiers with Open Area Avoidance

The following exercise shows the results of using a Snap modifier other than the default
Entity Select when toolfitting with the Open Area Avoidance modifier.
• In the previous exercise, you used the Entity Select modifier. ProCAM calculated a
leadin/leadout location automatically to prevent the head from traveling over the open
areas as it moved to the next entity.
• If you select a Snap modifier other than Entity Select (for example, Endpoint, Midpoint,
Digitize or Distance From End Of), you pick the leadin/leadout locations. Depending on
where you pick, ProCAM may have to rapid over the open area created by the last
boundary in order to get to the next boundary.
EXERCISE When you toolfit the part in this exercise, you see how ProCAM toolfits parts when you use a
different Snap modifier with the Open Area Avoidance modifier.
1. Open part file Exlas21.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.
If this part file is currently open, continue to step 2.
2. Select Set Layers on the View menu.
3. In the Layers dialog box turn on Layer 2 and make it current, turn off Layer 1, then click
OK.

4. Click the CAM button and start Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).
5. Click the Zoom All button.
This part has four cutouts inside 6 parts.

6. Click the Toolfit button on the Laser or Plasma toolbar.

7. Click the Edit button in the Laser Tool or Plasma Tool dialog box and set the diameter to
.07" for Tool 1.
8. Click OK twice to close the tool dialog boxes.

9. Make sure the Outside Toolfit modifier is displayed.

10. Click the Open Area Avoidance modifier.

The prompt line reads: SELECT entities to toolfit (button 2 when done).
11. Window pick all the entities, then click button 2.
The Laser Toolfit Parameters dialog box displays.
12. Make sure these parameters are set:
− Part Clearance = 0.000
− Sensor Spoon Radius = 1.000
− Rapid Go Around Distance = 100.000

Inserting Tool Paths Automatically 2-15

Toolfitting

13. Click the External Boundary tab and set the Leadin and Leadout to:
− Type = Arc Leadin = .007
− Leadin Angle = 0 Leadin Overlap = 0
− Arc Radius = .007" Arc Angle = 90
14. Click the Internal Boundary tab and set the Leadin and Leadout to the same as the
External Boundary, then click OK.
The prompt line reads: PICK highlighted entity to toolfit (button 2 to optimize all).

Notice that the Entity Select button is highlighted on the Snap toolbar. The default
Entity Select allows ProCAM to calculate a leadin/leadout location automatically to
prevent the head from traveling over the open areas as it moves to the next entity.
15. With Entity Select highlighted, pick the cutouts and profiles labeled 1 through 5 in order.
Since ProCAM calculates the leadin/leadout locations automatically, it does not matter
where you pick on each boundary.

16. Change the Snap modifier to Digitize (do not click button 2 yet).
If you pick a Snap modifier other than Entity Select, you select the leadin/leadout
locations instead of ProCAM. Depending on the leadin/leadout location you pick,
ProCAM may have to rapid over the open area created by the last boundary in order to get
to the next boundary.

2-16 Inserting Tool Paths Automatically

 Toolfitting

Although the order the entities are selected in this exercise may not be the best way to cut
this part, this order is used to illustrate conditions that can occur when using the Open
Area Avoidance modifier.
17. Pick the cutouts and profiles labeled 6 through 10 in order.
Pick each boundary near the number. Since you are digitizing, where you pick is where
ProCAM will leadin/leadout.
When the last profile is picked, all the tool paths are inserted.
18. Look at the tool paths.
The tool paths that were inserted using the Entity Select Snap do not rapid over open
areas.

Rapids around open area from 3 to 4

For the tool paths that were inserted using the Digitize Snap, the start/end locations that
you picked create a situation where in order to get from part 7 to part 8, the tool path
rapids over the open area created when part 7 is cut.

Rapids across open area Rapids across open area

from 7 to 8 from 9 to 10

Inserting Tool Paths Automatically 2-17

Using the Cutting Database

Using the Cutting Database

ProCAM includes a user-defined database to further automate the Laser cutting process. The
Laser Toolfit Parameters dialog box provides controls for individual leadin/outs, leadin/out
start at hole center, automatic lift head option, start cutting at micro joint, and options for NC
code output based on the controller's capabilities.
Changing Cutting Conditions
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file Toolfit Cut Data.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Click the CAM button and start Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).
3. In the Fabrication Display dialog box, turn off the stock, over travel and clamps display.
4. Click the Zoom All button at the bottom right side of the window.
5. Set up a tool with a .05" diameter.

6. Click the Toolfit button.

7. Window pick the part and click BUTTON 2.
8. In the Laser Toolfit Parameters dialog box, click the External Boundary tab and set the
following parameters:
− Toolpath Direction = Clockwise
− Start Position = Auto
− Leadin and Leadout
Type = Arc Length = .20"
Angle = 0 Overlap = 0.0
Arc Radius = .25" Arc Sweep Angle = 90
9. Click the Internal Boundary tab and set the following:
− Toolpath Direction = Counter Clockwise
− Start Position = Long Edge Midpoint
− Leadin and Leadout
Type = Perpendicular Length = .20"
Angle = 30 Overlap = 0.0
10. Click the Holes tab and set the following:
− For Hole Size 3, check the Start and End at Hole Center option.
− Select Hole Size 3 in the Show Leadin/Leadout parameters for list box and set the
Leadin and Leadout to None.
− Select Hole Size 5 in the Show Leadin/Leadout parameters for list box and set the
Leadin and Leadout to Perpendicular with a .05" Length.

2-18 Inserting Tool Paths Automatically

 Using the Cutting Database

11. Click the General tab.

There are two options on this tab to save the cutting conditions you have set up:
− You can apply the changes to the current Material by clicking the Apply Changes
button.
− You can type a new material in the Material text box and optionally type a comment,
then click the Add New Material button to create a new record in the database.
12. For this exercise, you do not need to
save the conditions, so you can click
OK.
13. At the prompt PICK highlighted entity
to toolfit (or button 2 to optimize all),
click BUTTON 2.
14. At the prompt to DIGITIZE coordinate
for optimization start, click BUTTON 2.
15. Zoom up on different areas of the part
and notice the following:
For .125" diameter holes (Hole Size
3), the leadin starts from the center of
the hole and the leadout ends at the
center of the hole.
The .50" diameter holes (Hole Size 5)
have a .05" perpendicular leadin and
leadout. All other internal boundaries have a .20" perpendicular leadin and leadout with a
30 degree angle.
All external boundaries have a .20" arc leadin and leadout.
EXERCISE In this exercise, you use the same part with different cutting conditions to see the difference
in the tool paths that are generated.
1. Open the part file Toolfit Cut Data.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.
If Toolfit Cut Data.prt is currently open, do not save the changes to the part in the work
area and do not overwrite the database.

2. Click the CAM button and start Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).
3. In the Fabrication Display dialog box, turn off the stock, over travel and clamps display.
4. Set up a tool with a .05" diameter.

5. Click the Toolfit button.

6. Window pick the part and click BUTTON 2.

Inserting Tool Paths Automatically 2-19

Using the Cutting Database

7. In the Laser Toolfit Parameters dialog box, click the External Boundary tab and set the
following parameters:
− Toolpath Direction = Clockwise
− Start Position = Auto
− Leadin and Leadout
Type = Arc Length = .20"
Angle = 0 Overlap = 0.0
Arc Radius = .25" Arc Sweep Angle = 45
8. Click the Internal Boundary tab and set the following:
− Toolpath Direction = Counter Clockwise
− Start Position = Long Edge Midpoint
− Leadin and Leadout
Type = Perpendicular Length = .20"
Angle = 45 Overlap = 0.0
9. Click the Holes tab and set the following, then click OK:
− For Hole Size 4, change the Maximum diameter to 1.25"
− For Hole Size 5, change the Maximum diameter to .8"
− Select Hole Size 3 in the Show Leadin/Leadout parameters for list box and set the
Leadin to Perpendicular with a .025" Length and set the Leadout to None.
− Select Hole Size 4 in the Show Leadin/Leadout parameters for list box and set the
Leadin and Leadout to Perpendicular with a .05" Length.
− Select Hole Size 5 in the Show Leadin/Leadout parameters for list box and set the
Leadin and Leadout to Perpendicular with a .25" Length.
10. At the prompt PICK highlighted entity to toolfit (or button 2 to optimize all), click BUTTON 2.
11. At the prompt to DIGITIZE coordinate for optimization start, click BUTTON 2.
12. Zoom up on different areas of the part and notice the following:
− The .125" diameter holes (Hole Size 3) have a .025" perpendicular leadin and no
leadout.
− The .50" diameter holes (Hole Size 4) have a .05" perpendicular leadin and leadout.
− The 1.00" diameter holes (Hole Size 5) have a .25" perpendicular leadin and leadout.
− All other internal boundaries have a .20" perpendicular leadin and leadout with a 45
degree angle.
− All external boundaries have a .20" arc leadin and leadout.

2-20 Inserting Tool Paths Automatically

 Using the Cutting Database

Applying Additional Cutting Conditions

IMPORTANT! The cutting database can include additional cutting conditions that can be
applied to a specific material based on area, hole size, and entity attributes, such as line
length and arc radius. These controls are available only if the post processor that has been set
up to support these conditions.
Post processors (FANLCUT and FANPCUT) are provided for this exercise. These post
processors are not intended for production use. The corresponding databases
(FANLCUT.MDB and FANPCUT.MDB) are also provided. These databases were created by
copying the FABDBENGLISH.MDB or FABDEMETRIC.MBD file and renaming the copy
either FANLCUT.MDB (Laser) or FANPCUT.MDB (Plasma). If you would like to customize
your post processor to support some or all of the additional cutting database conditions,
contact your TekSoft reseller.
Cutting Conditions Based on Area
EXERCISE 1. In ProCAM, open the part file Toolfit Cut Data1.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Click the CAM button and select either FANLCUT (Laser) or FANPCUT (Plasma).
3. In the Fabrication Display dialog box, remove the check marks from the Rapid, Arrow,
Stock, Over Travel, and Clamps Display On options.
4. Click the Tool button on the system bar and set up a tool with a .05" diameter.

5. Click the Toolfit button.

6. Leave the Cut Conditions by Area modifier displayed.

7. Click the Edit Toolfit Dialog modifier button.

8. Click the Area tab and pick royal blue for Area Size 1 and cyan (light blue) for Area Size
5.
9. Click the External Boundary tab and set the Leadin and Leadout to Perpendicular with a
.25" Length, 0 Angle and 0 Overlap.
10. Click the Internal Boundary tab and set the Leadin and Leadout to Perpendicular with a
.05" Length, 30 degree Angle and 0 Overlap.
11. Click the Holes tab and check the Start and End Hole at Center option for Hole Size 3.
12. Click the Holes CC tab, then pick Bright Yellow for Hole Size 3 and Magenta for Hole
Size 5.
13. Click the General tab.
14. Type Steel for the Material and type Steel Defaults for the Comment, then click the Add
New Material button.
The current cutting conditions are saved in the database and can be used with any part by
selecting Steel for the Material.
15. Click OK.

Inserting Tool Paths Automatically 2-21

Using the Cutting Database

16. Window pick the part and click BUTTON 2.

17. Click OK to close the Laser Toolfit Parameters dialog box.
18. Click BUTTON 2 to optimize all entities.
19. For the optimization start location, pick in the work area near the bottom left of the part.
ProCAM generates the tool paths.
20. Press CTRL + L.
21. In the Layers dialog box, turn on Layer 1 and click OK.
A chart displays in the work area to help you understand how the tool paths were
calculated.
22. Zoom up on the holes and areas.
The table below explains the cutting conditions ProCAM used to calculate the tool paths.
Hole / Area Cutting Conditions Comment
Hole A - yellow Hole Size 3 Leadin starts at the center of the hole and
.125" diameter leadout ends at hole center
Hole B - magenta Hole Size 5 A .05" perpendicular leadin and leadout was
.5" diameter generated based on the Hole Size 5
parameters.
Hole C - magenta Internal Boundary Because the hole is greater than the
1.0" diameter maximum .8" for Hole Size 5, ProCAM
used the parameters for Internal Boundary
and generated a .05" perpendicular leadin
and leadout.
Area D – cyan Area Size 4 Because this area was greater than 40 sq.
43.7211 sq. inches inches, ProCAM generated the tool path
based on Area Size 4.
Area E – royal blue Area Size 5 Because this area was less than 10 sq.
< 10 sq. inches inches, ProCAM generated the toolpath
based on Area Size 5.

23. Save the part as Cut Data by Area.prt.

2-22 Inserting Tool Paths Automatically

 Using the Cutting Database

Cutting Conditions Based on Line Length and Arc Radius

EXERCISE 1. Open the part file Toolfit Cut Data1.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Click the CAM button and start Laser (FANLCUT) or Plasma (FANPCUT).
3. In the Fabrication Display dialog box, remove the check marks from the Rapid, Arrow,
Stock, Over Travel, and Clamps Display On options.
4. Click the Tool button on the system bar and set up a tool with a .05" diameter.

5. Click the Toolfit button.

6. Click the Cut Conditions by Area modifier button to display the Cut Conditions by
Line Length and Arc Radius button.

7. Click the Edit Toolfit Dialog modifier button.

8. On the General tab, if you did the previous exercise, select Steel for the Material.
If you did not do the previous exercise, continue with the next step.
9. Click the Line Length tab and set the following parameters.
− For Length 3, set the maximum length range to 1.5" and the color to bright red
− For Length 4, set the maximum length range to 2.0" and the color to royal blue
− For Length 5, set the color to green
10. Click the Arc Radius tab and pick cyan (light blue) for Arc Radius 4.
11. If you did not do the previous exercise, follow steps 10-15 on page 2-21 to set the
parameters on the other tabs and add the new material.
If you did the previous exercise, the parameters are all set correctly.
12. Click OK.
13. Window pick the part and click BUTTON 2.
14. Click OK to close the Laser Toolfit Parameters dialog box.
15. Click BUTTON 2 to optimize all entities.
16. For the optimization start location, pick in the work area near the bottom left of the part.
ProCAM generates the tool paths.
17. Press CTRL + L.
18. In the Set Layers dialog box, turn on Layer 2 and click OK.
A chart displays in the work area to help you understand how the tool paths were
calculated.

Inserting Tool Paths Automatically 2-23

Using the Cutting Database

19. Zoom up on the holes and areas.

The table below explains the cutting conditions ProCAM used to calculate the tool paths.
Hole / Area Cutting Conditions Comment
Hole A – yellow Hole Size 3 Leadin starts at the center of the hole and
.125" diameter leadout ends at hole center.
Hole B - magenta Hole Size 5 A .05" perpendicular leadin and leadout
.5" diameter was generated based on the Hole Size 5
parameters.
Hole C – magenta Internal Boundary Because the hole is greater than the
1.0" diameter maximum .8" for Hole Size 5, ProCAM
used the parameters for Internal
Boundary and generated a .05"
perpendicular leadin and leadout.
.25" arc Arc Radius 4
1.5" line - bright red Length 3
2.0" line - royal blue Length 4
All other lines - green Length 5

2-24 Inserting Tool Paths Automatically

 Creating Micro Joints

Creating Micro Joints

Shaker tabs are created by leaving narrow strips of material between a part and the sheet of
material. These narrow strips of material are commonly referred to as tabs, wire joints or
micro joints. The Laser/Plasma system provides an automatic method that allows two
different types of micro joints to be placed on lines using the Toolfit command. The type and
size of the micro joint are defined with the Shape function in CAD.
When you use the Shape function to create a micro joint:
• Micro joints are inserted with the Point command.
• Micro joint shapes can be positioned only at the endpoints of lines.
• When the part is Toolfit, ProCAM recognizes the micro joints and alters the tool path
accordingly.
• The size of a micro joint can be edited in the Shapes dialog box. However, changing the
micro joint size does not automatically alter the tool paths. The tool paths must be deleted
and generated again.
EXERCISE In this exercise, you create single and corner micro joints, insert them on the part, then
generate the tool paths.
1. Open part file Micro Joint.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.
2. Click the Shape button on the system bar.
3. Click the New button in the Shapes dialog box.
4. Use the following information in the Set Shape dialog box:
Shape Type = Micro Joint
Shape Name = 20C
− The name should identify what you are defining, so you can recognize it in the Shape
list. In this exercise, 020C means it is a .020" Corner Micro Joint. Do not use a
decimal point in the name. A decimal point can be used only to separate a file name
from the extension.
X Size = .20
Micro Joint = Corner Joint
− A Corner Micro Joint defines that both sides of the attach point have micro joints.
When a Corner Micro Joint is used, the tool will be backed off from each corner by
one half the micro joint size. In other words, if you actually want the tool to back off
by .10", you define a Corner Micro Joint with a size of .20". This backs off the tool
.10" from each corner.
5. Click OK.
6. Click the New button again and define a .20" Single Micro Joint with a Shape Name of
20S.

