Nx4 Nx5 Cam Transition

NX 4 NX 5 CAM Transition
Student Guide
July 2007
MT11015-45 NX 5
Publication Number
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Proprietary and restricted rights notice
This software and related documentation are proprietary to UGS Corp.

Copyright 2007 UGS Corp. All Rights Reserved.
All trademarks belong to their respective holders.
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Contents
Course Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
General enhancements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
Tool tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Machine time in the Operation Navigator . . . . .
Path length in the Operation Navigator . . . . . .
Simulation and verification (ISV) user interface
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1-2
1-3
1-4
1-5
Milling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
Contour profile tilt angle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Activity: Tilt the tool away from a wall . . . . .
Optimized cut levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Activity: Optimize cut levels on a core . . . . . .
Finish passes when roughing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Activity: Planar mill using contact contour . .
Simplify shapes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Activity: Simplify shapes in face milling . . . .
Tangent arc moves for manual cut pattern . . . . . . . .
Streamline drive method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Activity: Create variable streamline tool path
Generic motion controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Activity: Drill using generic motion . . . . . . . .
5 axis z-level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Activity: Define tool axis tilt away from part .
Non-cutting moves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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. 2-2
. 2-3
. 2-5
. 2-6
. 2-8
. 2-9
2-12
2-13
2-17
2-19
2-20
2-26
2-27
2-39
2-40
2-43
Turning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
Custom boundary stock for splines . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accelerate/decelerate limit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Activity: Specify accelerate/decelerate limit
Level/Blank, Level/Safe engages . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Activity: Specify safe and extend distance .
Auto retract for plunge roughing . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Activity: Specify auto retract . . . . . . . . . . .
Avoidance parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Activity: Direct motion to start of engage . .
Tolerance offset before containment . . . . . . . . . . .
Tracking points . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
UGS Corp., All Rights Reserved
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. 3-2
. 3-3
. 3-4
. 3-7
. 3-8
3-11
3-12
3-15
3-16
3-19
3-20
Contents
Two-phase drilling motion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-21

Activity: Define a two-phase drilling motion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-22
Feature-based machining . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Machining Feature Navigator (MFN) . .
Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operations column . . . . . . . . . .
Manual hole making . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Activity: Drill holes manually . .
Avoidance geometry in hole making . . .
Activity: Define clearance planes
Feature resequencing . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Activity: Resequence holes . . . .
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. 4-2
. 4-3
. 4-4
. 4-5
. 4-6
. 4-9
4-10
4-15
4-16
NX CAM Express . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

CAM Express role . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
CAM Express home page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
CAM Express tutorials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Course Overview
This course will show you what is new in NX 5 for the Manufacturing
application. For some topics, there are brief activities.
Intended Audience
This course is intended for anyone needing to know the differences in
Manufacturing functionality between NX 4 and NX 5.
Prerequisites
Basic understanding of the NX 4 Manufacturing application.
Lesson
General enhancements
This lesson introduces general enhancements that apply broadly across the
Manufacturing application.
1-1
Tool tips
Menu bars, toolbars, and dialog boxes display tool tips.
1-2
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Machine time in the Operation Navigator

The Operation Navigator displays estimated cutting times for operations and
programs. The units are in hours, minutes, and seconds. If the feed rates are
edited, the time is updated immediately. For turning operations with SFM or
SMM feed rates, the time is calculated based on Max RPM.
1-3
Path length in the Operation Navigator

The Operation Navigator displays estimated tool path cutting lengths for
operations and programs.
1-4
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Simulation and verification (ISV) user interface

The Simulation Control Panel dialog box has collapsible groups (1) that make
it easy to display just the information you want to see. User preferences
control which items to display in the ISV status area (2), so changing the
machine tool driver (MTD) is not necessary. The new Stationary Tool (3)
option makes it possible to keep the tool stationary as the tool path is
simulated.
The Synchronization Manager dialog box has new options: Show Channel
Window turns the channel window on and off. IPW turns the In Process
Workpiece display on and off.
1-5
Lesson
Milling
This lesson introduces enhancements that apply to Milling.
2-1
Milling
Contour profile tilt angle

Tilt Angle tilts the tool away from the wall (1) when Variable Axis Contour
Profiling. This is useful when finishing regions between walls and floors.
2-2
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Milling
Activity: Tilt the tool away from a wall
Open tilt_angle.
Choose StartManufacturing.
Replay a tool path with no tilt angle
In the Program Order View of the Operation Navigator, double-click

