alias

Cutter Location (CL) data files are generated from the cutter paths specified within NC sequences. These CL data files are then be passed to machine-specific or generic post-processors for NC tape generation or DNC communications. NC aliases are useful if the post-processor that you are using does not support the default CL commands output by Creo Parametric; the NC aliases substitute a command you have provided into the CL data. The NC alias may also include additional CL data associated with the command, as well as dimensions, user-defined parameters, and text. NC aliases are saved in a file with the extension NCD. NC alias files are stored automatically whenever the manufacturing model is saved.

burn-in offset

The distance to offset the toolpath at the start point for material piercing.

cluster

Parts placed in an arrangement on a sheet of material.

clustering

Placing parts in an arrangement on sheetmetal.

diagnostics

Tests to check the correct operation of hardware and software.

drag increment

The distance between parts on a sheet of material is called drag increment. Dragging is an operation of placing parts on a sheet of material. The distance to be maintained while placing these parts is specified by drag increment.

flame cutting

The procedure of cutting a metal in which the appropriate part of the material to be cut is raised to ignition temperature by an oxygen-fuel gas flame.

flame contouring

The process of removing material completely outside of a specified line or region of a sheet of metal by using oxygen-fuel gas flame.

hit

Indicates each location where the tool makes contact with the workpiece and removes material.

hybrid

A composite of two or more technologies.

idle time

Nonproductive time resulting from waiting for work due to inefficient scheduling or shortage of material for cutting.

laser contouring

The process of removing material completely outside of a specified line or region of a sheet of metal by using laser.

machine clamp

A tool for holding metal plates firmly in place.

machining time

The actual time a sheet metal part takes to machine. For example, machine time for a typical part includes machining operations such as positioning, punching or cutting, and idle time.

NC alias

Cutter Location (CL) data files are generated from the cutter paths specified within NC sequences. These CL data files are then be passed to machine-specific or generic post-processors for NC tape generation or DNC communications. NC aliases are useful if the post-processor that you are using does not support the default CL commands output by Creo Parametric; the NC aliases substitute a command you have provided into the CL data. The NC alias may also include additional CL data associated with the command, as well as dimensions, user-defined parameters, and text. NC aliases are saved in a file with the extension NCD. NC alias files are stored automatically whenever the manufacturing model is saved.

NC control tape

NC control tape contains information about the points and vertices of the cutter location output of a tool path operation in the machine code format. It is used by numerically controlled machines.

nesting

Placement of parts in an arrangement to minimize wastage of material.

nibble

To remove a narrow, parallel strip of waste material that is separated from either of the two pieces resulting from a cutting operation.

optimization set

A set of rules used to improve the tool path of an operation by minimizing tool change, tool rotations, and tool travel and by removing the duplicate hits and cut lines.

overhang

The distance by which an actual tool path increases. The distance specified by overhang is added to the actual tool path.

overlap distance

The distance by which each hit overlaps the previous one. A hit indicates a location where the tool makes contact with the workpiece and removes material.

pad

A metal plate, either flat or contoured, that holds, controls, or strips the metal during the cutting and forming process.

priority weight

The order in which the parts are placed on a sheet of material is determined by priority weight. For example, a priority weight of 0.1 is given precedence over a priority weight of 0.9.

punch location

A location where the tool makes contact with the workpiece and removes material by making holes.

reposition pad

A metal plate, either flat or contoured, that holds, controls, or strips the metal during the cutting and forming process.

scan

To examine closely by moving quickly and systematically.

shake-away point

The points that specify the distance by which an actual tool path decreases. The area between the shake-away points is discarded from the actual tool path.

slitting

A process by which wide sheets of metal are cut into smaller or narrower strips.

turret punch press

A pivoting attachment for holding tools for making holes or indentations .

wasted area

Area on a sheet of material where parts are not placed. This area is normally discarded during machining.