Inserting Tool Paths Automatically 2-25

Creating Micro Joints

A Single Micro Joint defines that only one side (the side that the micro joint is attached
to) has a micro joint. Single Micro Joints would be used along an entity. The tool would
be backed off by the tool radius on the entity that does not have the micro joint attached
and by the full value of the micro joint on the entity that has the micro joint attached.
7. Click OK to close the Shapes dialog box.
E C
8. Break the top horizontal line at
the midpoint (labeled D). D
Since micro joints can be inserted
only at the endpoints, you must break
the entity where you want the micro
joint attached. Then, you insert it at
the endpoint where you broke the
entity.

9. Click the Redraw button on the

Utility toolbar.
A B
10. Click the Point button on the
CAD toolbar.

11. Make sure the Endpoint button on the Snap toolbar is highlighted.
12. Notice that the system bar indicates the type and the name of the shape that is currently
selected.

13. Make sure the On/Off option on the system bar is set to On.
When you use the Point command, if the option is set to Off, points are inserted. If the
option is set to On, the active shape is inserted.
14. Click the Shape button on the system bar.
15. In the Shapes dialog box, select 20C (the Corner Micro Joint), then click OK.
16. Place the .20" Corner Micro Joint at the locations labeled A and B.
17. Click the Shape button again and select20S (the Single Micro Joint), then click OK.
18. Place the .20" Single Micro Joint at the points labeled C, D and E.
EXERCISE Generate the tool paths:

1. Click the CAM button and start Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).
2. Select Fabrication Display on the Setup menu.

2-26 Inserting Tool Paths Automatically

 Creating Micro Joints

3. Remove the check marks from the Stock, Over Travel and Clamps Display options, then
click OK.
4. Click the Zoom All button in the lower right corner of the ProCAM window.

5. Click the Toolfit button on the Laser or Plasma toolbar.

6. In the Laser Tools or Plasma Tools dialog box, click the Edit button.
7. Change the Diameter to .25" in the Set Tool dialog box and click OK.
8. Click OK to close the Laser Tools or Plasma Tools dialog box.

9. Make sure the Outside Toolfit modifier is displayed.

The prompt line reads: SELECT entities to toolfit (button 2 when done).
10. Window pick the entire part and click BUTTON 2.
The Laser Toolfit Parameters dialog box displays.
11. Use the default Material on the General tab.
12. Click the External Boundary tab and set the following options:
− Toolpath Direction = Clockwise
− Start Position = Auto
13. For the leadin and leadout, use the following values:
− Type = Perpendicular
− Length = .2
− Angle = 0
14. Click the Internal Boundary tab and set the following options.
− Toolpath Direction = Counter Clockwise
− Start Position = Long Edge Midpoint
15. For the leadin and leadout, use the following values:
− Type = Perpendicular
− Length = .2
− Angle = 20
16. Click OK.
The prompt line reads: PICK highlighted entity to toolfit (or
button 2 to optimize all).
17. Click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate for optimization
start.
18. Pick in the work area near the lower left corner of the part.
19. Zoom in on areas of the part where the micro joints are placed and notice how the tool
paths have been generated to create a micro joint.

Inserting Tool Paths Automatically 2-27

For More Practice

For More Practice

Skill-Builder Exercise: TOOLFIT 1

• Open the part file Exlas2.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

• Start Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).
Since this part
was drawn at
X0,Y0, it is not
completely on the
sheet. Typically,
when you start
Laser or Plasma,
you will have to
move the part up
onto the sheet.

2-28 Inserting Tool Paths Automatically

 For More Practice

• Use the Move Utility to move the part from X0,Y0 to X11.00,Y11.00.
Select Setup Information on the CAM menu and set the clamps to 0. You can use the
defaults for the other parameters.
• Toolfit the part.
Use a .25" diameter tool. For
this exercise, a large tool
diameter is used to make it
easier to see the cut.
Use a small Arc Leadin and
Leadout.
Instead of clicking BUTTON 2 to
allow ProCAM to automatically
generate an optimized tool path,
use the Endpoint Snap and pick
the right end of the bottom line
as shown in the figure.

Skill-Builder Exercise: TOOLFIT 2

• Open the part file Toolfit2.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.
• Start Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).
• In the Fabrication Display dialog box, turn off the stock, over travel and clamps display.
• Use the defaults for the Setup Information parameters.
• Toolfit the part.
Set up a tool with a .20"
diameter.
Use a Parallel Leadin of 1.00"
and a Perpendicular Leadout
of .250".
Instead of clicking BUTTON 2
to allow ProCAM to
automatically generate an
optimized tool path, use the
Endpoint Snap and pick the
bottom of the horizontal line
on the left.

Inserting Tool Paths Automatically 2-29

For More Practice

Skill-Builder Exercise: TOOLFIT 3

• Open the part file Toolfit3.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

• Start Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).
• Use the Move Utility to move the part onto the sheet.
• Toolfit the part.
− For the slots, use a small Arc Leadin and Leadout for the Internal Boundary. Be sure
to check that it does not cut through the wall.
− For the External Boundary, use a Parallel Leadin long enough to start off the part. Use
an Arc Leadout.
− Instead of clicking BUTTON 2, pick the entities individually.
Select the entities in the following order:
Cut the 4 holes
Cut the 4 slots
Cut around the outside starting the tool path on one of the arms

2-30 Inserting Tool Paths Automatically

Chapter 3 Inserting Tool Paths Semi-Automatically

The Laser and Plasma systems allow you to semi-automatically insert profile, linear, arc, and
circular tool paths. These would typically be used when ProCAM could not automatically
toolfit an area or when the Toolfit function would not produce the desired results.
The Profile Tool Path command is used to insert a profile tool path. The Profile tool path can
be inserted using options for corner type, leadin and leadout, and compensation.
Inserting linear, arc and circular tool paths is almost identical to drawing CAD entities except
that the tool is attached to the entity. For linear, circular and arc tool paths, you have the
ability to determine how the tool will be compensated.
This chapter provides exercises for inserting Profile, Linear and Circular toolpaths.

Inserting Tool Paths Semi-Automatically 3-1

Profile Tool Paths

Profile Tool Paths

The Profile Tool Path command is used to insert a profile tool path offset a distance from a
boundary. A profile tool path is a complex tool path. Generally, a complex tool path
contains more than one tool motion.
A boundary must be inserted before a profile tool path can be inserted.

Inserting a Boundary and Generating a Profile Tool Path

EXERCISE The part that you toolfit in Chapter 1 can also be cut using the Profile Tool Path command as
shown in this exercise.
1. Open the part file Exlas1.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Click the CAM button and start Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).
3. Choose Setup Information on the CAM menu.
4. In the Setup Information dialog box, set the following parameters:
− X Sheet Width = 48.000
− Y Sheet Height = 24.00
− Clamp 1 = 10.000
− Clamp 2 = 40.00
5. Click OK.
The other parameters do not need to be changed for this exercise. You can use the
defaults.
EXERCISE The next step is to identify the entities to be machined and the path the cutter will take. This
is done using the Boundary command.
1. Click Setup on the menu bar.
2. Click Fabrication Display on the Setup menu.
3. In the Fabrication Display dialog box, make sure the Arrow Display On option is
checked.
This option controls the display of the arrows that indicate the direction of machining
when you insert a boundary.
4. Click the Stock and Over Travel Display On options to remove the check marks, then
click OK.
5. Click the Zoom All button in the lower right corner of the ProCAM window.
Turning off the sheet and over travel zone displays makes it easier to work with parts.

3-2 Inserting Tool Paths Semi-Automatically

 Profile Tool Paths

6. Click the Boundary button on the Laser or Plasma toolbar.

− The prompt line reads: PICK endpoint for start of boundary.

− The Endpoint button on the Snap toolbar is highlighted automatically.

7. Pick the left side of the top line as shown.
− The prompt lines changes to: PICK entity for CAM boundary.
− This means to pick the first entity in the boundary to give the boundary direction.
8. Pick anywhere on the top line. Pick here to start
The top line is highlighted and an arrow
showing the direction of the boundary
Pick here
displays at its midpoint. for direction
The prompt line continues to read: PICK
entity for CAM boundary. Pick arc for
last entity
9. For the last entity in the boundary, pick
the .25 radius arc at the top left of the
part.
You do not have to pick each individual
entity in order because ProCAM
automatically chains the boundary to the
arc.
10. Click BUTTON 2.
The middle mouse button (BUTTON 2) tells ProCAM you are finished with a particular
function and you want to go on to the next entity or select a different command. This
button also tells ProCAM to accept the input or execute the command.
The prompt line reads: PICK endpoint for end of boundary.
11. Click BUTTON 2 again.
This step is a shortcut for ending boundaries. After you have picked the last entity in the
boundary and ProCAM has finished putting the boundary around the path, you can click
BUTTON 2 twice (instead of clicking BUTTON 2 and picking the endpoint). This tells
ProCAM that you are done picking entities and you want the current endpoint as the
boundary endpoint.
The boundary is inserted on the part.
ProCAM inserts a boundary only on entities that are displayed in the work area. All
entities you want to insert a boundary on must be displayed in the work area for
chaining. If any part of the boundary path is not displayed, ProCAM beeps, tells you
there is a break in the path, and asks if you want to connect it. If you get this message,
answer No, click the Zoom All button, then continue with the boundary.

Inserting Tool Paths Semi-Automatically 3-3

Profile Tool Paths

EXERCISE You are ready to generate the profile tool path.

1. Click the Profile Tool Path button on the Laser or Plasma toolbar.
2. Set up a .25" diameter tool.
− If you created a tool file in Chapter 1, tool definition 01 should have a .25 diameter
and you can click OK to close the Laser Tools dialog box.
− If you did not create a tool file, select Tool 01 and click Edit. Change the Diameter to
.25 in the Set Tool dialog box and click OK, then click OK to close the Laser Tools
dialog box.

3. Click the Open Boundary modifier to display Closed Boundary.

This modifier should be used when cutting completely around a part or opening.
4. Use the default settings for the other modifiers:

Boundary Direction
The tool path is inserted in the same direction as the boundary.

Perpendicular Leadin
To start the tool path, the part is pierced and a linear move is made into the part an
overlap amount before the boundary start location. The default is for the leadin move to
be perpendicular to the first move in the tool path.

No Leadout
To the end tool path, the retract is at the boundary end with no leadout entity.

Infinite Lookahead
ProCAM checks to see if the tool is gouging the part. If an interference is found, the tool
path is modified to avoid gouging. Interference checking is explained on page 3-6.

Round Corner
On sharp corners, ProCAM inserts an arc with a radius the same size as the tool radius
tangent to the two entities leading up to the corner.

System Compensation Either Offset

ProCAM offsets the tool to the left or right of the boundary compensating for tool size.
The NC program that is generated will already have the tool size compensated for, so no
values would have to be input in the machine's compensation registers.
The prompt line reads: PICK boundary for tool path (button 2 when done).
5. Pick the boundary anywhere on the part. The boundary is highlighted.
6. Click BUTTON 2.

3-4 Inserting Tool Paths Semi-Automatically

 Profile Tool Paths

The first line in the boundary remains highlighted and the prompt line reads: DIGITIZE
compensation side of boundary.
When you select the System Compensation Either Offset modifier, ProCAM asks which
side of the highlighted line you want the tool path to be on. Using either the System
Compensation Left or Right modifier eliminates the need to select the compensation side
after you pick the boundary.
7. Position the pointer above the highlighted
line, then click BUTTON 1.
The tool path is inserted on the part.
The prompt line reads: PICK boundary for tool
path (button 2 when done). If you had multiple
tool paths, you would pick the next one.
Notice that when you use the
Boundary Direction modifier, the direction of
the tool path is the same as the boundary.
You can change the modifier to reverse the
direction or to specify the direction.

Changing the Direction of the Tool Path

EXERCISE The Direction modifier allows you to specify the direction of the Profile tool path.
1. Continue using the part in the previous exercise.

2. Click the Oops button on the Utility toolbar.

3. Click the Boundary Direction modifier

button to display the Counterclockwise
modifier.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE compensation
side of boundary.
4. Pick above the top horizontal line.
Notice the arrows in the center of the
tool path are going in the opposite
direction from the boundary.

Inserting Tool Paths Semi-Automatically 3-5

Profile Tool Paths

Using Leadin and Leadout Modifiers

In the previous exercises, you used the default Perpendicular Leadin and No Leadout. The
Leadin and Leadout modifiers provide several options to control how the tool path is started
and ended.
EXERCISE 1. Continue using the part in the work area from the previous exercise.

2. Click the Oops button on the Utility toolbar.

3. Change to an Arc Leadin and Leadout and generate the tool path to see the effect on the
start and end of the tool path.

4. Click the Oops button on the Utility toolbar.

5. Try a different Leadin and Leadout and generate the tool path.

Interference Checking
The Interference modifiers are used to check the part for tool gouging. The modifiers turn the
Interference Checking on or off, or set the amount of entities that ProCAM will look ahead.
When a Profile tool path is inserted, there are cases where a tool cannot fit within the
geometry defined. If the Profile tool path is not checked for this type of interference, gouging
of the part by the tool occurs.
EXERCISE In this exercise, you insert a Profile tool path with interference checking using a .625
diameter tool around the inside. In the next exercise, you insert a profile on the same part
without interference checking.
1. Open the part file Exlas4.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.
Do not save the changes to the part currently in the work area.

2. Click the CAM button and start Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).
This part already has a
boundary on it starting at the
bottom of the left arc.
You do not need to set the
Setup Information for this
exercise.
3. Choose Set Layers on the
View menu.
4. Turn on Layer 20 - Profile and make it the current layer, then click OK.
5. Change the color.
6. Select Fabrication Display on the Setup menu.
7. Remove the check marks from the Stock, Over Travel and Clamps Display options and
click OK.

3-6 Inserting Tool Paths Semi-Automatically

 Profile Tool Paths

8. Click the Profile Tool Path button on the Laser or Plasma toolbar.
9. Set up a .625" diameter tool.
10. Make sure the following modifier buttons are displayed:

Infinite Lookahead

No Leadin and No Leadout

11. Pick the boundary for the tool path and click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE compensation side of boundary.
12. Digitize to the inside.
Pick close to the highlighted entity when you digitize the side to put the tool path on.
ProCAM automatically
breaks the profile into
two paths.
With Infinite Lookahead
on, ProCAM puts the
cutter only where it can
fit.
In the NC program,
ProCAM would rapid to the start of the first cut, turn on the flame, cut the first path, turn
off the flame, rapid to the start point of the second cut, turn on the flame, cut the second
path, then turn off the flame.
EXERCISE Infinite Lookahead can take time to process on slower machines. Using No Lookahead can
sometimes save a considerable amount of time if you have a part with many entities and you
are sure there will be no interference. In the following exercise, you profile the same part
with No Lookahead instead of Infinite Lookahead.

1. Click the Oops button on the Utility toolbar to remove the Profile tool path on
Exlas4.prt.
If you picked another command before clicking Oops, click the Erase button on the
Utility toolbar and erase the tool path, then click the Profile Tool Path button.

2. Click the Interference Checking modifier button until the No Lookahead modifier
displays.
3. Pick the boundary again.

Inserting Tool Paths Semi-Automatically 3-7

Profile Tool Paths

4. Digitize inside for the

compensation side.
The tool cuts through the
sides of the part. With No
Lookahead on, ProCAM
"blindly" runs the tool
around the profile, not
checking for any
interference.
EXERCISE The Specified Lookahead modifier is used to tell the ProCAM how many entities to look
ahead. This modifier can be used to determine what your machine might do if you plan to use
the machine's compensation. Typically, most machines that have compensation will look
ahead three entities.
In the case of an involute gear profile, the gear tooth is made up of many lines. In the
following exercise, you see what a machine that looks ahead three entities will do cutting the
teeth using a .250 diameter tool.
1. Open the part file Exlas5.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.
This part has a boundary on it starting at the left side.

2. Click the CAM button and start Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).
3. Choose Fabrication Display on the Setup menu.
4. Remove the check mark for the Arrow Display On option.
Turning off the arrows on
the boundary makes the
tool paths easier to see.
5. Remove the check marks
for the Stock Display On,
Over Travel Display On
and Clamps Display On,
then click OK.