CONTOUR_PROFILE.
NC_PROGRAM
Unused Items
PROGRAM
CAVITY_MILL
CONTOUR_PROFILE
Click Replay
The side of the tool contacts the wall.
Specify a tilt angle
Click Cutting Parameters

.
2-3
Milling
Click the Tool Axis Control tab.
Type 15 in the Tilt Angle box.
Click OK.
Click Generate
The side of the tool clears the wall.
2-4
Click OK to complete the operation.
Close the part.
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Milling
Optimized cut levels

Optimized cut levels automatically reduces cut depth when encountering
shallow regions. This results in tool paths that are spread uniformly on steep
and shallow regions maintaining a consistent surface finish.
Optimized cut levels is available for ZLEVEL_PROFILE_STEEP,

ZLEVEL_PROFILE, and ZLEVEL_CORNER operations.
2-5
Milling
Activity: Optimize cut levels on a core
Open optimized_cut _levels.
Replay constant cut level

ZLEVEL_PROFILE.
NC_PROGRAM
Unused Items
PROGRAM
ZLEVEL_FOLLOW_CORE
ZLEVEL_PROFILE
Click Replay
The cut depth (measured along the ZM axis) is equal in steep (1) and shallow
(2) regions.
Optimize the cut level
2-6
Click Cut Levels
.
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Milling
Select Optimized from the Cut Levels list.
Click OK.
Click Generate
2
.
The cut depths have been reduced in the shallow regions, producing
consistent scallops.
Close the part.
2-7
Milling
Finish passes when roughing

Planar Milling, Face Milling, and Cavity Milling allow you to create
additional finish passes when roughing. The finish passes can be generated
as non-cutcom, centerline-cutcom, and contact contour output.
1. Centerline tool path output

2. Contact Contour tool path output
Additional finish passes do not apply to Standard Drive.
2-8
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Milling
Activity: Planar mill using contact contour
Open contact_contour_1.
Observe the roughing tool path
In the graphics window (away from the part), right-click and choose
Orient ViewTop.
In the toolbar, choose Static Wireframe

PLNR_M_PKT_1.
NC_PROGRAM
PROGRAM
Unused Items
PLNR_M_PKT
UNDERCUT
PLNR_M_PKT_1
Click Replay
2-9
Milling
The roughing tool path contains no finish pass.
Add a finish pass
You will add one finish pass to the roughing tool path.
Select the Add Finish Passes check box.
The material remaining for the finish pass to remove (Finish Stepover) will
equal 5 percent of the tool diameter.
Click OK.
Click Generate
A finish pass removes the remaining material along the cavity and island
walls.
Specify cutter compensation
Cutter compensation makes it possible to get the same results for a tool path
when you use different size tools.
2-10
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Milling
Click Non Cutting Moves
Click the Cutter Compensation tab.
Select Final Finish Pass from the Cutcom Location list.
Output Contact/Tracking Data outputs tool contact locations (where the

cutter contacts the part) rather than tool end point locations (center of cutter).
This option is available only if one finish pass (Final Finish Pass) is specified.
Select the Output Contact/Tracking Data check box.
Click OK.
Click Generate
A 0.10 inch minimum move and 10 degree minimum angle cutter

compensation is applied to the final finish pass (1). Tool contact locations are
output along the walls for the finish pass (2).
Close the part.
2-11
Milling
Simplify shapes
Simplify Shapes is a face milling parameter that simplifies the cut area so the
tool does not need to follow the exact shape of the geometry. It is applied to
the main shape of the cut area and is not applied to holes.
Simplify Shapes is available in the Cut Parameters and Create Manual Cut
Pattern dialog boxes. It can be set to None (1), Convex Hull (2), or Minimum
Box (3).
2-12
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Milling
Activity: Simplify shapes in face milling

This activity compares the three Simplify Shapes options.
Open simplify_shapes_1.
Simplify Shapes: None

FACE_MILLING.
NC_PROGRAM
PROGRAM
FACE_MILLING
Simplify Shapes is set to None with a 100% tool diameter blank overhang by
default.
Click OK.
Click Generate
2-13
Milling
The cut region follows the shape of the face because the cut area is not
simplified.
Click OK to generate the tool path.
Simplify Shapes: Convex Hull
2-14
Select Convex Hull from the Simplify Shapes list.
Click OK.
Click Generate
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Milling
The cut area follows the general shape of the face, but is simplified by
eliminating concave contours.
Simplify Shapes: Minimum Box
Select Minimum Box from the Simplify Shapes list.
Click OK.
Click Generate
2-15
Milling
The cut area does not follow the shape of the face, but is instead enclosed by
a minimum box.
2-16
Close the part.
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Milling
Tangent arc moves for manual cut pattern

