Libro MastercamX6 Artl

Art Training Tutorial
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Mastercam X6 Art Training Tutorial
Copyright: 1998 - 2011 In-House Solutions Inc. All rights reserved
Software: Mastercam X6
Author: Mariana Lendel
ISBN: 978-1-926955-41-4
Revision Date: March 15, 2012
Notice
In-House Solutions Inc. reserves the right to make improvements to this manual at any time and without
notice.
Disclaimer Of All Warranties And Liability
In-House Solutions Inc. makes no warranties, either express or implied, with respect to this manual or
with respect to the software described in this manual, its quality, performance, merchantability, or
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Copyrights
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Trademarks
Mastercam is a registered trademark of CNC Software, Inc.
Microsoft, the Microsoft logo, MS, and MS-DOS are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation;
N-See is a registered trademark of Microcompatibles, Inc.; Windows, Windows XP, Windows Vista,
Windows NT and Windows 7 are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
GETTING STARTED
GETTING STARTED
Objectives:
The Student will learn how to download and unzip a file.

The Student will learn about the Graphical user interface.
The Student will learn how to navigate through Mastercam.
The Student will learn to set the Toolbar States.
The Student will set the Grid.
The Student will learn about the Art Manager.
Art Training Tutorial Page|1

GETTING STARTED DOWNLOADING MASTERCAM ART FILES
STEP 1: DOWNLOADING MASTERCAM ART FILES
Resources - Download the files from www.emastercam.com/files/.
 Navigate to the X6 Art Training Tutorial section.

 Click on the Tutorial 3 Wireframe file to download it.
 Select the Save button.
 Save in a desired location such as your Desktop.
NOTE: Use the same steps to download the rest of the files.
To download the zip files please follow these instructions:
 If the computer being used does not have an application to unzip compressed files, a utility called Win Zip can
be downloaded from www.winzip.com.
 Download the necessary Tutorial files from this page.
 Save the zip file to your computer, in a location you can easily locate using Windows Explorer.
 Locate the downloaded zip file using Windows Explorer and double click on it. Win Zip should automatically
open, click on the Extract icon.
 Extract to a location you can find, example your desktop.
 Click on the Extract button.
 The geometry files will now be unzipped to your post directory.
Page|2 Art Training Tutorial

STARTING MASTERCAM GETTING STARTED
STEP 2: STARTING MASTERCAM

 Select Start.
 All Programs.
 Mastercam.
 Or select the Mastercam X6 short cut key on the Desktop.

GETTING STARTED GUI - GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE
STEP 3: GUI - GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE
Menu Allows you to select all the functions in Mastercam to create geometry and
toolpaths.
Toolbars Can be used instead of the menu to create geometry and toolpaths.
Ribbon Bar Allows you to enter the values and settings that define the entities that you are
currently creating or modifying.
Function prompt Prompts the user for info.
Status Bar Allows you to set the attributes (color, level, style, and width) and the View/
Plane and Z depth currently used.
Toolpaths/Solid Manager Lists the history of the toolpath operations and solids.
Origin Geometry origin from which the system measures the point coordinates in X, Y
and Z axes in the current plane.
Graphic Area Workspace area in Mastercam where the geometry displays.
MRU Toolbar Lists the most recently used functions.
Quick Mask Toolbar Lets you select all entities of a specific type.
Scale Shows you a scale of the object on the screen.

SETTING THE TOOLBAR STATES GETTING STARTED
View Port XYZ Axes Informs you which Graphics view, WCS and Toolplane/Construction plane you
are working in.
STEP 4: SETTING THE TOOLBAR STATES

 Before starting the geometry creation we should customize the toolbars to see the toolbars required to create
the geometry and machine a 2d part.
Settings
 Customize
 Choose the Open folder.
 Now select the mastercam-art.mtb file..
 Select the OK button to load the Art toolbars and exit the Open dialog box.

GETTING STARTED SETTING THE TOOLBAR STATES
 Select the OK button to exit the Customize dialob box.

 The Art toolbar will appear on your sceen.

SETTING THE GRID GETTING STARTED
STEP 5: SETTING THE GRID

 Before beginning to create geometry you will enable the Grid. This will show you where the origin is.
Settings
 Configuration.
 Select Screen from the configuration Topics as shown.
 Select the plus sign (+) beside the screen.
 In Grid Settings enable Visible Grid and change the Spacing to X = 0.25 and Y = 0.25.
 Set the Size to 1.0.
 Choose the OK button to exit.
 Select Yes to save the setting.
 The grid will appear on your screen as shown.