6. Click the Redraw button on the Utility toolbar.

7. Click the Zoom All button.
8. Click the Tool button on the system bar.
9. Select the first tool definition and set up a .25" diameter tool, then click OK.
If you created a tool file in Chapter 1, tool definition 01 should have a .25" diameter.

10. Click the Profile Tool Path button on the Laser or Plasma toolbar.

3-8 Inserting Tool Paths Semi-Automatically

 Profile Tool Paths

11. Make sure the Leadin modifier is set to No Leadin.

12. Click the Infinite Lookahead modifier until Specified Lookahead displays.
Use the default 3 for the No. ents. (number of entities) parameter in the InfoBar .
The prompt line reads: PICK boundary for tool path (button 2 when done).
13. Pick the gear, then click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE compensation side of boundary.
14. Digitize to the outside.
Make sure you pick close to the highlighted entity when you digitize the side to put the
tool path on. This is very important when you are starting on an arc. If you digitize a
distance away from the
entity, ProCAM
determines that you
want to be outside the
circle radius, not inside
as in this case.
Notice that the tool cuts
into the tooth to the
right. ProCAM is
looking ahead only three
entities. Therefore, it does not see these entities and cannot compensate for them. If you
wanted to cut the part this way, you would have to use System Compensation with the
Infinite Lookahead modifier, not your machine's compensation.

15. Click the Oops button on the Utility toolbar.

16. Click the Tool button on the system bar.
17. Set up a .125" diameter tool.

18. Click the

Interference Checking
modifier button until the
Infinite Lookahead
modifier displays.
19. Pick to the outside of the
highlighted boundary
segment.
Notice the difference in the tool path.

Inserting Tool Paths Semi-Automatically 3-9

Profile Tool Paths

Using Compensation Modifiers

EXERCISE The Compensation modifiers allow you to tell ProCAM whether you want machine or system
(ProCAM) compensation.
With Machine compensation, ProCAM puts the center of the tool directly on the part
centerline. This would require you to put the tool radius or diameter value in your machine's
offset registers.
With System compensation, ProCAM offsets the tool to the left or right of the boundary
compensating for tool size. The NC program that is generated will have the tool size
compensated for, so no values would have to be put into the machine's offset registers.
1. Open the part file Exlas30.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Click the CAM button and start Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).
Remember, you can turn off the Stock, Over Travel and Clamps display options in the
Fabrication Display dialog box to make the part easier to see.
3. Click the Tool button on the system
bar and set up Tool 01 with a .25"
diameter.
If you created a tool file in Chapter 1,
tool definition 01 should already have
a .25" diameter.
4. Press CTRL + L, turn on Layer 20 -
Profile and make it the current layer,
then click OK.

5. Click the Profile Tool Path

button on the Laser or Plasma Boundary Start Boundary End
toolbar.

Make sure the Compensation

toggle button is set to System Compensation Either Offset.

Click the Leadin modifier button until Perpendicular Leadin displays.

6. In the Perpendicular Leadin dialog box, make sure the Leadin Overlap is 0.00, then click
OK.

7. Set the Leadout modifier to No Leadout.

8. Make sure the Boundary Direction modifier is displayed.

9. Pick the boundary and click BUTTON 2.

3-10 Inserting Tool Paths Semi-Automatically

 Profile Tool Paths

10. At the prompt to digitize

the compensation side,
position the pointer to the
left of the highlighted
boundary segment and
click the left mouse button.
ProCAM inserts the tool
path to the left of the
boundary.

11. Click Oops twice to

remove the Profile tool
path.
System Compensation: Tool Path Offset to the Left

12. Click the

Compensation modifier button until the System Compensation Right Offset modifier
displays.
13. Pick the boundary again and click
BUTTON 2.
ProCAM inserts the tool path
automatically compensated to the
right. The leadin is automatically put
on in the correct direction.

14. Click Oops twice to remove

the profile.

15. Click the Compensation

modifier until the Machine
Compensation Either Offset
displays. System Compensation: Tool Path Offset to the Right
16. Pick the boundary and click BUTTON
2.
17. At the prompt to digitize the side, pick to the left of the highlighted boundary segment.

Inserting Tool Paths Semi-Automatically 3-11

Profile Tool Paths

ProCAM inserts a Profile

tool path along the center
of the boundary and the
leadin is from the left. In
the NC program, the code
for Left Compensation
would be output. You
would then have to input
the value for the tool size
in the machine's
compensation registers.
Machine Compensation: Leadin from Left
18. Click Oops twice to
remove the tool path.

19. Click the

Compensation modifier until
Machine Compensation Right Offset
displays.
20. Pick the boundary.
ProCAM inserts the Profile tool path
on the centerline with the Leadin
coming in from the right.

Machine Compensation: Leadin from Right

Inserting Tool Paths on Multiple Boundaries

EXERCISE For parts that have multiple boundaries, picking each boundary individually could be very
time-consuming. If you select a right or left compensation modifier, you can window pick all
the boundaries.
1. Open the part file Exlas13.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Click the CAM button and start Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).
3. Choose Setup Information on the CAM menu.
4. Set Clamp 1X and Clamp 2X to 0, then click OK.
You can use the defaults for the other parameters.
5. Select Fabrication Display on the Setup menu.
6. Remove the check marks from the Stock and Over Travel Display options, then click OK.

3-12 Inserting Tool Paths Semi-Automatically

 Profile Tool Paths

7. Click the Redraw button on the Utility toolbar.

8. Click the Zoom All button in the lower right corner of the ProCAM window.
9. Select Set Layers on the View menu.
10. Turn on Layer 10 - Boundaries and make it the current layer, then click OK.

11. Click the Boundary button on the Laser or Plasma toolbar.

12. Starting at the left of the top row of lines and going clockwise, insert boundaries
alternating the direction as
shown in the figure.
When this part is machined,
the tool will go up one slot
and down the next.
13. Set up a tool with a small
diameter.
14. Change the color.

15. Click the Profile Tool

Path button on the Laser or
Plasma toolbar.

16. Set the Leadin Alternating Up and Down Boundaries

and Leadout modifiers to No
Leadin and No Leadout.

17. Click the Compensation modifier button until either Machine Comp Right or
Left displays.
It does not matter which side you pick because you have No Leadin and ProCAM will not
output the compensation command in the NC program.
18. Use BUTTON 1 (the left mouse button) to window pick all the boundaries.
Since only the slots have boundaries on them, you can window pick the whole part.
ProCAM generates Profile tool paths only on boundaries.

Inserting Tool Paths Semi-Automatically 3-13

Profile Tool Paths

19. Click BUTTON 2.

The Profile tool paths are
inserted. Your part should
look similar to the figure on
the right.

EXERCISE Selecting the Compensation side also allows you to set the Leadins and Leadouts, then select
everything with a window as shown in the following exercise.
1. Open the part file Exlas12.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.
This part is used to explain how insert a boundary and generate a Profile Tool Path;
however, if you were cutting a part similar to this one, using the Toolfit command would
result in more efficient cutting. The Toolfit command includes more control over leadins
and leadouts as well as options for open area avoidance and automatic optimization.

2. Click CAM button and start Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).

3. Choose Fabrication Display on the Setup menu.
4. Remove the check marks from the Stock Display On, Over Travel Display On and
Clamps Display On check boxes, then click OK.
5. Click the Zoom All button in the lower right corner of the window.
6. Select Set Layers on the View menu.
7. In the Set Layers dialog box, turn on Layer 10 - Boundaries and make it the current layer,
then click OK.
8. Change the color.

9. Click the Boundary button on the Laser or Plasma toolbar.

10. Click the Boundary Type button twice to display the Closed modifier.

11. Make sure the Break Midpoint button is highlighted.

3-14 Inserting Tool Paths Semi-Automatically

 Profile Tool Paths

12. Make sure the Counterclockwise button is highlighted.

13. Window pick the entire part.
14. Click BUTTON 2. Start Point
ProCAM processes all the
information and inserts a boundary on
all the cutouts and on the outside
perimeter.
The figure on the right shows a
section of the part. The start points of
the boundaries are between the
midpoints of the longest line, which
is identified by the two boundary
arrows on the line. This is the
position ProCAM will use to start the
tool path. Start Point

With Break Midpoint Modifier

The figure on the right shows where the boundary and the
tool path would start if the Break Midpoint modifier was
not selected. ProCAM would start at the endpoint of the
longest entity, not the longest line.
Start Point
Without Break Midpoint Modifier
15. Change the color.
16. Press CTRL + L, turn on Layer 20 - Profile and make it current, then click OK.

17. Click the Profile Tool Path button on the Laser or Plasma toolbar.
18. Set up a tool with a .125" diameter.

19. Use Arc Leadin with the following settings:

− Leadin = .1
− Leadin Angle = 0
− Overlap = 0
− Arc Radius = .125"
− Arc Angle = 90

20. Use Arc Leadout with the same settings as Arc Leadin.

Inserting Tool Paths Semi-Automatically 3-15

Profile Tool Paths

21. Click the Compensation modifier until the System Comp Left modifier displays.
22. Window pick all the cutouts, then click BUTTON 2.
− Make sure you do not window pick the entire outside boundary. If you miss any of the
entities for the cutouts, you can either window pick the ones you missed or pick them
individually with BUTTON 1. You can continue to select entities until you click
BUTTON 2.
− All the profiles are inserted on the inside of the cutouts because the boundaries were
put on counterclockwise and Left Compensation was picked.

23. Change the Compensation

to System Comp Right Offset.
24. Pick the outside boundary to cut.
If you had picked the outside
shape when you were picking the
cutouts, the tool path would have
been on the wrong side.
The part should look like the
figure. Note that the arrows and
rapids are turned off in this
figure.

Inserting Multiple Tool Paths

EXERCISE In this exercise, you cut around the inside of the two circles, then cut around the outside.
1. Open the part file Exlas8.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Click the CAM button and start Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).
3. For this exercise, you can use the defaults for the Setup Information parameters.
4. Choose Fabrication Display on the Setup menu.
5. Remove the check marks from the Stock and Over Travel Display On check boxes, then
click OK.
6. Click the Zoom All button in the lower right corner of the window.
7. Turn on Layer 10 - Boundary and make it the current layer.

3-16 Inserting Tool Paths Semi-Automatically

 Profile Tool Paths

8. Put a boundary clockwise around the

outside starting at the bottom of the left vertical
line.

9. Pick the lower circle to put on a boundary.

ProCAM shows the start point at the three
o'clock position.
The prompt line reads: PICK entity for CAM
boundary.
10. Pick the circle somewhere above the center (to
Boundary Start/End
cut the circle counterclockwise).
To cut clockwise, you would pick the circle
below the center. Part with Boundaries Inserted
11. Click BUTTON 2.

12. Pick the upper circle. Pick here for

counterclockwise
13. Pick above the center of the circle for a
counterclockwise direction, then click BUTTON 2.
14. Turn on Layer 20 - Profile and make it the current Boundary Start/End
layer.
15. Change the color.

16. Click the Profile Tool Path button on the Laser

or Plasma toolbar. Pick here for
clockwise
17. Set up a tool with a .125" diameter.

18. Use an Arc Leadin of 0 with a .05" Radius, no Overlap and a 90 degree Arc Angle.

19. Use an Arc Leadout of 0 with a .05" Radius, no Overlap and a 90 degree Arc Angle.

Inserting Tool Paths Semi-Automatically 3-17

Profile Tool Paths

20. Click the Compensation modifier

until System Compensation Either Offset
displays.
21. Pick each circle boundary for the profile,
then press BUTTON 2.
22. For the compensation side, digitize in the
center of each circle as it highlights.
ProCAM inserts a profile tool path on each
circle.
If you picked the outside boundary now,
ProCAM would use the same leadin and
leadout that was used to cut the circles.
This would put a small arc leadin and
leadout on the outside boundary where a
Small Arc Leadin and Leadout
parallel leadin and perpendicular leadout
may work better.

23. Change the Leadin to a Parallel Leadin

of 1.00.

24. Change the Leadout to a Perpendicular

Leadout of .187.
25. Pick the outside boundary for the profile and
digitize to the outside for the compensation.
The part should look like the figure on the
right.
26. Save the part as Las8.prt.
27. Post process the part.

Parallel Leadin, Perpendicular Leadout

3-18 Inserting Tool Paths Semi-Automatically

 Single Entity Tool Paths

Single Entity Tool Paths

The Arc, Circular and Linear Tool Path commands generate a tool path that is a single CAM
entity that does not require a boundary. These commands would typically be used to
manually insert tool paths with or without compensation. Tool paths can be inserted on CAD
entities. Tool paths can also be inserted by digitizing the start and end of the tool path or by
using a Snap command and picking geometry for the start and end.

Inserting a Linear Tool Path with End Compensation

The Linear Tool Path command on the Laser and Plasma toolbars is the same as the Line
command for drawing lines in the CAD system except that a tool path is inserted instead of
a CAD entity. The modifiers are the same as the Line command modifiers.
EXERCISE When EndCmp is picked, ProCAM puts the ends of the tool at the ends of the entities you
define.
1. Open the part file End Comp.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Click the CAM button and start Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).
3. Choose Fabrication Display on the Setup menu.
4. Remove the check marks from the Stock, Over Travel, and Clamps Display On check
boxes, then click OK.
5. Zoom up on the part.

6. Click the Linear Tool Path button on the Laser or Plasma toolbar.
7. Set up a .500" diameter tool.
8. On the system bar, make sure the Offset option is set
to Rgt and Compensation is set to EndCmp.

9. Click the Keyboard button on the Snap toolbar.

10. For the start point, type 5.00 for X start and 4.00 for Y start.
11. For the end point, type 10.00 for X end and 4.000 for Y end.
ProCAM inserts a horizontal
tool path as shown in the
figure on the right.
The tool is offset to the right of
the line and the ends of the
tool are at the endpoints you
Linear Tool Path with End Compensation
specified. This is End
Compensation.

Inserting Tool Paths Semi-Automatically 3-19

Single Entity Tool Paths

12. Click Oops.

13. Click the Redraw button on the Utility toolbar.

14. Change the Compensation parameter on the system bar from EndCmp to NoCmp.
15. For the start point, type 5.000 for X and 4.000 for Y.
16. For the end point, type 10.000 for X and 4.000 for Y.
This time ProCAM puts the
center of the tool at the points
you defined.

Linear Tool Path with No Compensation

Using Reference Compensation

EXERCISE Reference compensation (RefCmp) is used whenever there would be interference from
another entity.
1. Open the part file Ref Comp.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Click the CAM button and start Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).
3. Choose Fabrication Display on the Setup menu.
4. Remove the check marks from the Stock, Over Travel and Clamps Display On check
boxes, then click OK.

5. Click the Linear Tool Path button on the Laser

or Plasma toolbar.
6. Click the Tool button on the system bar and set up a
Endpoint for
.25" diameter tool. Line Start
7. On the system bar, make sure the Compensation
option is set to EndCmp and the Offset is Rgt.

8. Click the Endpoint button on the Snap toolbar.

The prompt line reads: PICK endpoint for line start.
9. Pick the upper endpoint of the right angular line.
The prompt line reads: PICK endpoint for line end.
10. Pick the lower end of the right angular line. Endpoint for
Line End

3-20 Inserting Tool Paths Semi-Automatically

 Single Entity Tool Paths

With EndCmp, the linear tool path punches the line to

the left as shown in this figure. You can use
Reference Compensation, which allows you to
identify entities to avoid.

11. Click Oops to remove the linear tool path.

12. On the system bar, change the Compensation option
to RefCmp.
13. Pick the upper endpoint of the right angular line
again.
The prompt line reads: PICK compensation reference
entity for tool path start.
With EndCmp
ProCAM wants to know what entity to check for tool path cuts line
interference at the start of the line.
14. Pick the top horizontal line.
The prompt line reads: PICK endpoint for line end.
15. Pick the lower end of the right angular line.
The prompt line reads: PICK compensation reference
entity for tool path end.
16. Pick the left angular line.
ProCAM inserts the linear tool path ending it where the
corner of the tool touches the left angular line.
With RefCmp tool
path avoids line

Inserting a Circular Tool Path

The Circular Tool Path command on the Laser and Plasma toolbars is the same as the Circle
command for drawing geometric circles except that instead of inserting a CAD entity, a tool
path is inserted. The modifiers are the same as the Circle command modifiers.

EXERCISE The Offset options on the system bar affect the way ProCAM inserts a circular tool path.
1. Choose New on the File menu to clear the work area.

2. Click the Circle button on the CAD toolbar.

3. Insert three 3" diameter circles anywhere in the work area.

4. Click the CAM button and start Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).

Inserting Tool Paths Semi-Automatically 3-21

Single Entity Tool Paths

5. Click Setup on the menu bar and select the Fabrication Display command.
6. Remove the check marks from the Stock, Over Travel and Clamps Display On check
boxes, then click OK.
7. Click the Zoom All button in the lower right corner of the ProCAM window.
8. Set the Offset option on the system bar
to Lft (left).