New moves have been added to Manual Cut Pattern for Face Milling
operations.
Reposition To Point
Reposition To Shape
Reposition To Arc Line
Move To Point
Tangent Arc Move To Point
Tangent Arc Line Move To Point
Move To Shape
Move Linear Tangent To/From Shape
Move Arc Tangent To/From Shape
Tangent Arc Move To Shape
Tangent Arc Line Move To Shape
Move Along Shape
Tangent Arc Move
Move Delta
Move Vector Distance
Move Vector Point
Move Vector To Shape
Machine Control Events
Tangent Arc moves are useful when creating manually smooth cutting
motions in the tool path, especially for filleting the corners. Tangent Arc and
Tangent Arc Line moves can be used when creating an arc tangential to the
current motion. The Reposition To Arc line move can be used when creating a
circular engage followed by a tangential linear move at the beginning cutting
a region. All the new moves are available in the Create Manual Cut Pattern
dialog in the Face Milling operations.
2-17
Milling
2-18
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Milling
Streamline drive method

Streamline is a new drive method available for fixed (1) and variable (2)
contour operations.
Streamline creates an interpolated cut pattern defined by flow curves (1) and
cross curves (2). This drive method gives direct control over how the cut
pattern is made and is recommended for most contour finishing operations.
2-19
Milling
Activity: Create variable streamline tool path
Open streamline.
Specify variable streamline operation
Click Create Operation
In the Create Operation dialog box, select mill_multi-axis from the Type
list.
Click VARIABLE_STREAMLINE
Specify the following:
Click OK.
Specify cut area
The cut area determines flow curves and cross curves for automatic selection.
2-20
Click Specify Cut Area
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Milling
Select the sixteen faces indicated below.

Note
You may select the faces in any order.
Click OK.
Observe flow and cross curve directions
Click Edit
Be sure Automatic has been selected from the Selection Method list.
in the Drive Method section of the dialog box.
Flow curves and cross curves are determined automatically from the cut area.
The flow curves determine the cut direction (1).
In the Flow Curves section of the dialog box, Expand

the List.
2-21
Milling
Flow 1 and Flow 2 appear in the list as the two flow curves automatically
defined by the cut area.
In the Cross Curves section of the dialog box, Expand
the List.
Cross 1 and Cross 2 appear in the list as the two cross curves automatically
defined by the cut area.
Click OK.
Specify projection vector and tool axis
In the Projection Vector section of the dialog box, Select Normal to Drive
from the Vector list.
In the Tool Axis section of the dialog box, Select Normal to Part from
the Axis list.
Click Generate
Change the cut direction
2-22
Click Edit
Click Specify Cut Direction
in the Drive Method section of the dialog box.
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Milling
Select the vector indicated below to define the new cut direction.
The new cut direction (1) displays.
Redefine cross curves
You can add and delete cross curves and flow curves. In this example, you will
redefine the cross curves so that the tool path is restricted to a smaller area.
In the Cross Curves section of the dialog box, select Cross 2 in the
expanded list.
Click Remove
Select Cross 1 and click Remove.
In the Cross Curves section of the dialog box, click Curve
2-23
Milling
Select the cross curve indicated below.
Click Reverse Direction

direction indicated below.
Click Add New Set
Select the cross curve indicated below.

if necessary so that the vector points in the
same direction as that of the first cross curve.
Click OK.
2-24
if necessary so that the vector points in the
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Milling
Click Generate
Close the part.
2-25
Milling
Generic motion controller

Generic Motion is a new multi-axis operation type that programs and
positions tools or other devices in a step-by-step manner.
It is useful when positioning cutting tools, probes, spray heads, welding

