PROOF OF FLEXIBILITY
Toolpaths
KeyMachinist toolpaths are simply KeyCreator entities with tool information
attached and can be easily mananged using levels. This simple organization
structure allows all models, setup, and toolpaths for a project to be saved in
the same file.
Base Geometry
KeyMachinist can build toolpaths using faces and edges of solid models, separate
surfaces entities, polygons, and cloud of points. The user can model
specialized tool tip/center paths in KeyCreator and KeyMachinst will convert
any type of 2D/3D wirframe entities into toolpath.
Gauge-free tool motion can be generated from the projection of 2D or 3D curves
onto part surfaces
Toolpath Re-generation
With the click of a single button, KeyMachinist milling toolpaths can be
regenerated using updated models, cutting tool, or machining parameters.
Original model and toolpath
Purple cone faces moved using KeyCreator editing functions
Re-generation completed without re-entry of any parameters or tool selection
4-Axis Tombstone Operation
4-axis indexing allows the setup for multi faceted tombstone fixture. The user
creates a Machining View for each face and then generates individual toolpath
for each orientation. When the toolpaths are joined and posted together, the
post processor will automatically output the indexing angle.
Tombstone indexing is automatically coded by the post-processor
Undercutting with Swivel Head
KeyMachinist supports 3-axis machining centers with a swivel head for machining
undercuts. The user will define a Machining View having the Z axis parallel to
the tool axis. The toolpath will be created and gouge checked in the tilted
view but the post processor, if instructed, will output the motions in the
orthogonal coordinate system of the mill.
Rotary Table Operation
The KeyMachinist post processor supports a rotary table, both as a 4th axis
indexing and as a full continuous motion axis replacing the X or Y axis. Any
wireframe geometry wrapped around a revolving profile of any shape, can be
converted to toolpath via the Geometry-to-Toolpath function. The post processor
will output XZB or YZA data to allow a simultaneous 2-axis + rotary.