9. Click the Circular Tool Path button on the Laser or Plasma toolbar.
10. Set up a .25" diameter tool.

11. Click the Diameter modifier button.

12. Type 3.00 for the Diameter and press ENTER.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate for circle tool path center.

13. Click the Entity Origin button on the Snap toolbar.

The prompt line changes to: PICK entity origin for circle tool path center.
14. Pick anywhere on the left circle.
15. On the system bar, change the Offset option to Center and pick the middle circle.
16. Change the Offset option to Right and pick the third circle.
The finished hole diameter will be different depending on the setting for the Offset
parameter on the system bar (left, center or right). When generating a circle, the cut
direction is counterclockwise. Therefore, if the Offset is set to Left, the finished hole
diameter will be the same as the specified hole diameter. If set to Center, the center of the
tool is positioned directly on the part path. If set to Right, the finished hole diameter will
be larger by two times the tool diameter.

Left Offset Center Right Offset

3-22 Inserting Tool Paths Semi-Automatically

Chapter 4 Working with Tool Paths

After you have inserted tool paths on a part, you can use commands on the Laser/Plasma and
Utility toolbars to manipulate tool paths. This chapter explains the functions you can use to
reduce the time required to cut a part and get the most out of your machine.
This chapter includes exercises for creating a part grid layout, reviewing the order of tool
paths, reordering CAM cycles and optimizing tool paths.

Working with Tool Paths 4-1

Utility Toolbar Commands

Utility Toolbar Commands

The commands on the Utility toolbar can be used to manipulate tool paths (CAM entities)
with the following exceptions and restrictions:

Break
Toolpaths can be broken into two or more cycles from one cycle. The Break utility with the
Explode modifier can be used to reduce a linear, arc, or circular tool path into multiple
cycles.

Mirror
If a tool is in a fixed station, the angle of the tool remains the same after it has been mirrored.
If the tool is in an indexable station, the angle of the tool will reflect the mirror.

The Mirror command should be used with caution on a special tool in an indexable station
because the tool angle may not be correct.

Rotate
If the tool is in a fixed station, the angle of the tool remains the same after it has been rotated.
If the tool is in an indexable station, the angle of the tool rotates by the amount of the rotation
angle.

Scale
The tool path locations are scaled; however, the tool size is not scaled.

Trim
Linear and arc tool paths can be trimmed. When trimming tool paths, the total number of cuts
in the tool path remains the same. The distance between cuts increases or decreases
depending on whether the cycle is lengthened or shortened.

Edit
The Edit Utility modifiers can be used on tool paths as explained below:
Geometric Properties

Depending on the type of tool path selected, the following properties can be
changed: Start and End Location, Angle, Length, Radius/Diameter, and Start and End
Angle.

4-2 Working with Tool Paths

 Utility Toolbar Commands

Color and Layer

The Color modifier changes the color of the tool path to the current drawing color.
Colors can help you distinguish tool paths.

The Layer modifier changes the layer of the tool path to the current layer. Layers
can be used to suppress the display of certain entities to make it easier to select specific
entities and to improve repaint speed on slower computers.
Since the Laser and Plasma systems rely heavily on selecting objects to perform specific
tasks (for example, picking CAD entities for toolfitting, picking CAM entities for
optimizing and sequencing), it is very beneficial to make use of layer and color
assignments for both CAD and CAM entities.
When setting up the CAM system, establish a convention for color and layer usage. If
conventions are followed, it makes it easier for users to work with files created by other
users. A basic convention may be to distinguish (by color and layer) the CAD entities that
represent inside edges from outside edges.
Tool

The Tool modifier changes the tool of the tool path to the current tool. Changing the
tool does not alter or recalculate the tool path itself. Typically, this function is used on
single entity tool paths, not cycles.
Direction

The Direction modifier changes the direction of a linear, circular or arc tool path.

Working with Tool Paths 4-3

Automated Part Grid Layout

Automated Part Grid Layout

The Move utility Part Grid Layout modifier allows you to copy/move parts in X and Y.
This modifier functions with CAD and CAM entities. The entities that are copied do not
have to form a closed boundary.
This function automatically calculates the maximum number of parts in X and Y that will fit
within a specified sheet size given the part spacing, sheet borders and the part extents.
Creating a Part Grid Layout
EXERCISE In this exercise, you create a 6x4 layout to fill a sheet.
1. Open the part file Exlas15.prt or Explas15.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Click the CAM button on the CAD toolbar.

3. Click the Zoom All button in the lower right corner of the ProCAM window.

4. Click the Move button on the Utility toolbar.

5. Click the Part Grid Layout button on the modifier toolbar.

The prompt line reads: PICK entities to move (button 2 when done).
6. Window pick the part, then click BUTTON 2.
The Part Layout dialog box displays.
7. In the Area section, click the Use CAM Entities option.
You want ProCAM to use CAM entities to calculate the maximum number of parts in X
and Y that will fit within the specified sheet size.
8. Change the Stock Size X value to 72.
9. Change the Stock Size Y value to 48.
10. Change the Part Spacing X and Part Spacing Y to .75".
11. Click the Recalculate button.
12. Click the Preview button.
A graphical representation displays in the work area. The 6x4 part grid that displays is
calculated using the part spacing, sheet borders, part extents and the sheet size (72"x48")
in the Part Grid Layout dialog box. The solid rectangle in the work area shows the current
sheet size for this part, which is set in the Setup Information dialog box. You can adjust
the number of parts to fit the grid on the sheet.

4-4 Working with Tool Paths

 Automated Part Grid Layout

13. Press and hold down

button 1 (the left mouse
button), then move the
cursor around the layout.
As you move the mouse,
the layout changes.
14. Change the layout back
to the 6x4 grid, then click
BUTTON 2 to exit Preview
mode.
15. Click OK to close the
dialog box.
The part grid displays.

Working with Tool Paths 4-5

Order Utility

Order Utility
The Order command on the Utility toolbar allows you to review the order of tool path
cutting by running through the part or by stepping through the part one cutting movement at
a time. The Order utility also has options that allow you to reorder the cycles in a part or
move a group of cycles from one location in the sequence to another location.

Simulating Material Removal

The Order utility provides a solids-like tool path simulation for the verification of machining
operations. Running this simulation helps confirm the tool paths and can reduce the need for
dry runs on the machine tool.
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file Exlas15.prt or Explas15.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.
If this part is currently open, do not save the changes.

2. Click the Order button on the Utility

toolbar.
The part displays on a solid sheet.
The modifier toolbar and the Simulation
toolbar display.

The Simulation toolbar consists of buttons and options to control the simulation.

4-6 Working with Tool Paths

 Order Utility

3. Click the Fabrication Display dialog box button.

This dialog box contains options to customize the simulation. You can display the part as
a wireframe or solid and you can highlight one cycle at a time or simulate all the cutting
movements. The default setting for the Simulation Type is Highlight Wire.
4. Make sure Simulate Wire Frame is selected for the Simulation Type, then click OK.
5. Click the Forward 1 Cut button on the simulation toolbar several times.
ProCAM simulates the material removal process from the sheet by displaying wire frame
cuts. As you step through the part, the current tool path is highlighted.
6. Click the Fabrication Display dialog box button, change the Simulation Type to Simulate
Solid, then click OK.
7. Click the Reset to Start button.
8. Click the Go to End button.
ProCAM simulates the material removal process by displaying solid cuts. You can control
the speed using the slide bar on the Simulation toolbar.
Reordering CAM Cycles
The Order utility provides two methods for manually changing the cutting order. These
methods can be used when you have added cycles to a part or when automatic reordering
with the Toolfit command or the Optimize command does not produce the machining order
you want.
Reordering CAM Cycles
EXERCISE The Reorder modifier allows you to reorganize CAM cycles. ProCAM post processes cycles
in the order they were inserted. If you add a cycle, you may want to change the order. Notice
that the rapid lines on the .5" holes do not go from one hole to the next. In this exercise, you
use the Reorder modifier to change the order of the small holes.
1. Open the part file Exlas15.prt or Explas15.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.
If this part is open in the work area, do not save the changes.

2. Click the Order button on the Utility toolbar.

The part displays on a solid sheet.
3. Click the Fabrication Display dialog box button.
4. Make sure Highlight Wire Frame is selected for the Simulation Type, then click OK.

5. Click the Reorder modifier button.

The Step modifier changes to the After modifier. Leave this button highlighted.
The prompt line reads: PICK 1st CAM entity to reorder.

Working with Tool Paths 4-7

Order Utility

6. Pick the hole indicated by the arrow.

The prompt line reads: PICK next CAM
entity to reorder.
7. Moving in a counterclockwise direction,
pick the next hole.
8. Continue picking all the small holes, then
click BUTTON 2.

9. Click the Redraw button.

The rapid lines change to show the new
order (shown in the figure below).

Moving Cycles
The Order utility Move modifier allows you to move cycles from one location in the tool path
order to another. You choose the first and last cycles to be moved and where to move them.
Only the order of the cycles is changed, not the physical location.
EXERCISE 1. Continue using the part file Exlas15.prt or Explas15.prt in the work area.
The current order cuts the rectangular cycles in the center first, then the .5" holes and
finally the .75" holes. You can change the order so that the large holes are cut after the
rectangular tool path.
2. Click a blank toolbar button.
2
3. Click the Order button on the Utility
toolbar. 1

4. Click the Move modifier button.

5. Leave the After modifier button

highlighted.
The prompt line reads: SELECT 1st entity
for order change.
6. Pick the hole labeled 1.
The prompt line reads: SELECT last entity
for order change.
7. Pick the hole labeled 2.
All of the .75" holes are highlighted.

4-8 Working with Tool Paths

 Order Utility

The prompt line reads: SELECT CAM

entity that order change will be after.
8. Pick the rectangular tool path in the
center.

9. Click the Redraw button.

The tool path order should look like the
figure on the right.
10. Run the tool path simulation to see the
revised cutting order.

Working with Tool Paths 4-9

Optimizing Tool Paths

Optimizing Tool Paths

The Optimize command on the Laser or Plasma toolbar changes the order of existing CAM
cycles to minimize movement between cycles and reduce the time required to cut the part.
You can use this command to optimize cycles to the shortest distance from one cycle to the
next. There are two types of Optimization: Single Window and Grid.
Optimization and tool sorting can be critical to getting the most out of a machine.
Automatic optimization and tool sorting allow the programmer to create cycles on a part
without taking into full consideration the most efficient way to cut the part. Once the tool
paths are inserted, optimization and tool sorting can be run to best utilize the machine run
time.

If you use macros, we recommend you optimize before creating the macro. If you want to
optimize after tool paths are part of a macro, you have to use the Edit Macro Utility before
optimizing.

Using Single Window Optimization

The Single Part modifier optimizes the tool paths within an area defined by a single window
and is typically used when there are relatively few CAM cycles on a sheet.
EXERCISE In the previous two exercises, you learned how to change the cutting order manually. In this
exercise, you use the Optimize command and automatically reorder the cutting cycles.
1. Open the part file Exlas15.prt or Explas15.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.
If this part is open in the work area, do not save the changes.

2. Click the CAM button on the CAD

toolbar.
3. Zoom up on the part.
The rapid lines run back and forth across
the part. This is the actual tool path
movement you would get if you did not
Optimize.

4. Click the Optimize button on the

Laser or Plasma toolbar.

5. Click the Single Part modifier button.

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 Optimizing Tool Paths

6. Leave all the modifiers highlighted.

When this modifier is highlighted, ProCAM attempts to find the shortest distance
between cycles. Typically, this modifier is used with the Tool Sorting modifier.

When the Next Closest Hit/Pairing modifier is highlighted, ProCAM uses the fastest
method, which is always the next closest cycle. This method starts at one entity and
moves to the next closest entity, then to the next closest, etc., until all entities have been
cut.

The Tool Sorting modifier can be used with or without the Optimize modifier.
When the Tool Sorting modifier is selected without the Optimize modifier, ProCAM
finds all CAM cycles of the same tool and sequences the cycles in the order the CAM
cycles were inserted. When you select this modifier and the Optimize modifier, ProCAM
finds the shortest path between those CAM cycles.

When the Double Check modifier is highlighted, ProCAM checks the optimized
path for common optimization errors and determines if the moves can be reordered into a
better path. Both Next Closest Cut and Pairing may produce moves within an operation
that can be modified to produce better results.
The Reverse Direction modifier is not used in the Plasma/Laser system.
The prompt line reads: PICK entities to optimize (button 2 when done).
7. Window pick the complete part, then click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: SELECT CAM entity that order change will be after. This prompt is
used when you are optimizing only a portion of the cycles and you want them to be done
after other cycles on the part.
8. Click BUTTON 2.
− In this exercise, all the cuts will be optimized, so you can click BUTTON 2 to continue.
− The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate for optimization start. This allows you to
determine where the first cut will be.
9. Position your cursor in work area above the part near the center and click BUTTON 1.

10. Click the Redraw button.

11. Click the Order button on the Utility toolbar.

12. Click the Forward 1 Cut button on the simulation toolbar to step through the tool
paths.

Working with Tool Paths 4-11

Optimizing Tool Paths

Optimizing Large Sheets of Parts with Grid Optimization

The Grid Optimization modifier optimizes a sheet of parts by sequencing CAM cycles within
multiple windows. The windows are placed on the sheet to form a grid of windows. Grid
optimization can greatly reduce the time required to optimize large sheets of parts.
EXERCISE In this exercise, the Part Grid Layout function is used to move and copy the part multiple
times, then the grid is optimized.
1. Open the part file Exlas17.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Click the CAM button and start Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).
3. Click Setup Information on the CAM menu, change the following parameters, then click
OK:
− Sheet size = X36.00, Y24.00
− Clamps = set both clamps to 0.0
4. Zoom up the part.

5. Click the Toolfit button to insert the tool paths on the holes.
6. In the Laser Tools or Plasma Tools dialog box, click the Edit button.
7. Change the Diameter to .015 in the Set Tool dialog box and click OK twice to close the
tools dialog boxes.

8. Make sure the Outside Toolfit modifier is displayed.

The prompt line reads: SELECT entities to toolfit (button 2 when done).
9. Window pick the entire part and click BUTTON 2.
The Laser Toolfit Parameters dialog box displays.
10. Use the default Material on the General tab.
11. Click the External Boundary tab and set the following options:
− Toolpath Direction = Clockwise
− Start Position = The Start Position option does not apply in this exercise since you are
going to pick the start location on each entity.
12. For the leadin and leadout, use the following values:
− Type = Parallel
− Length = .1
− Angle = 0
− Overlap = 0
13. Click the Internal Boundary tab and set the following options:
− Toolpath Direction = Counter Clockwise
− Start Position = Long Edge Midpoint

4-12 Working with Tool Paths

 Optimizing Tool Paths

14. For the leadin and leadout, use the following values:
− Type = Arc
− Length = .030
− Leadin/Leadout Angle = 0
− Leadin/Leadout Overlap = 0
− Arc Radius = .030"
− Arc Sweep Angle = 90
15. Click the Holes tab and set the following:
− Change the Maximum Diameter for Hole Size 5 to .60".
− For Hole Size 3, check the Start and End at Hole Center option.
− Select Hole Size 5 in the Show Leadin/Leadout parameters for list box and set the
Leadin and Leadout to Perpendicular with a .10" Length at a 30 degree Angle.
16. Click OK.
The prompt line reads: PICK highlighted entity to toolfit (or button 2 to optimize all).
In this exercise, you pick the entities individually instead of clicking BUTTON 2 to allow
ProCAM to automatically generate an optimized tool path.

17. Leave the Digitize button highlighted on the Snap toolbar.

18. Pick the holes in random
order without considering the
most efficient cutting order.
An example is shown in the
figure on the right.

19. Click the Endpoint

button on the Snap toolbar
and pick the outside of the
part near the bottom of the
left horizontal line.
The tool paths are inserted on
the holes and the outside
boundary.

20. Click the Move button on the Utility toolbar.

21. Click the Part Grid Layout modifier button.

The prompt line reads: PICK entities to move (button 2 when done).
22. Window pick the part, then click BUTTON 2.

Working with Tool Paths 4-13

Optimizing Tool Paths

23. In the Part Layout dialog box, change the following parameters:
− Select the Stock Size X and Stock Size Y options (the values do not matter for this
exercise)
− Change the Number of Parts X and Number of Parts Y to 3
− Select Use CAM Entities
− Remove the check marks from the four border options
− Change all the borders to 1"
24. Click the Recalculate button, then click OK.
The grid of nine parts displays.