heads, and any other programmable device or tool where individual motion
control is needed.
2-26
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Milling
Activity: Drill using generic motion
Open generic_motion.
Create generic motion operation
In the Create Operation dialog box, select mill_multi-axis from the Type
list.
Click GENERIC_MOTION
Click OK.
2-27
Milling
Traverse to a point
Click Add New Sub-Operation
Select Linear Move To Point from the Type list.
Select the existing point.
Expand
the Motion section of the dialog box and select Traversal
from the Motion Type list.
Select Use Motion from the Feed Rate Type list.
Use Motion allows the sub-operation to inherit the traversal feed rate of
60.0000 ipm defined in MILL_METHOD.
Click OK.
GENERIC_MOTION
Linear_Move_To_Point
Traverse to first hole
2-28
Be sure Linear Move To Point is still selected from the Type list.
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Milling
Select the center point at the top of the countersunk hole.
Be sure Traversal and Use Motion are selected.
Click OK.
GENERIC_MOTION
Linear_Move_To_Point_1
Drill first hole
Select Linear Move along Tool Axis from the Type list.
Type 3.0 in the Distance box.
This defines the depth of cut.
Expand the Motion section of the dialog box and select Cut from the
Motion Type list.
Be sure Use Motion is selected from the Feed Rate Type list.
This allows the sub-operation to inherit the cut feed rate of 10.0000 ipm
defined in MILL_METHOD.
2-29
Milling
Click OK.
GENERIC_MOTION
Linear_Move_along_Tool_Axis
Retract from first hole
Be sure Linear Move along Tool Axis is selected from the Type list.
This defines the retract distance.
Select Retract from the Motion Type list.
This allows the sub-operation to inherit the retract feed rate of 20.0000 ipm
Click OK.
GENERIC_MOTION
Linear_Move_along_Tool_Axis_1
Rapid to second hole
2-30
Select Rotary Point Vector Move from the Type list.
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Milling
Select the center point at the top of the diagonal hole.
Select the face of the diagonal hole to define the vector orientation.

indicated below.
so that the vector points in the direction
2-31
Milling
Expand the Motion section of the dialog box and select Rapid from the
Motion Type list.
This allows the sub-operation to inherit the rapid feed rate of 100.0000 ipm
Click OK.
GENERIC_MOTION
Rotary_Point_Vector_Move
Pilot drill second hole
Select Cut from the Motion Type list.
Click OK.
GENERIC_MOTION
2-32
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Milling
Retract from second hole
Click OK.
GENERIC_MOTION
Rapid to third hole
Select Rotary Point Vector Move from the Type list.
2-33
Milling
Select the center point at the top of the vertical hole.
Select the face of the vertical hole to define the vector orientation.
Select Rapid from the Motion Type list.
2-34
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Milling
Click OK.
GENERIC_MOTION
Rotary_Point_Vector_Move_1
Pilot drill third hole
Select Cut from the Motion Type list.
Click OK.
GENERIC_MOTION
2-35
Milling
Retract from third hole
Click OK.
GENERIC_MOTION
Rapid to a point
2-36
Select Linear Move To Point from the Type list.
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Milling
Select the existing point.
Select Rapid from the Motion Type list.
Click OK.
GENERIC_MOTION
2-37
Milling
Animate the tool
In the Generic Motion dialog box, click Play
Close the part.
2-38
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Milling
5 axis z-level
ZLEVEL_5AXIS is a new multi-axis operation type that allows the tool axis
to be tilted away from the part or tilted using specified geometry to avoid
shank/holder collision.
Typically, to cut steep, deep walls with small fillets and features requires the
use of tall, smaller diameter cutting tools. This operation allows the use
of shorter tools by tilting the tool axis and avoiding shank/holder collision,
enabling higher feed-rates and chip-loads.
The automatic tilt angle (1) is computed using a specified maximum wall
height (2). The tool is tilted until the noncutting portion of the effective tool
(trimmed at the effective tool height) clears the imaginary vertical wall by
the minimum clearance distance (3).
2-39
Milling
Activity: Define tool axis tilt away from part
Open zlevel_5axis1.
Create 5 axis z-level operation
Select mill_multi-axis from the Type list.
Click ZLEVEL_5AXIS
Click OK.
Define operation parameters
2-40
Select Away from part from the Tool Axis Tilt list.
Type 1.75 in the Maximum Wall Height box.
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Milling
The Maximum Wall Height (1) defines the length of the tool needed to clear
the part. The tilt angle (2) is measured from the vertical (ZM) axis.
Click Cut Levels
Select the horizontal face to define the range depth.
Type 0.10 in the Global Depth per cut box.
Click OK.
Generate tool path
Click Generate
Click Verify
2-41
Milling
Click Play
Click OK to complete the tool path visualization.
Close the part.
2-42
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Milling
Non-cutting moves
The various non-cutting moves that were previously located in different
places for different operation types are now consolidated into one dialog box.
The new Non-Cutting Moves dialog box is easy to use, is the same for all
milling operations, provides direct control over the non-cutting moves, and
produces a cleaner, safer tool path.
The Non-Cutting Moves
dialog box replaces these dialog boxes:
Engage/Retract
Automatic Engage/Retract
Transfer/Rapid
Control Geometry
Avoidance
Non-cutting Moves (surface contouring)
Cutter Compensation
2-43
Milling
The new non-cutting moves are applicable to the following operations:
2-44
Planar
Zlevel milling
Cavity milling
Planar milling
Face milling
Engraving
Surface Contouring
Fixed axis surface contouring
Variable axis surface contouring
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Lesson
Turning
3
This lesson introduces enhancements that apply to Turning.
3-1
Turning
Custom boundary stock for splines

