What's new in CamBam+ 0.9.8L
Oct 9, 2012
- New Part machining object:
- A Part is a way of grouping multiple, related machining operations into a single object. A single drawing file can contain many different part objects.
- Parts can be enabled or disabled individually. As with layers and machining operations, pressing the space bar when the item is selected in the drawing tree, will toggle a part's enabled state.
- Machining properties and CAM styles:
- Machining templates from previous CamBam versions have been renamed CAM Styles in this version and their behaviour has changed considerably. As with templates, styles are a way of grouping machining parameters into reusable objects to help simplify common machining tasks. Refer to the following section for more detailed information.
- Tool libraries:
- The System tab also contains a Tools section where libraries of tools can be defined.
- Each tool in the library has a unique Index property. This index is used in the Tool Number selection drop down in Machining operations, Parts and the top level Machining folder.
- Other system libraries:
- Material and Machine definition libraries are also provided under the system tab. These libraries are largely place holders for the time being and their use will be expanded upon in coming releases.
- New Stock object:
- A stock object can now be defined at the Machining or Part level. Currently only rectangular block stock objects are supported.
- Basic nesting support added:
- To make multiple copies of a part, select the part in the drawing tree then expand the nesting property to define a simple nesting pattern using the following parameters.
- Holding tab changes:
- A new Tab Style property has been added. This can be used to select between Square and Triangle cross section shaped tabs. Triangle tabs are a new addition and should hopefully reduce the tool marks associated with square holding tab retracts.
- Changes to Pockets:
- The method used to generate pocket toolpaths can now be set using a new pocket machining operation parameter called Region Fill Style. This property offers various offset fills as well as horizontal and vertical hatching. The fill style options are the same as those illustrated in the CAD fill region documentation.
- Corner overcut option:
- Inside corners, where a tool diameter typically will not fit, can cause problems if they define a shape where another shape needs to be inserted into it, as with a slotted joint or inlay