GETTING STARTED VIEWING THE ART DESIGN LIBRARY WORK AROUND
STEP 6:VIEWING THE ART DESIGN LIBRARY WORK AROUND
NOTE: Currently the Art Library viewing and placement functionality is broken, following is an instruction set
to work around this issue.
6.1 Convert a directory from MZX to MCX files.
This instruction set will convert one directory of your choice. The C-hook can convert multiple directories automatically
as well. Usually users are interested in one or two directories.
The current Art Library files are in a compressed MZX format they need to be changed to an MCX format so they can be
viewed by normal Mastercam File-Open command.
 With Mastercam open, select Alt-C this will open the C-hook library.
 Select MZX.dll as shown.

VIEWING THE ART DESIGN LIBRARY WORK AROUND GETTING STARTED
 The following dialog will appear. You will want to Read a directory from an existing directory.
 Select Read dir button, the next dialog ask for the destination of the source folder for the files you want to
convert.
 Select the files icon and path to the source directory you want to write the files from.

GETTING STARTED VIEWING THE ART DESIGN LIBRARY WORK AROUND
 Find C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Documents\shared Mcamx6\art\Art Library\animals-mythic\*.mcx

as shown.
 Select OK button to exit the Browse Directory dialog.

 Select OK button to exit the File 0ptions dialog.
 The new dialog now asks for the destination folder for the converted files.
NOTE: If you want to keep the converted files in a separate directory, you must make the new directory before
trying to path to it. One could put them in the same directory as they would be a different file type.
 Select the files icon and path to the directory where the converted files should be written. (this directory was
created in explorer previous to this procedure).

USING THE ART MANAGER GETTING STARTED
 C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Documents\shared Mcamx6\art\Art Library\Animals Mcx\*.mzx.
NOTE: All of the selected directory files will now be written into the new directory as MCX files and can be
selected using Mastercam File-Open commands.
This C-hook can also convert multiple directories all at once. If you want to convert the entire library make sure
you have a 1.5 GB free.
STEP 7: USING THE ART MANAGER
The Art Managers functions are to:
 View, edit, and delete Art model components in the Art Managers history tree.
 Modify the Art Model display in the graphics window by independently showing or hiding the Art Model or
geometry.
 Analyze points and view statistics on the Art model features.
 Change the resolution (number of points) in the Art model. Increasing the number of points makes the model
sharper, but also requires more time to regenerate.
 Change the Art surface grid density (number and thickness of lines that make up the Art base surface display).
 Regenerate and rebuild the Art model to reflect changes or deletions made to an Art base surface or its Art
surface operations.
 Unload or load the Art Model from the Mastercam database. When you unload the Art model, it removes the
Art model from RAM, freeing up memory.
 Undo or redo one or a series of Art operations.

GETTING STARTED USING THE ART MANAGER
 The Manager can be hidden to gain more space in the graphics area for creating geometry. Press Alt + O to hide
the manager and Alt + O to reopen the manager.

Art Training Tutorial Contents
Getting Started ........................................................................................................... 1
Tutorials
Tutorial #1 ............................................................................................................................................13
Tutorial #2 ............................................................................................................................................69
Tutorial #3 ..........................................................................................................................................101
Tutorial #4 ..........................................................................................................................................167
Tutorial #5 ..........................................................................................................................................223
General Notes ......................................................................................................... 289

TUTORIAL #1

TUTORIAL #11 OVERVIEW OF STEPS TAKEN TO CREATE THE FINAL PART:
OVERVIEW OF STEPS TAKEN TO CREATE THE FINAL PART:

From Graphics to CAD Model:
The student will open the spider graphic from the Mastercam Art
Library.
The student will create an ellipse and rectangle around the spider.
Create the Art Base Surface used to generate Toolpaths from:

Create a Art Base Surface, and Organic Surface.
The student will learn how to modify the appearance of the Oraganic
Surfaces.
Shift the Art Model below Z zero in preparation for Machining.
Create the necessary Toolpaths to machine the part:

The student will set up the stock size.
A Rectangular Spiral Roughing Toolpath to remove most of the
material.
A Rectangular Spiral Roughing Toolpath to finish the part.
Backplot and Verify the file:

The Backplot will be used to simulate a step by step process of the
tool’s movements.
The Verify will be used to watch a tool machine the part out of a solid
model.
Post Process the file to generate the G-code:

The Student will then post process the file to obtain an NC file
containing the necessary code for the machine.
This tutorial takes approximately one hour to complete.