Custom Boundary Offset/Stock now yields a better surface quality when
adding stock in areas where spline segments and other adjacent segments
meet. When a Tolerance Offset is applied to spline members, the adjacent
segment is tangentially continued (1), eliminating the unwanted bulge (2).
3-2
In the Geometry View of the Operation Navigator, double-click

TURN_WORKPIECE.
In the TurnBnd dialog box, click Specify Part Boundaries
In the Part Boundaries dialog box, click Edit.
In the Edit Member dialog box, select the Offset check box.
With General selected in the Offset list, type the offset value.
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Turning
Accelerate/decelerate limit
Accelerate/Decelerate Limit prevents acceleration or deceleration motions
that are shorter than the specified Minimum Length value.
3-3
Turning
Activity: Specify accelerate/decelerate limit
Open accelerate_decelerate.
Accelerate/decelerate motions with no limit

FINISH_TURN_OD.
NC_PROGRAM
Unused Items
PROGRAM
ROUGH_ZIG_OD
ROUGH_TURN_OD
FINISH_TURN_OD
Click Edit Display
Click Other Options.
Select the Paint Feeds check box.
This will display feed rate values along the tool path.
3-4
Click OK.
Click OK in the Display Options dialog box.
Click Feed Rates.
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Turning
Expand
the Accelerate/Decelerate Limit section of the dialog box.
Because the Minimum Length check box is clear, the different ramping feed
rates will be reflected in the tool path.
Click OK.
Click Replay
Specify a minimum length
Click Feed Rates.
Select the Minimum Length check box.
Type 0.3 in the Minimum Length box.
Click OK.
Click Generate
3-5
Turning
The short ramped cuts in the areas of the relief feature and the groove are
no longer cut at a different feed rate. This is because the ramp cuts are less
than 0.300 in length.
3-6
Click Cancel.
Close the part.
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Turning
Level/Blank, Level/Safe engages

You can specify a Safe Distance (1) for Level/Blank engages and an Extend
Distance (2) for Level/Safe engages when roughing.
3-7
Turning
Activity: Specify safe and extend distance
Open engage.
Replay a tool path with no safe or extend distance

ROUGH_TURN_OD.
NC_PROGRAM
Unused Items
PROGRAM
ROUGH_TURN_OD
Click Replay
Zoom In
on the end of the part.
There is no Safe Distance or Extend Distance.
3-8
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Turning
Specify a safe distance
Click Engage/Retract.
Click Level/Blank.
Type 0.2500 in the Safe Distance box.
Click OK.
Click Generate
Click OK to accept the information dialog box.
3
.
Specify an extend distance
Click Level/Safe.
Type 0.5000 in the Extend Distance box.
Click OK.
3-9
Turning
Click Generate
Close the part.
3-10
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Turning
Auto retract for plunge roughing

The Auto retract options prevent the tool from dragging along walls during
retract moves when plunging with alternate, zig, or zig-zag cut strategies.
3-11
Turning
Activity: Specify auto retract
Open auto_retract.
Replay a tool path with auto retract

GROOVE_OD.
NC_PROGRAM
Unused Items
CENTERLINE_SPOTDRILL
CENTERLINE_BREAKCHIP
FACING
ROUGH_TURN_OD
GROOVE_FACE
GROOVE_OD
3-12
Click Replay
Zoom In
on the tool path.
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Turning
There is no auto retract. The tool drags along the wall as it retracts.
3
Specify an auto retract
Click the Retract tab.
Click Plunge.
Select Clear Walls by Angle and Distance from the Auto retract option
list.
Type 45 in the Angle box.
Click OK.
Click Generate
The tool clears the wall by a distance of 0.050 before retracting.
3-13
Turning
Close the part.
3-14
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Turning
Avoidance parameters
Automatic
motions create avoidance moves parallel and
perpendicular to the spindle axis whenever possible. Prefer Direct Motion
check boxes allow Automatic motions to create direct moves when possible.
Direct motions are generally preferred when moving the tool from or to
a distant point.
3-15
Turning
Activity: Direct motion to start of engage
Open prefer_direct_motion.
Replay a tool path with direct motion to start of engage