25. Click the Zoom All button.

Note that if the boundary arrows display, you can turn off the Arrow Display On option in
the Fabrication Display dialog box.

26. Click the Redraw button to refresh the display in the work area.

27. Click the Optimize button on the Laser or Plasma toolbar.

28. Click the Grid Optimization modifier button.

29. Make sure all the modifiers are highlighted except Alternating Quadrants.

30. Click the Keyboard button on the Snap toolbar.

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 Optimizing Tool Paths

31. Enter the following information in the InfoBar for the optimization grid parameters (see
the figure below):
− X Start = 1.00 Y Start = 1.00
X and Y Start are the absolute coordinates for the lower left corner of the part and
define the point (origin) where optimization will start.
− X width = 10.00 Y height = 6.00
These values are usually the width and height of the part. They determine the area of
the optimization.
− X dist = 11.00 Y dist = 7.00
These parameters are the distance between the origin of one part to the origin of the
next.
− No. X = 3 No. Y = 3
This is the actual number of parts to be optimized in each axis.

32. Click BUTTON 2.

The prompt line reads: PICK entities to optimize (button 2 when done).
33. Window pick all the entities, then click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: SELECT CAM entity that order change will be after.
34. Click BUTTON 2. ProCAM optimizes the parts.
Clicking BUTTON 2 indicates that this group of cycles does not follow any other cycles.

Working with Tool Paths 4-15

Optimizing Tool Paths

35. Keep the same values in the InfoBar and try optimizing the part grid with different
modifiers unselected.
For example, unselect the Horizontal modifier, then optimize. This time, ProCAM moves
in a vertical direction instead of horizontally.
Working with the Optimization Manager
The Optimization Manager dialog box contains three tabs for customizing Optimization:
• Optimization Levels tab: Four optimization levels can be defined so that entities in level 1
are optimized first, then entities in level 2, etc.
• Order Groups tab: Order groups can be defined so that the relative order of entities in the
group is maintained during optimization.
• Optimization Groups tab: Optimization groups can be defined so that entities within the
group are optimized together.
Note that the Parting Hits tab is used only in the Punch system.
Using Levels to Define the Optimization Order
The Optimization Levels tab in the Optimization Manager allows you to define up to 4 levels
of optimization. Levels define the order the entities are optimized starting with level 1 and
continuing with levels 2-4 in order. Entities that are not in a level are optimized after entities
in levels.
Levels are an excellent way to define generally how to cut a part. For example, the holes
within a part might be assigned to Level 1 and the outside entities on the part might be
assigned to Level 2. If there were parts-in-parts (parts inside the holes of bigger parts), these
would be assigned to Levels 1 and 2 with the bigger parts in Levels 3 and 4.
EXERCISE The part in this exercise consists of 2 parts with internal and external entities. You will create
Optimization levels to cut the part by first cutting the inside entities in the top part, then the
inside entities in the bottom part, and finally the outside entities.
1. Open the part file Exlas40.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Click the CAM button on the CAD toolbar.

3. Click the Optimize button on the Laser toolbar.

Assign entities to levels:

4. Click the Optimize Manager modifier button.

The Optimization Manager dialog box displays.
5. Click the Optimization Levels tab.
6. Click the Level 1 button.
The prompt line reads: PICK entities for optimization level 1.

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 Optimizing Tool Paths

Since no entities have been assigned to a level, all the entities display in their entity color.
This indicates that they can be added to this level.
7. Window pick the 9 entities in the upper part
(the entities inside the rectangle in the figure on
the right).
The entities you picked are highlighted
indicating that they are now part of level 1.
8. Click the Level 2 button.
The entities you picked for Level 1 are gray,
which indicates that they are part of another
level and cannot be picked. Entities can belong
to only one level.
9. Window pick the 9 entities in the lower part.
The entities are highlighted indicating that they
are now part of level 2.
10. Click the Level 3 button.
11. Window pick the remaining entities in the part
that comprise the part outside.
12. Click each level button to review the entities
that are on each level.
When you click a button, the entities in that
level are highlighted.
13. Click OK to close the dialog box.
Optimize the part:

14. Click the Single Part Optimization modifier button.

15. Window pick all the entities in the part and click BUTTON 2.
16. Click BUTTON 2 twice to start the optimization.
The part is optimized using the levels that you defined.
Step through the toolpath:

17. Click the Order button on the Utility toolbar.

18. Click the Step button on the Simulation toolbar and step through the toolpath.
Notice that the toolpath starts on the level 1 entities with cutting from the smallest to the
largest tool.

Working with Tool Paths 4-17

Optimizing Tool Paths

Using Order Groups to Define the Optimization Order

The Order Groups tab in the Optimization Manager allows you to define a group of entities
whose relative order is maintained during optimization.
EXERCISE In this exercise, you reorder the external circles so they are cut at an angle of 45 degrees
starting at the top right corner as shown in the figure below. The order in which the internal
circles are cut does not matter for this exercise.
1. Open the part file Exlas42.prt in the
\procad\parts\learn folder.
This part has internal and external circles.

2. Click the CAM button on the CAD

toolbar.

3. Click the Optimize button on the Laser

toolbar.
4. Click the Optimize Manager modifier button.
The Optimization Manager dialog box
displays.
5. Click the Optimization Levels tab.
6. Click the Level 1 button.
Since no entities have been assigned to a level, all the entities display in their entity color.
This indicates that they can be added to this level.
7. Pick all the inside circles.
You can window pick all the
inside circles in a row. If you
do not include the entire
outside circle in the selection
box, the outside circles will
not be picked.
8. Click BUTTON 2.
Putting the inside circles in
Level 1 ensures they will be
cut first.
9. Click OK to close the
Optimization Manager.

4-18 Working with Tool Paths

 Optimizing Tool Paths

Reorder the outer cuts:

10. Click the Order button on the Utility toolbar.

11. Click the Reorder button.

12. Leave the After modifier highlighted.

When this modifier is selected (highlighted),
the cycles picked for moving are moved after
a selected cycle. If not selected, the cycles
picked for moving are moved before a
selected cycle.
13. Pick the outer circles in the order shown in the
figure on the right to reorder all the outer cuts
to follow the pattern shown above.

Assign the reordered cuts to an Order Group to maintain the order of the entities during
optimization:

1. Click the Optimize button on the Laser toolbar.

2. Click the Optimize Manager modifier button.

The Optimization Manager dialog box displays.
3. Click the Order Groups tab.
4. Click the Create button.
5. Pick the outside entities in the same order, then click BUTTON 2.
The entities you selected display in gray.
6. Click OK to close the Manager.
Optimize the part:

7. Click the Single Part Optimization modifier button.

8. Window pick all the entities in the part and click BUTTON 2.
9. Click BUTTON 2 again.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate for optimization start.

Working with Tool Paths 4-19

Optimizing Tool Paths

10.Click in the work area near the lower right

circle.
The part is optimized. The entities in Level
1 are cut first, then the outside entities.
Step through the toolpath:

11. Click the Order button on the Utility

toolbar.
12. Click the Fabrication Display dialog box
button on the Simulation toolbar.
13. Set the Simulation Type to Simulate Wire
Frame, then click OK.
14. Click the Go to End button on the
Simulation toolbar.
Notice that the Level 1 entities are cut first, then the outside entities in the order you
specified.
Using Optimization Groups
The Optimization Groups tab in the Optimization Manager allows you to define the entities
that are to be optimized together and cut one after the other according to the Optimization
parameters.
EXERCISE In this exercise, you use Optimization Groups to cut all entities of the same type together
(i.e., all squares, the circles, then rectangles), then the cutout is cut.
1. Open the part file Exlas41.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.
This part consists of 2 parts each with internal and external entities.

2. Click the CAM button on the CAD toolbar.

Assign entities to Optimization groups:

3. Click the Optimize button on the Laser toolbar.

4. Click the Optimize Manager modifier button.

The Optimization Manager dialog box displays.
5. Click the Optimization Groups tab.
6. Click the Create button.

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 Optimizing Tool Paths

Pick circles
7. Pick all the circles, then click BUTTON 2.
8. Click the Create button.
9. Pick all the squares, then click BUTTON 2.
10. Click the Create button.
11. Pick all the rectangles, then click BUTTON 2.
12. Click OK to close the Optimization Manager.
Optimize the part:

13. Click the Single Part Optimization modifier button.

14. Window pick all the entities in the part and click BUTTON 2.
15. Click BUTTON 2 twice to start the optimization.
The part is optimized and outside entities are cut in the groups you specified.
Step through the toolpath:

16. Click the Order button on the Utility toolbar.

17. Click the Step button on the Simulation toolbar and step through the toolpath.
Notice that all entities of the same type are cut in order.

Working with Tool Paths 4-21

Repositioning

Repositioning
The Reposition command is used to manually or automatically reposition the sheet to allow
additional cutting. ProCAM automatically shifts all clamping, over travel zones and dead
zones after a reposition is done.
Initially, ProCAM creates a table limit zone based on the machine X and Y size. If all the
tool paths are within the table limit zone, you can post process the part without repositioning.
You need to insert reposition zones only if all the tool paths in a part are not completely
within the table limits.
A Reposition zone is an actual CAM entity that can be deleted, moved and copied just like
any other entity. ProCAM identifies reposition zones by displaying REP1, REP2, REP3, etc.
The cross mark next to REP is the location of the reposition zone entity. Pick this location to
delete, move or copy a reposition zone.

The repositioning function uses colors to show the status of entities. To make it easier to
see the color changes, you may want to use a black background and set the highlight color
to white. These settings are changed by selecting Screen Display on the Setup menu.

Using Automatic Repositioning

When you select automatic repositioning, ProCAM inserts reposition entities at the proper
location and in the correct sequence to cut all the CAM entities in part. ProCAM also
determines the X position of the hold down pads and allows you to define the Y position to
ensure that the hold down pads engage the material and are not placed in holes.
The following conditions apply to automatic repositioning:
• ProCAM repositions only in the positive X direction (forward), not in a negative X
direction.
• During repositioning, ProCAM automatically sequences the reposition after the last cut in
each table travel zone.
• ProCAM does not automatically break tool paths that cross a travel zone. If the tool path
fits entirely within the table limits, ProCAM repositions to cut the entire tool path with
one reposition. If the tool path is longer than the table limits, ProCAM will not
automatically insert reposition zones. You have to break the tool path and reposition
manually.
If ProCAM is unable to reposition automatically, ProCAM changes the highlighting from the
Automatic Reposition modifier to the Edit Reposition Zone modifier. This indicates you must
reposition manually.

4-22 Working with Tool Paths

 Repositioning

EXERCISE In this exercise, you reposition automatically, then optimize the part.

1. Open the part file Exlas33.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Click the CAM button and start Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).
3. Use the following Setup information:
− X Sheet Width = 108.00
− Y Sheet Height = 24.00
− Clamp 1 = 15.00
− Clamp 2 = 55.00
It is very important to set the clamp locations correctly in the Setup Information dialog
box. ProCAM uses this information to reposition the clamps. If this information is not set,
ProCAM displays an error message indicating that the clamps are not set.

4. Click the Toolfit button on the Laser or Plasma toolbar.

5. Set up tool 01 with a .25" diameter.
If you created a tool file in Chapter 1, tool definition 01 should have a .25" diameter.

6. Select the Inside Toolfit modifier.

7. Select the Open Area Avoidance modifier.

8. Window pick only the cutouts and click BUTTON 2.
9. In the Laser Toolfit Parameters dialog box, click the Internal Boundary tab and select
None for the Leadin and Leadout.
10. Click the Holes tab, then select each Hole Size in the Show Leadin/Leadout parameters for
list box and set the Leadin and Leadout to None.
11. Click OK to close the dialog box, then click BUTTON 2 to optimize automatically.
The figure below shows the tool paths.

12. Click the Reposition button.

Working with Tool Paths 4-23

Repositioning

13. Click the Automatic Reposition button.

ProCAM displays whatever reposition zones are required. The reposition zones are
identified by REP1, REP2, REP3, etc. For this part, only one reposition zone is needed.

The cross next to REP is the pick location to delete, erase or move a
reposition zone.
14. Move the cursor up and down in the work area.
− You can see the hold downs moving with the cursor. This allows you to position the Y
location of the hold downs in an area that has material before the clamps are released.
− ProCAM determines the X hold down location and positions the default Y hold down
location at the top of the sheet.
− You cannot change the X location. However, you can change the Y hold down
location by digitizing or using any other Snap command. If you wanted to accept the
default Y location, you would click button 2.
15. Position the hold downs in an area where there is material and click button 1 to digitize
the position.
− If your machine needed additional reposition zones, you would digitize the
coordinates for the hold downs in these zones.
− Your part should look like the figure below.
− When Automatic Repositioning is completed, ProCAM highlights the Edit Reposition
Zone modifier.

The Automatic Repositioning sequenced the reposition after the last CAM cycle in the
previous work limits. This part was optimized when the tool paths were generated and after
repositioning, the cutting order does not need to be changed.

4-24 Working with Tool Paths

 Repositioning

However, even though ProCAM inserts reposition entities in the correct sequence (CAM
cycles, reposition, CAM cycles, etc.), for some parts the CAM cycles within each reposition
zone may not be optimized for the shortest path. To process the cycles more efficiently, you
can Optimize the part. Optimization tries to find the shortest path. If the reposition zones are
in the correct sequence, Optimization recognizes reposition zones and optimizes all tool
paths within one reposition zone before optimizing tool paths within the next reposition zone.
If you Optimize after inserting reposition zones, make sure the reposition zone is selected
(highlighted) when you window pick the part. You can either enclose the entire reposition
zone in the selection box or single pick the reposition zone marker (REP1, REP2, etc.).

Repositioning Manually
Manual repositioning allows interactive repositioning by prompting for the next reposition
location. You can use any of the Snap commands to position the reposition zone relative to
the X-axis. Because repositioning is a CAM entity, it is inserted into the order list as the next
entity in the cutting order.
In manual repositioning, you are responsible for making sure the location and order are
correct for the reposition entity. ProCAM does not check to see that work holders or hold
down pads are not placed in holes and no clamp avoidance (avoiding cutting or rapiding into
clamps) is performed unless the Check Clamp Deadzone modifier is checked.
EXERCISE In the following exercise, you reposition the sheet manually, then optimize the tool paths for
more efficient cutting.
1. Open the part file Laser Repo.prt or Plasma Repo.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Click the CAM button on the CAD toolbar.

3. Click the Reposition button on the Laser or Plasma toolbar.

4. Click the Auto Pick button on the modifier toolbar.

ProCAM selects the tool paths that are completely within the table limit zone including
the tool path that interferes with the clamp deadzone area.
You can assign tool paths to reposition zones at any time. In this exercise, you assign tool
paths to the table limit zone, then create an additional reposition zone and assign the tool
paths to that zone.

5. Click the Check Clamp Deadzone modifier.

Working with Tool Paths 4-25

Repositioning

ProCAM unselects the tool path that is partially in the clamp deadzone.
Most laser and plasma machines do not have clamps. The FANTUTLP and FANTUTPL
post processors used in these exercises support clamps to demonstrate this feature.

6. Click the Manual Reposition button on the modifier toolbar.

7. Move the cursor in the work area.
You can see the over travel zone with the clamps and hold downs moving with the cursor.
This allows you to position the hold downs in an area that has material before the clamps
are released and position the clamps away from any cutting that will be done in this zone.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate for repositioning. You can use any of the Snap
modifiers to pick a position; however, Digitize works most of the time.
8. Position the reposition zone so that the tool paths will not interfere in the clamp deadzone
and the remaining tool paths are included, then click BUTTON 1.
The prompt line reads: ENTER X repositioning increment amount. This is the amount the
clamp will move. The X amount parameter in the InfoBar indicates the increment based
on the X coordinate you digitized.
9. Press ENTER to accept the X amount shown in the InfoBar.
ProCAM displays REP1 at the X and Y coordinates you digitized. The over travel zone
and the clamps display at the new locations.

10. Click the Auto Pick modifier button.

ProCAM selects all the remaining tool paths including the one that interfered with the
clamps in the table travel zone. The End marker changes from red to green and is located
at the end of the last tool path in the active zone.
11. Click BUTTON 2.

12. Click the Previous and Next buttons to view the entities in the table limit zone
and Rep1.
Review the tool path sequence:
1. In the Fabrication Display dialog box, make sure the Simulation Type is set to either
Simulate Wire Frame or Simulate Solid.

