Description

This tool creates a new profile tool path, based on the current selection. A profile tool path is tool path that follows a profile with the tool center either on the geometry or using a tool radius correction to the left or right side of the geometry.

Usage

1. Select the profile(s) you want to use as a basis for the profile toolpath. You can select one or multiple open or closed profiles. A profile typically consists of a polyline or a selection of connected lines, arcs, ellipse arcs and splines. If you need full control of the start point and direction of a profile toolpath, make sure that all your profiles consist of polylines with the desired start point and direction.
2. Start this tool.
3. The profile toolpath dialog is shown with the various parameters that define a toolpath.
   • Name: Name of the toolpath, unique per configuration.
   • Tool: The tool number of the tool used to process the toolpath. You can also add a tool by clicking on the plus symbol.
   • Feed Rate: The feed rate to use for this particular tool path. This defaults to the feed rate of the chosen tool but can be adjusted for each toolpath individually if desired.
   • Plunge Rate: The feed rate used for downward moves. This defaults to the plunge rate of the chosen tool but can be adjusted for each toolpath individually if desired.
   Cutting Depths:
   • Safe Z (a): The Z level used to approach the toolpath at rapid move (clearance, approaching level).
   • Start Depth (b): The Z level at which the material begins (typically 0).
   • Cut Depth (c): The final cutting depth, measured from the start depth. Note that cut depth is a distance (positive), not a Z level.
   • Passes: The number of passes to use to reach the final cutting depth or 1 to cut to the final depth in a single pass.
   Side / Direction:
   • Side: The side for the tool radius compensation or On to cut with the tool center on the profile.
   • Direction: Cutting direction climbing (left of profile) or conventional (right of profile).
   Leads:
   • Lead In Type: Shape of lead in to use. Leads are an additional moves inserted before / after the profile to approach or leave the profile. If tool radius compensation is used, leads must be used, so the tool radius compensation can be switched on / off.
   • Lead In Type: Shape of lead out to use.
   • Lead In Length / Radius: The size of the lead in shape to use.
   • Lead Out Length / Radius: The size of the lead out shape to use.
   • Overcut: Overlapping element used at the end of a profile to cut slightly further than required. This can lead to a smoother end result.
4. Click OK to create the profile toolpath. QCAD/CAM generates the toolpath and displays the path of the tool center in the graphics view as a dashed line.