ROUGH_BORE_ID.
NC_PROGRAM
PROGRAM
CENTERLINE_BREAKCHIP
FACING
ROUGH_TURN_OD
GROOVE_FACE
GROOVE_OD
GROOVE_OD_1
GROOVE_OD_2
ROUGH_BORE_ID
ROUGH_BORE_ID_1
3-16
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Turning
Click Replay
The Prefer Direct Motion options are currently active, allowing direct moves
to be created where possible.
Remove direct motion to start of engage
Click Avoidance.
Click the More tab.
Clear the To Start of Engage check box.
Click OK.
Click Generate
3-17
Turning
Click OK to accept the information dialog boxes.
Close the part.
3-18
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Turning
Tolerance offset before containment

Tolerance Offset Before Containment applies tolerance member offsets before
a trim plane or trim point containment takes effect.
This is useful when the containment intersects features like chamfers or

rounds that have a tolerance offset assigned to them (1).
In a roughing or finishing operation dialog box, click Containment.
Select the Tolerance Offset Before Containment check box.
3-19
Turning
Tracking points
The Tracking Selection dialog box is easier to use. It shows the name of the
active tracking point (1) and allows you to choose between Inherited (2) and
Local (3) XOFF, YOFF, ADJUST Register and CUTCOM Register values.
3-20
In the Machine Control dialog box, click Define Tracking.
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Turning
Two-phase drilling motion

Individual feeds and speeds for engage and drill to depth allow a two-phase
drilling motion. Engaging at a lower feed rate (1) and then drilling to full
depth at a high feed rate (2) supports deep-hole boring with super-drill tools.
3-21
Turning
Activity: Define a two-phase drilling motion
Open engage_motion.
Replay a tool path with a single-phase motion

CENTERLINE_DRILLING.
NC_PROGRAM
PROGRAM
CENTERLINE_DRILLING
Click Replay
Create a tool path with a two-phase motion
3-22
In the CENTERLINE_DRILLING dialog box, click Settings
Type 0.25 in the Engage Distance box.
Click OK.
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Turning
In the CENTERLINE_DRILLING dialog box, click Feed Rates.
Select RPM from the Output Mode list.
Select the Maximum RPM check box.
Type 2000 in the Maximum RPM box.
Select the Engage Spindle Speed check box.
Type 100 in the Engage Spindle Speed box.
In the Feed Rates section of the dialog box, type 0.05 in the Engage box.
Click OK.
Click Generate
The operation uses a 100 RPM, 0.050 IPR, 0.25 deep engage motion (1) and a
2000 RPM drill to depth motion (2).
Click Cancel.
Close the part.
3-23
Lesson
Feature-based machining
This lesson introduces enhancements that apply to Feature-Based Machining.
4-1
Machining Feature Navigator (MFN)

The Machining Feature Navigator (MFN)
replaces the Manufacturing
Feature Manager (MFM). It contains three panels.
1. Main panel
The main panel can be displayed in two views. The Feature View lists all
machining features under the Features root node. The Group View lists
all machining features organized by feature groups. To change views,
right-click in an empty area of the main panel and choose Feature View
or Group View.
2. Details panel
The Details panel displays attributes of selected features. Selecting a set
of features of the same type from the graphics screen or the main panel
will display the common attributes. There are four columns; Name, Value,
Overridden, and Original Value. Only the Value column can be edited.
3. Preview panel
The Preview panel displays the image of the feature type when available.
If all the selected features are of the same feature type the preview panel
will show the image. If the image of the feature type is not available,
the space will be left blank.
4-2
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Filter
Use Filter allows you to select a feature filter by right-clicking on the
Machining Feature Navigator background. The selected filter lists features
in the MFN based on the attributes specified by the filter. The name of the
current filter is displayed next to Feature Name in parenthesis (Filtered:
Filter Name).
4-3
Operations column
An Operations column has been added to the Group View in the MFN. If the
group has a process, the Operations column will display a check.
4-4
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Manual hole making

Manual hole making allows you to machine non-feature geometry such
as points, arcs, and edges, that are not recognized and processed by
feature-based hole making.
4-5
Activity: Drill holes manually
Open holemaking.
4
Disable feature group creation
These steps allow you to create feature geometry groups from the Create
Geometry dialog box.
Choose PreferencesManufacturing in the menu bar.
In the Manufacturing Preferences dialog box, click the Geometry tab.
Clear the Create Feature Groups check box.
Click OK.
Select geometry for manual hole making
These steps define the geometry you will drill.
4-6
Click Create Geometry
Select hole_making from the Type list.
Click MANUAL_HOLE
Select WORKPIECE from the Geometry list.
Click OK.
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Select the edges of the two holes.
Select the point and the two circles.
Click OK.
Specify drilling operation parameters
These steps specify the operation type and the parent groups that define
essential information and parameters for drilling the hole in the center
of the part.
Click MANUAL_HOLE_MAKING
Specify the following.
Click OK.
4-7
Type 15 in the Depth box.
Generate the tool path
4-8
In the Options section of the dialog box, click Edit Display
Select 3-D from the Tool Display list.
Click OK.
Click Generate
Close the part.
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Avoidance geometry in hole making