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 Repositioning

2. Click the Order button on the Utility toolbar.

3. Click the Reset to Start button on the Simulation toolbar.
4. Select Next OT Zone for the End, then click the Go to End button.
The simulation stops at the end of the table limit zone.
5. Click the Go to End button again to complete the sequence.
After repositioning, you can Optimize the tool paths within each reposition zone to cut the
part more efficiently.

1. Click the Optimize button on the Laser toolbar.

2. Click the Single Part Optimization button on the modifier toolbar.

The prompt line reads: PICK entities to optimize (button 2 when done).
3. Window pick all the tool paths and the reposition zone.
Make sure the reposition zone is selected (highlighted). You can either enclose the entire
reposition zone in the selection box or single pick REP1.
4. Click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: SELECT CAM entities that order change will be after.
5. Click BUTTON 2.
− Clicking BUTTON 2 indicates that this group of tool paths does not follow any other
tool paths.
− The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate for optimization start.
6. Pick a location at the bottom left of the part and click BUTTON 1.
ProCAM optimizes the tool paths in the table limit zone, then optimizes the tool paths in
REP1.

7. Click the Redraw button.

8. Click the Order button and run the tool path simulation to see the difference after
optimizing.
Breaking Tool Paths That Cross the Table Limit Zone
If the Edit Reposition modifier is selected and you click the Break Entity modifier, any
highlighted entities that cross the active reposition zone border are broken so that the portion
of the entity that lies within the active reposition zone can be assigned to that zone.
The entity is physically broken. For example, a line would be broken into two line segments.
Circles, macro calls and macro grids may also be broken. ProCAM may break a tool path into
a smaller linear, arc, or circular tool path or macro calls depending on the original tool path.
Once broken, the entities can only be put together manually.

Working with Tool Paths 4-27

Repositioning

When ProCAM breaks a tool path, a perpendicular leadin and leadout are inserted
automatically. The length of the leadin and leadout can be user-defined in the Laser Toolfit
Parameters dialog box when you toolfit the part.
In manual repositioning, you are responsible for making sure the location and order are
correct for the reposition entity. ProCAM does not check to see that work holders or hold
down pads are not placed in holes and no clamp avoidance (avoiding cutting or rapiding into
clamps) is performed unless the Check Clamp Deadzone modifier is checked.
Breaking Entities Example 1
EXERCISE In this exercise, you reposition the sheet manually, maintaining whole parts and breaking
entities when necessary.
1. Open the part file Laser Break Repo.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Click the CAM button on the CAD toolbar.

3. Click the Reposition button on the Laser toolbar.

4. Click the Manual Reposition button on the modifier toolbar.

The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate for repositioning. You can use any of the Snap
modifiers to pick a position; however, Digitize works most of the time.
5. Digitize approximately x=570, y=750, then click the left mouse button.
6. For the X amount, type 330 and press ENTER.
The reposition zone is created and REP1 displays.
7. Digitize approximately x=765, y=750, then click the left mouse button.
8. For the X amount, type 435 and press ENTER.
Another reposition zone is created and REP2 displays.

9. Click the Edit Reposition Zone button on the modifier toolbar.

10. Click the Previous Reposition Zone button twice to activate the machine travel
zone.
11. Click BUTTON 2 to commit the highlighted entities.
The entity color changes and an END marker displays.

12. Click the Next Reposition Zone button to activate REP1.

Only the parts that are entirely within REP1 are highlighted, including any openings.
13. Click BUTTON 2 to commit the highlighted entities.

14. Click the Next Reposition Zone button to activate REP2.

15. Click BUTTON 2 to commit the highlighted entities.

4-28 Working with Tool Paths

 Repositioning

16. Click the Break Entities modifier.

17. Click BUTTON 2 to break the entities at the left edge of REP2 and automatically insert
leadins and leadouts at the breaks.

18. Click the Previous Reposition Zone button to REP1.

19. Click BUTTON 2 to commit the highlighted entities.
The END marker changes to green to indicate all entities have been repositioned.

20. Click the Previous and Next buttons to view the entities in the table limit zone
and the reposition zones.
Breaking Entities Example 2
EXERCISE In the following exercise, you toolfit a part that is larger than the table limit zone, then break
the tool path when you insert a reposition zone.
1. Open the part file Break.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Click the CAM button and start Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).

3. Click the Toolfit button on the Laser or Plasma toolbar.

4. Set up tool 01 with a .25" diameter.
If you created a tool file in Chapter 1, tool definition 01 should have a .25" diameter.
5. Window pick the entire part and click BUTTON 2.
6. In the Laser Toolfit Parameters dialog box, use the default Material on the General tab.
7. In the Miscellaneous section, make sure the Auto Break Leadin and Leadout Lengths are
set to .5.
8. Click the External Boundary tab and set the following options:
− Toolpath Direction = Clockwise
− Start Position = Auto
9. For the leadin and leadout, use the following values:
− Type = Arc
− Length = .15"
− Leadin/Leadout Angle = 0
− Leadin/Leadout Overlap = 0
− Arc Radius = .15"
− Arc Sweep Angle = 45

Working with Tool Paths 4-29

Repositioning

10. Click OK.

The prompt line reads: PICK highlighted entity to toolfit (or button 2 to optimize all).
11. Click BUTTON 2.
In this exercise, you click BUTTON 2 to allow ProCAM to automatically generate an
optimized tool path.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate for optimization start.
12. Click anywhere in the work area.
The tool path is inserted on the part.

13. Click the Reposition button on the Laser or Plasma toolbar.

ProCAM does not select the tool path since it is not completely within the table limit
zone.

14. Click the Break Entities modifier.

The portion of the tool path that is within the table limit zone is highlighted.
15. Click BUTTON 2.
− Before you click BUTTON 2, you can click Oops to undo the breaks.
The breaks are not permanent until you click BUTTON 2.
− Notice the leadins and leadouts have been inserted at the breaks.
16. Click BUTTON 2 again to select the highlighted entities for the table
limit zone.

17. Click the Manual Reposition button on the modifier toolbar.

18. Position the reposition zone at approximately 35.00X and 20.00Y, then click
button 1 (left mouse button).
19. Press ENTER to accept the X amount in the InfoBar.

20. Click the Auto Pick button.

21. Click BUTTON 2.

4-30 Working with Tool Paths

 Repositioning

The End marker should change to green to indicate all entities have been selected for a
reposition zone.

22. Click the Edit Reposition Zone button.

23. Click the Previous and Next buttons to view the entities in the table limit zone
and Rep1.

Working with Tool Paths 4-31

Repositioning

4-32 Working with Tool Paths

Chapter 5 Macros/Subroutines

The Macro command on the Plasma and Laser toolbars is used to define tool paths that can
be called up in a subprogram. This chapter shows you how to define and call macros.

Macros/Subroutines 5-1
Defining and Inserting Macros

Defining and Inserting Macros

The Macro function is used to define tool paths that can be called up in a subprogram. This
function can be very useful for parts that would otherwise create long programs that might
not fit in your machine's memory.
If the controller supports macros, ProCAM outputs code during post processing using the
controller macro calls, multiples, etc. This can greatly reduce the code size. In order to use
macros effectively, your machine must support subprograms and your post processor must be
configured to output subprograms. If either your machine or post processor does not support
subprograms, macros are output as long code instead of subprograms. If this were the case,
you would be just as well off using the Move Utility with the Move/Copy modifier.

Defining and Calling a Macro

Macro Call is used to call a macro at a specific location when there is no Grid pattern.
In the following exercise, the same shape is in different locations on the part. For this type of
part, you could insert a Profile tool path on each of the cutouts. However, if program length
is a problem, you can use a macro and call it up at each location.
In order to use a macro call, the entities that will make up the macro SHOULD be defined
around X0, Y0. To do this, you can move one of the shapes from its current location to X0,
Y0. If you were going to draw this part yourself, you would not have to draw the shapes at
each location. You would draw only one at X0, Y0.
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file Exlas22.prt (Laser) or Explas22.prt (Plasma) in the
\procad\parts\learn folder.
The tool path has been inserted on one of the shapes in this part and moved to X0, Y0.

2. Click the CAM

button.
3. Zoom up on the part.

4. Click the Macro

button on the
Laser/Plasma toolbar.
The prompt line reads:
PICK entities to define
macro (button 2 when
done).
5. Window pick the tool path
that is at X0, Y0, then
click BUTTON 2.
The Macro Define dialog box displays.

5-2 Macros/Subroutines
 Defining and Inserting Macros

6. Type CALL in the Macro Name text box, then click

OK.

7. Click the Macro Call modifier button.

The Macro Call dialog box displays.
8. Click CALL in the Macros Defined list box, then
click OK.
The tool path disappears from the work area. This is
how you determine if you selected the correct entities
for the macro.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate for macro
call.
There are several ways to insert the macro at the correct locations. If you did not have the
CAD drawing, you could use the Keyboard Snap and type in the locations of the center of
the arc. Since you already have the CAD drawing, you can use the Entity Origin Snap
command to put the macro at the center of each large arc.

9. Click the Entity Origin button on the Snap toolbar.

The prompt line reads: PICK entity origin for macro call.
10. Pick each large arc.
− The order the macros are inserted is the order they are called up in the NC program
unless you Optimize before post processing the part.
− As you insert the macro in different locations, MC displays at the origin of the macro.
Since the entities in a macro do not exist in the work area, you must know where the
origin is if you want to modify the macro.
When you are finished,
the part should look
similar to the figure.
11. Save the part as Macro
Call.prt.

12. Post process the

part to see how the
subprograms are called
up.

Macros/Subroutines 5-3
Defining and Inserting Macros

Using a Grid Macro Call

EXERCISE If you used Move and Copy to nest this part on a sheet, a very long program would be
generated that might not fit into your machine's memory. Using the Macro function, the
program would be only a little longer than the program for one part.
1. Open the part file Exlas20.prt (Laser) or Explas20.prt (Plasma) in the
\procad\parts\learn folder.
The laser part is shown on
the right.

2. Click the CAM button.

3. Turn off the Arrow and
Rapid display in the
Fabrication Display dialog
box.

4. Click the Redraw

button on the Utility toolbar.

5. Click the Macro button

on the Laser/ Plasma toolbar.
The prompt line reads: PICK
entities to define macro (button
2 when done).
6. Window pick all the entities in the work area, then click BUTTON 2.
The Macro Define dialog box displays.
7. Type ALL for the Macro Name and click OK.
All the tool paths associated with the part disappear from the work area. This is how you
determine if you selected the correct entities for the macro. If the tool paths do not
disappear, they are not in the macro.
The prompt line reads: PICK entities to define macro (button 2 when done). If you had more
macros to define for this part, you would continue to define them.

8. Click the Multiple Macros modifier button.

5-4 Macros/Subroutines
 Defining and Inserting Macros

The Macro Grid dialog box displays the macro that has
been defined for this part.
9. Click ALL in the Macros Defined list, then click OK.
The Multiple Grid modifiers display.
Note that ProCAM automatically sets up individual
subprograms for each tool definition. Each tool definition
will be done on the whole sheet.

10. Make sure the Known Distance Between Grid Points

modifier button is highlighted.
Use this modifier when you know the distance between the grid points. Use the Known
Grid Height and Width modifier when you know the height and width of the grid and you
want ProCAM to calculate the distance between grid points.

11. Make sure the Horizontal First Move button is highlighted.

− When you select this modifier, the second macro in the grid is inserted in a horizontal
direction.
− In the InfoBar, a series of parameters display for defining the grid.
− The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate for macro grid.

12. Click the Keyboard button on the Snap toolbar.

13. Press ENTER twice to accept the 0 default for the X and Y origin.
ProCAM needs to know where the macro grid is to start in the X and Y axis. Typically,
this is X0,Y0.
14. Type 6.000 for X increment (1.000" between the parts) and press ENTER.
15. Type 5.000 for Y increment (1.000" between the parts) and press ENTER.
The X and Y increments are the distances that separate the parts on the sheet.
16. Type 5 for the No. X and press ENTER.
17. Type 4 for the No. Y and press ENTER.
These parameters specify the number of parts in the X and Y. ProCAM calculates a
default based on the X Increm, Y Increm and the sheet size.
18. Click the Zoom All button,
The macro grid displays. The figure on the next page shows the grid for Exlas20.prt.

Macros/Subroutines 5-5
Defining and Inserting Macros

The Macro options in the CAM Display dialog box control how much of the grid is
displayed. Instead of displaying the entire grid, you can reduce the time to display and
redraw a macro grid by showing one part, four parts or the corner parts.

19. Click the Zoom All button in the lower right corner of the window.
MG displays at the X0, Y0 location. This indicates the origin of the macro grid. Since the
entities in a macro do not exist in the work area, you must know where the origin is if you
want to modify the macro grid.
For example, you insert the macro grid in the wrong location and you want to move it.
When ProCAM prompts you to pick entities to move, the only place you can pick would
be the macro grid origin. The same would be true for erasing, rotating, etc.

20. To see how the origin works, click the Erase button on the Utility toolbar.
21. Try to erase any of the tool paths in the work area.
22. Now pick the cross to the left of MG.
The complete macro grid is erased.

23. Click Oops to restore the macro grid.

24. Save the part as Grid Macro.prt.

25. Post process the part.

5-6 Macros/Subroutines
 Defining and Inserting Macros

The code listing below shows a main program calling up subprograms. The numbers may
not match your code listing; however, you can see that the subprogram is being called up.
Note that some of the program has been deleted for this exercise.

GRID MACRO.TXT
O0001
G90 G20 G17 G61 M06 M18
G90
G52 X0 Y0
M98 P0002
G52 X6. Y0
M98 P0002
G52 X12. Y0
M98 P0002
G52 X18. Y0
M98 P0002
G52 X24. Y0
M98 P0002
G52 X24. Y5.
M98 P0002
G52 X18. Y5.
M98 P0002
G52 X12. Y5.
M98 P0002
G52 X6. Y5.
M98 P0002
G52 X0 Y5.
M98 P0002
G52 X0 Y10.
M98 P0002
G52 X6. Y10.
M98 P0002
G52 X12. Y10.
M98 P0002
G52 X18. Y10.
M98 P0002
G52 X24. Y10.
M98 P0002
G52 X24. Y15.
M98 P0002
G52 X18. Y15.
M98 P0002
G52 X12. Y15.
M98 P0002
G52 X6. Y15.
M98 P0002
G52 X0 Y15.
M98 P0002
G52 X0 Y0
M18 G04 P.3
M30

Macros/Subroutines 5-7
Defining and Inserting Macros

O0002 [Sub Program Start]

G90 G00 X1.425 Y1.6465
M16 G04 P1.
M08
G01 G41 D01 X1.425 Y1.6965 F10.
G03 X1.375 Y1.7465 I-.05 J0
I0 J-.1215
X1.325 Y1.6965 I0 J-.05
G40 G01 Y1.6465
M06
G00 X1.425 Y2.1465
M08
G01 G41 D01 X1.425 Y2.1965
G03 X1.375 Y2.2465 I-.05 J0
I0 J-.1215
X1.325 Y2.1965 I0 J-.05
G40 G01 Y2.1465
G00 X1.425 Y2.6465
M08
G01 G41 D01 X1.425 Y2.6965
G03 X1.375 Y2.7465 I-.05 J0
I0 J-.1215
X1.325 Y2.6965 I0 J-.05
G40 G01 Y2.6465
G00 X1.425 Y3.1465
M08
G01 G41 D01 X1.425 Y3.1965
G03 X1.375 Y3.2465 I-.05 J0
I0 J-.1215
X1.325 Y3.1965 I0 J-.05
G40 G01 Y3.1465
G00 X1.425 Y3.6465
.
.
.
M08
G01 G41 D01 X6.0035 Y5.
Y1.
G02 X6. Y.9965 I-.0035 J0
G01 X1.
G02 X.9965 Y1. I0 J.0035
G01 Y5.
G02 X1. Y5.0035 I.0035 J0
G01 X6.
G02 X6.0035 Y5. I0 J-.0035
G40 G01 X6.1535
M99

5-8 Macros/Subroutines
 Defining and Inserting Macros

GRID MACRO.SET
( PART NAME=GRID MACRO )
( PROGRAM NUMBER=0001 )
( MACHINE=LASER TUTORIAL )
( CONTROLLER=FANUC TYPE )
( MATERIAL= )
( THICKNESS=.063 )
( ESTIMATED MACHINE TIME=1 HRS. 43 MIN. 21 SEC. )
( STATION TOOL TYPE X SIZE Y SIZE RADIUS ANGLE DESCRIPTION )
( ------- ---------- ------ ---- -- ------ ------- ----------- )
( 001 ROUND 00.007 )

Setting the Macro Display

EXERCISE To reduce display and redraw time, you can change the number of parts displayed in the work
area.
1. Continue using the part in the work area.
2. Choose CAM Display on the Setup menu.
In the CAM Display dialog box, Show All Parts is currently selected.
3. Click the Show 1 Part option button, then click OK.
Only the first macro in the grid displays.
4. Choose CAM Display on the Setup menu again.
5. Click the Show 4 Parts option, then click OK.
Four parts display in the corner of the sheet.
6. Choose CAM Display on the Setup menu again.
7. Click the Show Corner Parts option, then click OK.
The outermost parts in the macro grid display.

