Recognition of all pockets in a Plate is a preliminary step for automating the process of pocket machining.

The recognized pockets can be used in downstream procedures and templates. The relevant geometry from the Pocket feature is automatically selected by the procedure. For example, the Volume Pocket procedure takes the pocket’s volume, the Finish procedures take the surfaces and the Profile procedures (Profile Closed Contour and Profile Open Contour) take the contours and Z values.

Templates for Pockets is a Feature Based Machining function enabling faster, safer and simpler programming for milling multiple pockets. In many cases, pocket milling requires similar sequences of NC procedures. These sequences contain for example, roughing, wall finishing, floor finishing, cleanup, chamfering, etc.

When a job requires the milling of multiple pockets, the programming may take time and this increases the possibility of human error.

Define and create a Template by selecting any sequence of procedures. Once a Template is defined, you can apply it on any pocket feature. Usage of Templates enables you to apply a complete milling process to all pocket features in a single operation, saving programming time and preventing user errors.

The image shows a pocket selected for milling operation. Template(s) can be selected for applying on the pocket.

The image shows that, for selected pocket(s), the surfaces associated with the pocket(s) are automatically selected.

Facing is normally the first operation that prepares the initial stock for milling. The Facing procedure supports open regions, optimized milling directions, round corners and round connections. In addition, there are flexible input methods; using Part and Stock geometry or manual input.

The image shows a toolpath created by the Facing procedure, using round connections.

Automatically detect sharp edges as candidates for chamfering ("Imaginary" chamfers) as well as "Designed" chamfers, based on parameter settings. The detected geometry is then automatically used as input for the chamfering toolpath.

The Chamfer Detect option is displayed for the procedures: Chamfer Open Contour and Chamfer Closed Contour.

The image shows chamfers automatically detected for machining.

Capping drilled holes or gaps in pocket floors is a Feature Based Machining function enabling smoother tool motions.

Pockets may contain existing socket areas (e.g. holes, slots) on their bottom floor. Milling pockets without capping these holes, may result in inefficient tool motions interrupted by going around the holes. Capping these holes produces smoother tool motions.

Before generating a toolpath, these bottom floor socket areas can be capped using one of the following options:

• Automatic - The system automatically caps all sockets on the pocket’s floor.

• Manual - Cap specific sockets, for more user control.

The image shows a capped hole on a pocket floor, allowing smoother tool motions.