Transition moves can utilize a clearance plane that is parallel to the tool axis
(1). This is useful when the distance around the obstacle (2) is shorter than
the distance over the obstacle. The tool retracts along the axis normal to
the clearance plane.
4-9
Activity: Define clearance planes
Open avoidance.
4
Defining the workpiece

WORKPIECE.
GEOMETRY
Unused Items
MCS
WORKPIECE
4-10
Click Specify Part
Select the part body.
Click OK.
Click OK in the Mill Geom dialog box.
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Identifying CAD/UD features
Machinable features can be determined from the workpiece or from all bodies
in the part.
Click the Machining Feature Navigator tab
Right-click on the Machining Feature Navigator background and choose

Identify CAD/UD FeaturesFrom Workpiece.
Select SIMPLE_HOLE from the Feature Types list.
Click OK.
All simple holes in the workpiece are identified and listed in the Machining
Feature Navigator.
Creating operations
Right-click over the four highlighted features and choose Create

Geometry.
4-11
Click SIMPLE_HOLE
Select WORKPIECE from the Geometry list.
Click OK.
The features will take a moment to process.
Click OK to accept DIAMETER in the Simple Hole dialog box.
Close
4
the Information window.
Defining a vertical clearance plane

SPOT_DRILL_SIMPLE_HOLE.
GEOMETRY
Unused Items
MCS
WORKPIECE
SIMPLE_HOLE
SPOT_DRILL_SIMPLE_HOLE
DRILL_SIMPLE_HOLE
4-12
Click Avoidance Geometry
Click Clearance Plane None.
Click Specify.
Type 0.250 in the Offset box.
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Select the front face of the part.
Click OK in the Plane Constructor dialog box.
Click OK in the Clearance Plane dialog box.
Click OK one last time.
Click Generate
The tool retracts to the vertical clearance plane between holes.

Specifying a vertical clearance
A vertical clearance allows the tool to travel over or around obstacles based
on the shortest retract distance.
Select the Collision Check check box.
Type 0.100 in the Vertical Clearance box.
Click Generate
4-13
The distance over the boss including the vertical clearance (1) is shorter
than the distance around the boss via the vertical clearance plane. The
distance around the wall (2) via the vertical clearance plane is shorter than
the distance over the wall.
4-14
Close the part.
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Feature resequencing
You can specify start (1) and end (2) features for tool path optimization.
If you do not specify start and end features, the system determines them
automatically.
4-15
Activity: Resequence holes
Open feature_resequence.
4
Observe existing tool path

DRILL_SIMPLE_HOLE.
NC_PROGRAM
Unused Items
PROGRAM
SPOT_DRILL
SPOT_DRILL_SIMPLE_HOLE
DRILL
DRILL_SIMPLE_HOLE
4-16
Click Verify
Click Play
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Notice the current start (1) and end (2) features.
Click OK.
Specify the start feature
In the Hole Making dialog box, choose Edit Parameters
Click Start Feature
Click Select.
Select the corner hole indicated below.
Click OK.
Click OK in the Minimize Tool Travel dialog box.
Generate the tool path
Click Generate
4-17
Click Verify
Click Play
The tool path begins at the specified start feature (1) and ends at a
system-determined end feature (2).
4-18
Click OK.
Close the part.
mt11015-45_g NX 5
Lesson
NX CAM Express
NX CAM Express is designed to make the Manufacturing application easy

to deploy and use. By utilizing the NX CAM Express Role, industry-specific
setups, and workflow tutorials, NX CAM Express helps you achieve a basic
working knowledge of NX CAM and become an independent, self-sufficient
user quickly and easily.
5-1
NX CAM Express
CAM Express role

