44.4 GRAPHICAL PART PROGRAMMING
· Basically,
-
1. Part geometry is entered in 2D or 3D.
-
2. Tool geometry and machine tool type are entered.
-
3. Speeds and feeds are entered or calculated based on tool and work material.
-
4. Inside/outside of geometry, and initial stock sizes are selected.
-
5. Cutter paths are generated.
-
6. Cutter paths are converted to a machine specific language (eg, G-codes).
· These programs are usually built into better CAD systems or are available as stand alone software
· Some machine tools have these programmers built into the controller.