Using this method, the cutting tool follows the surface profile of the work piece, always machining from low to high. The thickness of the stock left on the part is constant over the entire machining zone. KeyCreator automatically switches step over sides to maintain climb milling. This roughing method, if used in one-slab mode, is designed for machining pre-roughed stock or castings.

Toolpath generation is created in a single direction using the direction vector. When the tool encounters the geometry model, it climbs the model to the previous machining level.

When this feature is selected from the Machinist>Rough submenu, the Uni-Directional rough with Up only Z dialog appears, containing offset and tolerance settings among others. When you OK this dialog, a second dialog appears. The second dialog contains additional settings, explained below.

Once you OK the second dialog, the toolpath is created per your specifications.

Uni-Directional Rough with Up Only Z Dialog:

Toolpath Description

Specify a name or description for the toolpath being created.

Offsets

• Part Wall Stock – Specify how much stock to leave in 3D.

• Check Wall Stock – Specify the distance away from the check geometry the cutting tool will remain.

• Plunge Clearance – Specify a height above the cutting plane at which the Z-Axes will go into feed mode.

Tolerances

• Chord Height Tolerance – Specify the maximum deviation from the surface.

Cut Direction

• Angle – When checked, KeyCreator will use the angle specified in the Cutting Angle filed, under Cutting Parameters.

• Two Points – When checked, you will be prompted to indicate two points to determine the direction of the cut.

Cutting Parameters

• Stepover – Specify a stepover value to be used.

• Cutting Angle – Specify a cutting angle to be used when Angle is checked under Cut Direction.

Step Direction

• Left – When checked, the step will be directed left (looking in the direction of the cutting angle).

• Right – When checked, the step will be directed right (looking in the direction of the cutting angle).

Current Tool and Machine View

Verify that the machining view, tool diameter, and corner radius are correct.

2ND Uni-directional Rough with Up Only Z Dialog