The NX CAM Express Role provides setups that are pre-configured to industry
best-practices, allowing system functionality and user interface to more
closely meet specific industry needs. Embedded tutorials provide learning
activities that introduce basic system functionality within the context of best
practices and complete start-to-finish processes commonly used in industry.
The NX CAM Express role:
Makes it easier for you to find what you need by displaying only the
essential options in the toolbar.
Provides setups that place the work part in an assembly.
Provides simplified dialog boxes displaying only the essential options.
Allows you to create geometry commonly needed for programming such as

points, basic curves, rectangles, blocks, and cylinders.
Displays the NX CAM Express home page in the browser of the resource
bar.
The NX CAM Express role is the default role for NX CAM Express. If you
are not running NX CAM Express, you can find the NX CAM Express role
by clicking Roles tab
Industry Specific view list CAM Express
5-2
mt11015-45_g NX 5
NX CAM Express
CAM Express home page

The NX CAM Express home page provides a starting point for many of the
most common activities of new users including:
1. Opening existing Solid Edge and NX setups, existing Solid Edge and NX
parts, and showing a history of most recently opened parts.
2. Creating a new setup for the current work part.
3. Changing your current role.
4. Accessing the online help library.
In addition, NX CAM Express provides self-study tutorials that cover

essential out-of-the-box CAM functionality within the context of best practices
and complete start-to-finish workflows commonly used in industry.
5-3
NX CAM Express
CAM Express tutorials

NX CAM Express workflow tutorials introduce basic system functionality
within the context of best practices and complete start-to-finish processes
commonly used in industry. The intent is for students to achieve a basic
working knowledge of NX CAM and to become independent, self-sufficient
users as quickly and easily as possible.
Each workflow includes:
Opening a sample part
Choosing a setup
Defining geometry, tools, and common parameters
Programming operations
Generating tool paths
Postprocessing
Creating shop documentation
The tutorials include Getting Started (1), Die Machining (2), Plate Machining
(3), Turning (4), and Mill-Turn (5).
To open Solid Edge part (.par) or assembly (asm.) files from NX

Manufacturing when using any role other than Express, choose
FileUtilities Open Solid Edge file for CAM in the menu bar.
If the option is hidden:
1. Choose ToolsCustomize.
2. In the Customize dialog box, click the Commands tab.
3. In the Categories list, select FileUtilities.
5-4
mt11015-45_g NX 5
NX CAM Express
4. In the Commands list, select Open Solid Edge file for CAM.
5. Drag and drop Open Solid Edge file for CAM into the toolbar.
5-5

Nx4 Nx5 Cam Transition

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Proprietary and restricted rights notice

This software and related documentation are proprietary to UGS Corp.

Two-phase drilling motion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-21

NX CAM Express . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

UGS Corp., All Rights Reserved

UGS Corp., All Rights Reserved

UGS Corp., All Rights Reserved

UGS Corp., All Rights Reserved

Machine time in the Operation Navigator

UGS Corp., All Rights Reserved

Path length in the Operation Navigator

UGS Corp., All Rights Reserved

Simulation and verification (ISV) user interface

UGS Corp., All Rights Reserved

This lesson introduces enhancements that apply to Milling.

UGS Corp., All Rights Reserved

Contour profile tilt angle

UGS Corp., All Rights Reserved

Activity: Tilt the tool away from a wall

Replay a tool path with no tilt angle

In the Program Order View of the Operation Navigator, double-click

The side of the tool contacts the wall.

Specify a tilt angle

Click Cutting Parameters

Click the Tool Axis Control tab.

Type 15 in the Tilt Angle box.

The side of the tool clears the wall.

Click OK to complete the operation.

Close the part.

UGS Corp., All Rights Reserved

Optimized cut levels

Optimized cut levels is available for ZLEVEL_PROFILE_STEEP,

UGS Corp., All Rights Reserved

Activity: Optimize cut levels on a core

Open optimized_cut _levels.

Replay constant cut level

In the Program Order View of the Operation Navigator, double-click

Optimize the cut level

Click Cut Levels

Select Optimized from the Cut Levels list.

Click OK to complete the operation.

Close the part.

UGS Corp., All Rights Reserved

Finish passes when roughing

1. Centerline tool path output

Additional finish passes do not apply to Standard Drive.

UGS Corp., All Rights Reserved

Activity: Planar mill using contact contour

Observe the roughing tool path

In the toolbar, choose Static Wireframe

In the Program Order View of the Operation Navigator, double-click

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The roughing tool path contains no finish pass.

Add a finish pass

Click Cutting Parameters

Select the Add Finish Passes check box.

Specify cutter compensation

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Click Non Cutting Moves

Click the Cutter Compensation tab.

Select Final Finish Pass from the Cutcom Location list.

Output Contact/Tracking Data outputs tool contact locations (where the

Select the Output Contact/Tracking Data check box.