Macros/Subroutines 5-9
Modifying Macros

Modifying Macros
Undefining a Macro
EXERCISE When you complete a macro definition, the entities that are in the macro disappear from the
work area. There may be times when you have picked entities that you do not want in the
macro or entities were not picked that should be in the macro. Undefining a macro deletes the
macro and puts the entities back into the part as normal entities. You can then define the
macro again.
1. Open the part file Exlas23.prt (Laser) or Explas23.prt (Plasma) in the
\procad\parts\learn folder.
The grid shows only 4 parts because the Macro option in the CAM Display dialog box is
set to display only the 4 corner parts.

2. Click the CAM button.

3. Click the Macro button on the Laser or Plasma toolbar.

4. Click the Undefine Macro modifier button.

Even though a macro exists in this part, it is not listed in the Macro Undefine dialog box
because it is currently being used. You cannot undefine a macro that is currently being
used. The macros must be deleted first.
5. Click Cancel.

6. Erase the Macro Grid.

− Remember to pick it at its origin (the MG).
− The macro grid disappears.

7. Click the Macro button.

8. Click the Undefine Macro modifier button.

9. Click ALL in the Macros Defined list box, then click OK.
The dialog box is removed and the original entities that made up the macro are put back
in the work area. The Macro Undefine dialog box displays again so you can undefine the
next macro if there is one.
10. Click Cancel to close the dialog box.
The part could now be modified. Then, you could re-create the Macro and insert the Grid
again.

5-10 Macros/Subroutines
 Modifying Macros

Editing a Macro
EXERCISE The Edit Macro Utility allows you to edit entities within a macro without having to undefine
it.
1. Open the part file Exlas23.prt or Explas23.prt again.
If this part is open in the work area, do not save the changes to the part.

2. Click the CAM button.

3. Click the Edit button on the Utility toolbar.

4. Click the Macro modifier.

The Macros Defined dialog box displays.
5. Select ALL, then click OK.
The Macro grid disappears and the original entities display.

indicates you are in edit mode.

6. Click the Move button on the Utility toolbar.

7. Make sure the Move Original modifier button is highlighted.

8. Window pick the left row of .250 diameter holes and click BUTTON 2.

9. Click the Entity Select button on

the Snap toolbar and pick the lower
hole to move from.

Pick lower hole to move from

Macros/Subroutines 5-11
Modifying Macros

10. Click the Keyboard button on

the Snap toolbar.
11. Type 1.55 for the X coordinate and
press ENTER.
12. Type 1.70 for the Y coordinate to
move to and press ENTER.
13. Click BUTTON 2 several times.

Move to X1.55, Y1.70

14. Click the Edit button on the Utility toolbar.

15. Click the Macro modifier button.

The Macros Defined dialog box displays and the macro grid displays again in the work
area.
16. Click Cancel to close the Macros Defined dialog box.
17. Zoom up on one of the parts.
You can see the new locations of the left row of holes.

5-12 Macros/Subroutines
 Repositioning with Macros

Repositioning with Macros

EXERCISE Since macros cannot be optimized, the procedure for repositioning macros is a little different
from the exercises in Chapter 4. If you use macros, we recommend you optimize before
creating the macro. If you want to optimize after tool paths are part of a macro, you have to
use the Edit Macro Utility before optimizing.
1. Open the part file Exlas35.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Click the CAM button and start FANTUTLP (Laser) or FANTUTPL (Plasma).
3. Select Setup Information on the CAM menu.
4. In the Setup Information dialog box, set the following parameters, then click OK:
− Sheet Width = X136.00, Y38.00
− Clamp 1 = 6
− Clamp 2 = 44
− Use defaults for the other parameters.

5. Click the Toolfit button on the Laser/Plasma toolbar.

6. In the Laser Tools or Plasma Tools dialog box, click the Edit button.
7. Change the Diameter to .125 in the Set Tool dialog box.
8. Click OK twice to close the tools dialog boxes.

9. Make sure the Outside Toolfit modifier is displayed.

10. If you are using the Laser tutorial post processor, click the Open Area Avoidance
modifier.
11. Window pick the entire part and click BUTTON 2.
The Laser Toolfit Parameters dialog box displays.
12. Use the default Material on the General tab.
13. Click the External Boundary tab and set the following options:
− Toolpath Direction = Counterclockwise
− Start Position = Auto (this parameter is grayed out on all the tabs when you use Open
Area Avoidance)
14. For the leadin and leadout, use the following values:
− Type = Parallel Leadin and Perpendicular Leadout
− Length = .25"
15. Click the Internal Boundary tab and use the defaults for the Toolpath Direction and Start
Position.

Macros/Subroutines 5-13
Repositioning with Macros

16. For the leadin and leadout, use the following values:
− Type = Arc
− Length = .10"
− Leadin/Leadout Angle = 0
− Leadin/Leadout Overlap = 0
− Arc Radius = .10"
− Arc Sweep Angle = 90
17. Click the Holes tab, then select each Hole Size in the Show Leadin/Leadout parameters for
list box and set each Leadin and Leadout to None.
18. Click OK.
The prompt line reads: PICK highlighted entity to toolfit (or button 2 to optimize all).
19. Click BUTTON 2.
In this exercise, you click
BUTTON 2 to allow ProCAM to
automatically generate an
optimized tool path.
The prompt line reads:
DIGITIZE coordinate for
optimization start.
20.Click anywhere in the work
area.
ProCAM generates the tool
paths. The part with Laser tool
paths is shown on the right.
EXERCISE Define the macro and create a macro grid:

1. Click the Macro button.

2. Window pick the entire part and click BUTTON 2.
3. In the Macro Define dialog box, type macro1, then click OK.

4. Click the Multiple Macros modifier button.

5. In the Macro Grid dialog box, select macro1 in the list and click OK.

6. Click the Keyboard button on the Snap toolbar.

7. Type the following values for the macro grid:
− X origin = 1.00 Y origin = 4.00
− X increm = 16.00 Y increm = 11.50
− No. X = 4 No. Y = 3
8. Click the Zoom All button.

5-14 Macros/Subroutines
 Repositioning with Macros

9. For the second Macro Grid, enter 65 for the X origin and 4 for the Y origin.
The second grid is inserted.

10. Click the Reposition button on the Laser/Plasma toolbar.

11. Click the Auto Pick modifier button.

ProCAM highlights all the tool paths that fit entirely within the table limits.
12. Click BUTTON 2.

13. Click the Manual Reposition modifier button.

The entities that were selected by Auto Pick are grayed out.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate for repositioning.
14. Position the reposition zone at approximately X60.00" (before the start of the second grid)
and click BUTTON 1 (the left button).
The X amount parameter in the InfoBar should indicate a coordinate location near 60.00"
and the prompt line reads: ENTER X repositioning increment amount.
15. If the amount is close to 60.00, press ENTER or change the amount and then press ENTER.

16. Click the Auto Pick modifier button.

ProCAM highlights all the tool paths that fit within the reposition zone.
17. Click BUTTON 2.
The part should look similar to the figure below.

Macros/Subroutines 5-15
Repositioning with Macros

5-16 Macros/Subroutines
Chapter 6 Additional Commands

The chapter explains how to use the following commands on the Plasma/Laser toolbar:
The Toolfit command can be used to etch text.
Text can also be broken into line and arc entities and cut using the Profile Tool Path
command.
The Attribute command is used to attach certain functions to CAM entities.
Attributes are non-geometric properties, values and identifiers that are attached to
geometric entities.
As explained in Chapter 3, when you use the Profile Tool Path command, a
boundary is required to define the entities to be machined and the path and direction
of the cutter. This chapter explains how boundaries can be used to check for any
breaks or overlapping entities in a part you are going to cut. Boundaries can also be
inserted to calculate the area of a part or shape using the Measure Utility.
The Bend command performs simple bending by moving entities a specified
distance (the bend amount) toward a bend line.

Additional Commands 6-1

Etching

Etching
EXERCISE The Toolfit command can be used to generate tool paths for text. Any text in the work area
can be cut. TrueType fonts work well because of their closed outline design.
1. Choose New on the File menu to clear the work area.

2. Click the Text button on the CAD toolbar.

3. Type ProCAM.
4. In the InfoBar, type 1.000 for the Height and Width.

5. Click the Keyboard Snap button.

6. Put the text at X0,Y0.

7. Exit to Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).

8. Select Fabrication Display on the Setup menu.
9. Remove the check marks from the Stock, Over Travel and Clamps Display On options,
then click OK.
10. Click the Zoom All button.

11. Click the Toolfit button on the Laser or Plasma toolbar.

12. Set up Tool 1 with a .010" diameter.
The size is not important because ProCAM inserts the tool path on the centerline of the
text.

13. Click the Boundary Type modifier to display the Open modifier.
14. Pick the text, then click BUTTON 2.
Remember to pick text at the lower left corner or window pick the whole word.
After you pick the text, ProCAM automatically inserts the tool path on it.

6-2 Additional Commands

 Etching

If you select a TrueType font, ProCAM will generate smooth arc

and line tool paths. TrueType fonts are outline fonts and always
produce block style characters. When exploded, these fonts
produce a closed area defined by lines and arcs. Within TekSoft,
TrueType fonts are defined by the character height only - not as a
point size. The height of the character is also affected by bolding
and italics.
If you select a TekSoft font, one of the problems with the built-in
text fonts is they are made up entirely of straight lines. There are
no arcs in any of the fonts. In the figure on the right, you can see
that the round part of the letter P is all straight lines.
Since etching is normally small, this is usually not a problem.
However, if you were going to be doing large text, the letters
would not look right.
EXERCISE The following exercise shows how to use the Break utility to explode text inserted using a
TekSoft font. This turns the text into line entities. Then, you can use the Arc command to
generate arcs in place of the lines. 5
1. Choose New on the File menu.
6
2. Click the Text button.
3. Type the letter P. 4
4. In the InfoBar, set the Width and Height for 2.0000
and insert the text at X0,Y0. 2

5. Click the Break Utility button.

6. Click the Explode modifier button. 3

1
7. Pick the letter P and click BUTTON 2.
8. Press Ctrl + A to zoom all.
9. Click the down arrow next to the color selection on
the system bar and select a different color.

10. Click the Arc button.

11. Click the Center Unknown modifier button.

12. Click the Endpoint Snap button.

13. Start the arc at endpoint #1. End the arc at #2. The third point is #3.
14. Insert the top arc from 4 to 5 to 6.

Additional Commands 6-3

Etching

15. Erase the original lines.

The P should look like the figure on the right.
EXERCISE Insert the tool path:

1. Exit to Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).

2. Click the Boundary button on the Laser or Plasma

toolbar.
3. Put a boundary on the entities.

4. Click the Profile Tool Path button.

You cannot use the Toolfit command because the "P" is no
longer text. It is just lines and arcs.
5. Set up a small tool (e.g., .007") in the Set Tool dialog box.

6. Click the Compensation modifier until Machine Comp - Either Offset displays.
It does not matter if it is left or right because you will not be using any compensation to
cut the letter.
7. Pick the boundary to cut and click BUTTON 2.
8. Pick to the outside for the compensation side.
The tool path is inserted on the entities.

6-4 Additional Commands

 Attributes

Attributes
The Attribute command on the Laser/Plasma toolbar is used to attach certain functions to
CAM entities. Attributes are non-geometric properties, values and identifiers that are
attached to geometric entities.
Some attributes are attached automatically. Others such as optional stop and program stop
are optional and can be attached using the Attribute command. Attributes can be attached to
any CAM entity on a part. For example, if you want to have an optional stop after cutting a
long line on a part in case you might need to stop the machine at that point, you can attach
an optional stop to just that tool path.
Attaching Attributes to CAM Entities
EXERCISE In this exercise, you attach a program stop and feedrate attribute after cutting the large hole
in the center of the part.
1. Open the part file Exlas18.prt or Explas18.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Click the CAM button.

3. Select CAM Display on the Setup menu.
4. In the CAM Display dialog box, remove the check marks from the
Rapids and Stock options.
5. In the Attribute Display section, make sure the Symbol option is
checked, then click OK.

6. Click the Redraw button.

7. Zoom up on the Arc Leadout of the large hole in

the middle.
This makes the leadout easier to pick.

Additional Commands 6-5

Attributes

8. Click the Attribute button on the Laser/Plasma toolbar.

The Select Attribute dialog box displays. The available attributes that are listed depend on
the machine.

9. Click the After modifier button.

10. In the Select Attribute
dialog box, select
program stop in the
Available Attributes
list and click the Add
button.
Program stop displays
in the Attribute List.

11. Click the

During modifier button.
12. Select feedrate in the Available Attributes list and click the Add button.
13. Click the Settings button.
14. In the Set Attribute dialog box, change the feedrate to 45.000", then click OK.
15. Click the Attach button
The prompt line reads: SELECT CAM entity to attach attributes. ProCAM is asking which
CAM entity you want the program stop attached to.
16. Pick the arc leadout of the large hole in the middle.
The Attribute symbol displays to indicate that an attribute is
attached. If you do not want the Attribute symbol to display, you can
remove the check mark for the Symbol option in the CAM Display
dialog box.
17. Click Close to exit the Select Attribute dialog box.
18. Save the part as Attribute.prt.

19. Post process the part.

20. Select the View Code modifier.

21. Click the Step modifier button to step through the program.
You should see "M00" in the program after contouring the arc.

6-6 Additional Commands

 Attributes

Checking Entities for Attributes

EXERCISE You can use either the Measure or Order Utility to check if a CAM entity has an attribute
attached.
1. Open the part file Exlas19.prt or Explas19.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.
This part is similar to the part in the previous exercise.
2. Select CAM Display on the Setup menu.
The CAM Display dialog box displays.
3. In the Attribute Display section, make sure the During 123/Measure option is checked,
then click OK.
This option must be selected in order to view the attached attributes.

4. Click the Measure button on the Utility toolbar.

5. Pick the arc leadout of the large hole.
You may need to zoom up this area of the part.
The Show Attributes information box displays. The attribute that is attached to the entity
is listed. The A), B) and D) indicate after, before or during.
This dialog box remains displayed until you pick another entity or until you click another
toolbar button.

6. Click the Order button on the Utility toolbar.

7. Make sure the Check modifier is highlighted.

8. Click the Step modifier.

9. Click the Begin First modifier.

10. Click the Next modifier button.

The hole on the bottom left is highlighted and the Show Attributes dialog box displays.
This dialog box remains displayed until you pick another CAM entity or until you click
another toolbar button.

11. Click the Next modifier button several times to step through the CAM entities on
the part. When an entity with attributes attached is selected, the Show Attributes dialog
box displays the list of attached attributes.

Additional Commands 6-7

Attributes

Changing Attribute Settings

EXERCISE The Edit utility and the Attribute modifier allow you to change the settings for attributes that
are attached to CAM entities.
1. Continue using the part Exlas19.prt or Explas19.prt in the work area from the previous
exercise.

2. Click the Edit button on the Utility toolbar.

3. Click the Attribute modifier button.

The prompt line reads: PICK entity to edit.
4. Pick the leadout line on the bottom right 1" diameter hole.
You may need to zoom up on this area.
The Select Attribute dialog box displays. This dialog box allows you to either remove
individual attributes or clear all the attributes from this entity. Note that you cannot attach
attributes when you are in Edit mode.
5. Highlight D)Feedrate = 45.000" in the Attribute List and click the Settings button.
The Set Attribute dialog box displays.
6. Change the Feedrate to 40.000 and click OK.
7. Click Close to exit the Select Attribute dialog box.
Removing Attributes
Using the Edit Utility with the Attribute Modifier
EXERCISE The Edit utility also allows you to remove individual attributes or clear all the attributes that
are attached to a CAM entity.
1. Continue using the part Exlas19.prt in the work area from the previous exercise.

2. Click the Edit button on the Utility toolbar.

3. Click the Attribute modifier button.

The prompt line reads: PICK entity to edit.
4. Pick the leadout line on the top right 1" diameter hole.
The Select Attribute dialog box displays. This dialog box allows you to either remove
individual attributes or clear all the attributes from this entity. Note that you cannot attach
attributes when you are in Edit mode.
5. Highlight B)optional stop in the Attribute List and click the Remove button.
The attribute is removed from the list.
6. Click the Close button.

