When the Tool Path Will and Will Not Be Recomputed
The tool path recomputes if one of the following situations occur:
• Manufacturing or tool parameters that affect the tool path (i.e., computation of the GOTO points on the tool path) are changed. For example, OVERLAP_DIST affects the tool path computation, while CUT_FEED does not.
• NC sequence setup references (Edge, Shake Away) are newly defined or changed.
• Dimensions associated with the NC sequence reference items (surfaces, edges) are changed.
• Cut motion dimensions are changed.
• A cut is defined for interactive cut motion.
• Nibble edge or cut motion ends are adjusted.
• Redo is used for corner conditions.
• Tool path for cut motions is recomputed if the parent NC sequence is changed.
Unless any of the changes listed have been made, the tool path is not recomputed if the tool path storage is enabled.
When the tool path is recomputed, the new data is appended to the tool path file, so the file grows with every tool path computation. When the model regenerates, the system performs "purging" of the tool path file and removes old (invalid) tool paths, to reduce the size of the tool path file.
Adjusting the Tool Path
This functionality is applicable to Punch Press type NC sequences only.
The tool path for any Punch Press NC sequence consists of a series of hits. Hits indicate each location where the tool makes contact with the workpiece and removes material; they appear as small red circles. For Nibble Edge and Nibble Area NC sequences, a succession of hits composes a stroke, which is the other element of the tool path. A stoke is a succession of hits along an edge of a reference model, or in a line across an area. Strokes appear as a series of hits connected by a line; the first hit in the stroke displays as a small, filled red circle.