Creating CPL's using Solid Models

Edgecam has the capability of creating a CPL from a solid face.

The CPL from Face command allows you to create a CPL from a solid face. This requires the selection of a face, plus an origin (optional). You can select the origin from any points on the model (including typed in co-ordinates and vertices). This CPL can then be used as a reference for machining purposes.

This function provides a method of CPL creation for Multi-plane applications. The full functionality for CPL creation is available through the normal Create CPL command, although this will first require you to create the Edgecam geometry.





Origin    Check this box to specify an origin for the CPL
              which can be selected from vertices or any
              other defined points (including typed in
              co-ordinates).

Name    Applies a name to the new CPL, if required.

Plane    Specifies a method for redefining the plane of
              the CPL. Choose between the following
              options:
   
     Face Normal    Allows you to select a planar face
                              from a solid for CPL creation.




      Face Axis     Allows you to select conical and
                             cylindrical faces from a solid for CPL
                             creation, typically useful in the
                             multiplane milling environment when
                             creating a CPL which is normal to a
                             hole.  The orientation is taken from
                             the cylinder, the Z-axis of the CPL will
                             point away from the middle of the
                             cylinder.  If the datum position for the
                             CPL is above the centre of the cylinder
                             the CPL's Z axis will point up and if the
                             datum is below the centre of the
                             cylinder the Z axis will point down.

                             You will be prompted to pick the  
                             cylindrical face to define the CPL
                             orientation.

                             You can intellisnap the origin at either
                             end of the cylindrical face along the
                             centreline of the cylinder. (This
                             selection mode is optional and can be
                             controlled by checking the appropriate
                             box on the Selection tab of the
                             Preferences (Options menu) dialog.
                             The default setting for this option is
                             ON.)





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