6-8 Additional Commands

 Attributes

Using the Erase Utility with the Attribute Modifier

EXERCISE The Erase utility allows you to remove all the attributes that are attached to a CAM entity.
1. Continue using the part Exlas19.prt in the work area from the previous exercise.

2. Click the Erase button on the Utility toolbar.

3. Click the Attribute button.

4. Pick the leadout line on the top right 1" diameter hole.

5. Click the Redraw button on the Utility toolbar.

The Attribute symbol is removed. Because you have the Attribute modifier selected, only
the attributes are erased.

Additional Commands 6-9

Boundaries

Boundaries
The Boundary command is used to define the entities to be machined and the path and
direction of the cutter for a Profile tool path. In Chapter 3, you learned to insert boundaries.
This command can also be used to check for any breaks or overlapping entities in the part
you are going to cut. This may occur when you receive CAD files from someone else. If the
part is not drawn carefully, you may have problems cutting it.
Boundaries can also be inserted to calculate the area of a part or shape using the Boundary
Area modifier on the Measure Utility toolbar.
A boundary is a complex entity, which means it is made up of more than one entity. A
boundary has continuity (no breaks between connecting entities) and a direction (a start and
end).

Correcting Overlapping Entities

EXERCISE If you think there might be a problem in the part you are going to cut, use the Boundary
function to check it. The part in this exercise has entities that overlap. When you insert the
boundary, ProCAM stops where the big arcs overlap. This exercise shows you how to correct
this.
1. Open the part file Exlas36.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Exit to Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).

3. Choose Fabrication Display on the Setup menu.
4. In the Fabrication Display dialog box, remove the check marks from the Stock and Over
Travel Display On check boxes, then click OK.
5. Click the Zoom All button in the lower right corner of the ProCAM window.

6. Click the Boundary button on the Pick here to start

Plasma/Laser toolbar.
You do not need to change or select any
modifiers for this exercise. Pick for last entity
7. Pick the line to start the boundary as
shown in the figure.
8. Pick the same line to give the boundary
direction.
9. Pick the small arc at the top to end the
boundary.
ProCAM chains the boundary around
and stops where the big arcs overlap.
Boundary stops

6-10 Additional Commands

 Boundaries

The figure on the right shows the overlap

area.

10. Click the Oops button on the Utility

toolbar three times to remove the boundary.

11. Click the Erase button on the Utility

toolbar.
12. Erase one of the big arcs.

13. Click the Trim button on the Utility

toolbar.

14. Make sure the Trim to Keep modifier Overlap Right arc Left arc
button is highlighted. amount endpoint endpoint

15. Select the Trim Two Entities modifier.

16. Pick the big arc for the first entity to trim.
17. Pick the small arc for the second entity to 2nd entity
trim. to trim

ProCAM inserts an arc to connect the two

entities.

18. Click the Boundary button and insert

the boundary again. 1st entity to trim
If you have trimmed the arcs correctly, the
boundary should around the entire part.

Correcting Breaks in the Path

EXERCISE This command can also be used to correct breaks in the part you are going to cut.
1. Open the part file Exlas37.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Exit to Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).

3. Make sure the Stock and Over Travel Display On options are not checked in the
Fabrication Display dialog box.
4. Click the Zoom All button in the lower right corner.

Additional Commands 6-11

Boundaries

5. Click the Boundary button.

The prompt line reads: PICK endpoint for start of Start
boundary. End
6. Pick the right side of the top horizontal line.
7. Pick the top line again to give the boundary
direction.
8. Pick the top of the right vertical line for the
boundary end.
The boundary stops at the break in the vertical line
about half way up the line and the prompt line
reads: PICK entity for CAM boundary.
9. Zoom up the end of the line that is highlighted.
You should see a small break in the vertical line.
10. Click the Zoom All button in the lower right
corner of the window.
11. Pick the top half of the vertical line in the same
.005 break
place you picked it to end the boundary.
The prompt line reads: ENTER Y/N to connect break
in boundary.
In the InfoBar, the Break parameter indicates the
size of the break and the Yes/No parameter
defaults to Y to connect the break.
12. Press ENTER to accept Y.
ProCAM finishes the boundary.
13. Click BUTTON 2 twice.
If you cut the part with the boundary on it, the
right side vertical line would have three separate
cycles: one for the bottom half, one for the .005
Three Cycles
break, and one for the top half.
If you were only cutting a couple of parts this
way, this may not matter. If you were doing many
parts, however, it could take a significant amount
of additional time. You may find that the best way
to correct breaks in entities is to erase the broken
entities and either trim them to be correct or
simply draw them accurately.

6-12 Additional Commands

 Boundaries

Calculating the Area of a Part

EXERCISE Boundaries can also be used with the Measure Utility to calculate the area of a part or shape.
This function can be useful for calculating accurate price quotes and for determining how
much material to order.
1. Open the part file Exlas7.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Exit to Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).

3. Remove the check marks from the Stock, Over Travel and Clamps Display On options in
the Fabrication Display dialog box.

4. Click the Boundary button on the Laser or Plasma toolbar.

5. Click the Boundary Type modifier until the Closed Boundary modifier displays.
The prompt line reads: SELECT entities for inserting boundary.
6. Window pick the part and click BUTTON 2.
The boundary is inserted.

7. Click the Measure button on the Utility toolbar.

8. Click the Boundary Area modifier button.

The prompt line reads: PICK boundary for area calculation.
9. Pick the boundary.
The InfoBar displays the area of the shape (17.5633") and the current layer (Layer 0).

Additional Commands 6-13

Performing Simple Bending

Performing Simple Bending

The Bend command on the Laser and Plasma toolbars is used to perform simple bending by
moving entities a specified distance (the bend amount) toward a bend line. There are no
modifiers for this command.
The Laser and Plasma systems
assume the part is flat. For flat
pattern development of a formed
part, a Bend command is
provided.
The Bend command is used to
assist the development of flat
pattern layouts using a 2D cut
and paste approach. The basic
procedure involves using the
Move and Rotate commands to
attach the orthographic views
together to define the general
shape of the flat pattern. Then,
the Bend command is used to
accommodate for bend
allowance.
This figure shows three
orthographic views of a simple
bracket.
EXERCISE You can use the Bend command to help in developing the flat pattern of the bracket. First
you position the flange (the right side view) on the top view:
1. Open the part file Bend.prt in the \procad\parts\learn folder.
2. Select Set Layers on the View menu.
3. In the Layers dialog box, turn on Layer 2 and make it current, then click OK.

4. Click the Move button command on the Utility toolbar.

5. Pick all the blue entities associated with the right side view and click BUTTON 2.

6. Click the Endpoint button on the Snap toolbar.

7. Pick a line in the lower left corner of the right side view close to A to move from.

8. Click the Entity Origin button on the Snap toolbar.

6-14 Additional Commands

 Performing Simple Bending

9. Pick the green circle (B) to move to and click BUTTON 2 twice.

10. Click the Rotate button on the Utility toolbar.

11. Pick all the blue entities associated with the right side view and click BUTTON 2.

12. Click the Entity Origin button on the Snap toolbar and pick the green circle (B).
13. Type 90 for the Angle of Rotation and press ENTER.

14. Click the Move button on the Utility toolbar and pick all the blue entities.

15. Click the Entity Origin button and

pick the green circle (B) to move from.

16. Click the Endpoint button and pick a

line at the bottom left corner of the top
view close to the C and click BUTTON 2
twice.

17. Dimension the top view as shown on

the right.
EXERCISE Use the Bend command to accommodate for bend allowance:

1. Exit to Laser (FANTUTLP) or Plasma (FANTUTPL).

2. In the Fabrication Display dialog box, remove the check marks from the Stock, Over
Travel and Clamps options, then click OK.

3. Click the Redraw button, then click Zoom All.

4. Click the Bend button.

The InfoBar shows a value for the Bend. Amt. The bend amount value should be one-half
of the bend allowance for the bend. Assume for this exercise, the material would stretch a
total of .050".
5. Double-click the Bend amt text box and type .025 for the bend amount.

Additional Commands 6-15

Performing Simple Bending

6. Click BUTTON 2 twice.

The prompt line reads: PICK bend surface
entities (button 2 when done).
7. Pick the entities labeled A, B and C, then
click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: PICK line entity for
bend line.
8. Pick the line that represents the corner of
the bend and click BUTTON 2.
The portion of the part defined by entities
A, B and C is moved toward the selected
bend line by .025.
9. Repeat steps 6 and 7 picking the entities
labeled D, E, and F and the hole
geometry.
The part is reduced by an additional .025".

10. Dimension the top view to verify the

reduction.

6-16 Additional Commands

 Index

Index
.ftf (plasma tool file) 1-17 database
.ltf (laser tool file) 1-17 cut conditions by area 2-21
.set (setup sheet file) 1-16 cut conditions by line length/arc radius 2-23
.txt (NC program file 1-15 post processor-specific cutting conditions 2-21
A/B selecting cutting conditions 2-18
Absolute/Incremental 1-11 Display Controller command (CAM menu) 1-9
arrow display 1-8 display options 1-7
attributes E/F
checking entities 2-14 Edit utility, using with CAM entities 4-2
display options 6-5 EndCmp 1-6, 3-19
displaying symbol 2-14 exploding CAD entities 6-3
lift laser head 2-10 Fabrication Display dialog box 1-7, 4-7
Bend command 6-14 FANTUTLP, tutorial laser controller 1-2, 1-4
bending 6-14 FANTUTPL, tutorial plasma controller 1-2, 1-4
boundary files
calculating area of part 6-13 installing parts for exercises 1-2
correcting breaks in path 6-11 NC program 1-16
inserting for Profile tool path 3-2 opening 1-3
using 6-10 setup sheet 1-10, 1-16
Boundary Area modifier 6-13 tool definitions 1-17
Break Entities modifier 4-27 formed part, bending 6-14
Break utility, exploding text 6-3
G/I
C/D grid optimization 4-12
CAD toolbar, Exit to CAM 1-3 grid, part layout 4-4, 4-13
CAM Display dialog box 2-14, 5-6 Init Feedrate 1-11
attribute display options 6-5
L
CAM menu 1-9 Laser database See database
Tool Files 1-17 Laser Toolfit Parameters dialog box 1-13, 2-2, 2-5,
Circular tool path 3-21 2-18, 2-20, 2-21, 2-23
Clamp 1X, 2X 1-11
Laser/Plasma toolbar 1-6
clamps Attribute 6-5
displaying 1-8 Bend 6-14
positioning 1-9, 1-11 Boundary 6-10
Compensation 1-11
Circular Tool Path 3-21
compensation options on system bar 3-19 Exit to CAD 1-3
compensation, tool 1-6 Linear Tool Path 3-19
Controller Display dialog box 1-9 Macro 5-2
Controller Type dialog box 1-4, 1-9 Optimize 4-10
controller, changing 1-9 Post Process 1-15
cutting database See database Profile 3-2
D Offset 1-11
Laser/Plasma Tools dialog box 1-12
lift laser head attribute 2-10
Linear tool path 3-19

i
Index

M/N Part Thickness 1-11

macro parts used in exercises
calling 5-2 bend.prt 6-14
defining 5-2 break.prt 4-29
options in CAM Display dialog box 5-6 end comp.prt 3-19
origin 5-3, 5-6 exlas1.prt 1-3, 3-2
repositioning sheet 5-13 exlas12.prt 2-2, 3-14
sample NC program 5-7 exlas13.prt 3-12
Macro Call dialog box 5-3 exlas15.prt 4-4, 4-6, 4-7, 4-10
Macro Define dialog box 5-2, 5-4 exlas17.prt 4-12
Macro Grid dialog box 5-5 exlas18.prt 6-5
Macro Undefine dialog box 5-10 exlas19.prt 6-7, 6-8, 6-9
Macros Defined dialog box 5-10 exlas2.prt 2-28
Material 1-11 exlas21.prt 2-11, 2-15
MC 5-3 exlas22.prt 5-2, 5-4
Measure utility 6-13 exlas23.prt 5-10, 5-11
checking attributes 6-7 exlas30.prt 3-10
MG 5-6, 5-10 exlas33.prt 4-23
micro joints 2-25 exlas35.prt 5-13
Move utility, part grid layout 4-4, 4-13 exlas36.prt 6-10
NC program exlas37.prt 6-11
sample 1-16 exlas4.prt 3-6
sample with macro calls 5-9 exlas40.prt 4-16
sample with macros 5-7 exlas41.prt 4-20
steps to generate 1-3 exlas42.prt 4-18
NoCmp 3-20 exlas5.prt 3-8
O exlas7.prt 2-8, 6-13
offset option on system bar 3-22 exlas8.prt 3-16
Open Area Avoidance modifier 1-13, 2-10 explas15.prt 4-4, 4-6, 4-7, 4-10
Optimization Manager explas18.prt 6-5
Levels 4-16 explas19.prt 6-7, 6-8, 6-9
Optimization Groups 4-20 explas22.prt 5-2, 5-4
Order Groups 4-18 explas23.prt 5-10, 5-11
Parting Hits 4-20 grid macro.prt 5-6
optimize tool paths laser break repo.prt 4-28
grid method 4-12 laser repo.prt 4-25
Optimization Manager 4-16 lp ex1.prt 1-14
single window method 4-10 micro joint.prt 2-25
Order utility plasma repo.prt 4-25
checking attributes 6-7 ref comp.prt 3-20
reordering hits and CAM cycles 4-7 toolfit cut data.prt 2-18, 2-19
Outside Toolfit modifier 1-13, 2-2 toolfit cut data1.prt 2-21, 2-23
over travel display 1-5, 1-8 toolfit.prt 2-4
P toolfit2.prt 2-29
part grid layout 4-4, 4-13 toolfit3.prt 2-30
Part Layout dialog box 4-4, 4-14 parts, installing for exercises 1-2

ii
 Index

Plasma toolbar See Laser/Plasma toolbar skill builder exercises

Plasma Tools dialog box See Laser/Plasma Tools TOOLFIT1 2-28
dialog box TOOLFIT2 2-29
Post dialog box 1-15 TOOLFIT3 2-30
post process 1-15 spoon sensor radius 2-12
changing controller/post processor 1-9 steps to generate an NC program 1-3
NC program file 1-16 stock display 1-5, 1-8
setup sheet 1-16 system bar
Profile tool path Tool button 1-6, 1-12
compensation 3-10 tool compensation options 1-6
inserting 3-2 T
interference checking 3-6 tabs See micro joints
modifiers 3-4 tool files, creating 1-17
program number 1-10 tool paths
R/S circular 3-21
rapid display 1-8 inserting automatically 1-14
Rapid Go Around Distance 2-12 linear 3-19
reposition sheet optimizing 4-10
automatic 4-22 reordering 4-7
break tool paths 4-27 simulating material removal 4-6
manual 4-25 single entity 3-19
parts with macros 5-13 viewing cutting order 4-6
Rgt 1-6, 3-19 Toolfit
Save As dialog box, CAD Only option 1-9 cut conditions by area 2-21
Save Post File dialog box 1-15 cut conditions by line length/arc radius 2-23
Save Tool File dialog box 1-17 defining outside and inside edges 2-4
Select Attribute dialog box 6-6, 6-8 inserting tool paths 1-14
Select Controller command (CAM menu) 1-9 micro joints 2-25
sensor spoon radius 2-10 open area avoidance 2-10
Set Clamps command (CAM menu) 1-9 picking individual entities 2-5
Set Tool dialog box 1-12 selecting cutting conditions 1-13, 2-2, 2-5, 2-18
Setup Information tools
changing 1-10 button on system bar 1-6, 1-12
command (CAM menu) 1-9 compensation options 1-6
Setup Information dialog box 1-9, 1-10 tools files, CAM menu command 1-9
setup sheet ToolTips 1-7
file 1-16 Trap Door Display command (CAM menu) 1-9
information 1-10 U
sample 1-16 Utility toolbar
shaker parts See micro joints Break 4-2, 6-3
Shape command, creating micro joints 2-25 Edit 4-2
sheet display 1-5, 1-8 Measure 6-7, 6-13
Show Attributes dialog box 6-7 Mirror 4-2
simulation, tool path 1-8 Move 4-4, 4-13
single entity tool paths 3-19 Order 4-6, 6-7

iii
Index

Utility toolbar (continued)

Rotate 4-2
Scale 4-2
Trim 4-2
X
X sheet width 1-10
Y
Y sheet height 1-10

iv