SETTING UP THE GRAPHIC USER INTERFACE TUTORIAL #11
GEOMETRY CREATION
STEP 1: SETTING UP THE GRAPHIC USER INTERFACE
Please refer to the Getting Started section to set up the graphics user interface.
NOTE: The art toolbars should appear on your screen.
STEP 2:VIEWING THE ART DESIGN LIBRARY WORK AROUND
NOTE: Currently the Art Library viewing and placement functionality is broken, following is an instruction set
to work around this issue.
2.1 Convert a directory from MZX to MCX files.
This instruction set will convert one directory of your choice. The C-hook can convert multiple directories automatically as
well. Usually users are interested in one or two directories.
The current Art Library files are in a compressed MZX format they need to be changed to an MCX format so they can be
viewed by normal Mastercam File-Open command.
 With Mastercam open, select the Run User Application icon or, press Alt-C to open the
C-hook library.
 Select MZX.dll as shown.

TUTORIAL #11 VIEWING THE ART DESIGN LIBRARY WORK AROUND
 The following dialog will appear. You will want to Read a directory from an existing directory.
 Select Read dir button, the next dialog ask for the destination of the source folder for the files you want to
convert.
 Select the files icon and path to the source directory you want to write the files from.
 Find C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Documents\shared Mcamx6\art\Art Library\insect\ as shown.

 The new dialog now asks for the destination folder for the converted files.

VIEWING THE ART DESIGN LIBRARY WORK AROUND TUTORIAL #11
 Select the files icon and path to the directory where the converted files should be written.
 C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Documents\shared Mcamx6\art\Art Library\Insects\.

 Press Esc to exit the MZX.dll C-Hook.
NOTE: All of the selected directory files will now be written into the new directory as MCX files and can be
selected using Mastercam File-Open commands.
This C-Hook can also convert multiple directories all at once. If you want to convert the entire library make
sure you have a 1.5 GB free.

TUTORIAL #11 OPEN THE FILE FROM THE ART LIBRARY
STEP 3: OPEN THE FILE FROM THE ART LIBRARY
In this step you will open a file from the art library.
File
 Open.
 Find C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Documents\shared Mcamx6\art\Art Library\insect\ as shown.
 Pick the file "n01f25.mzx" as shown in Figure: 3.0.1.
Figure: 3.0.1

SCALE THE SPIDER TUTORIAL #11
 Select the OK button to continue.

 The geometry should look as shown.
STEP 4: SCALE THE SPIDER

Step Preview:
Xform
 Scale.
 Choose the All button.
 When the Select All dialog box appears select the All Entities buttons.
 Pick the End Selection button in the General Selection ribbon bar.

TUTORIAL #11 SCALE THE SPIDER
 When the Scale dialog box appears. Choose Move, ensure Factor is set and input a value of 3.0 as shown in
Figure: 4.0.1.
Figure: 4.0.1
 Select the OK button to exit the Scale Dialog box.

 Select Fit icon to see the entire geometry.
 Select the Clear Colors icon to see the geometry in the original color.
 The drawing will appear as shown.

CREATE AN ELLIPSE TUTORIAL #11
STEP 5: CREATE AN ELLIPSE

Step Preview:
Create
 Ellipse.
 Select the Origin as the base point as shown.

TUTORIAL #11 CREATE AN ELLIPSE
 Enter an X-Axis radius of 3.0"in the Ellipse dialog box as shown in Figure: 5.0.1.
 Enter a Y-Axis radius of 2.0" in the Ellipse dialog box.
Figure: 5.0.1
 Select the OK button to create the Ellipse.

 Your part will appear as shown.

CREATE A RECTANGLE TUTORIAL #11
STEP 6: CREATE A RECTANGLE
This rectangle will be used to create a rectangular surface which all the other surfaces are based from.
Step Preview:
Create
 Rectangle.
 Select the "Anchor to Center" icon.

 Select the Origin as a position of base point as shown in the previous step.
 Enter a width of 6.5" and a height of 4.5".
 Select the OK button to create the rectangle.


TUTORIAL #11 CREATE A NEW ART BASE SURFACE
STEP 7: CREATE A NEW ART BASE SURFACE

Step Preview:
Art
 New Art Base Surface.
 Rectangular.

CREATE A NEW ART BASE SURFACE TUTORIAL #11
 When the Rectangular dialog box appears select the button to pick the "Lower Left Point" as shown in
Figure: 7.0.1.
Figure: 7.0.1
 Pick the lower left corner as shown in Figure: 7.0.2.
Figure: 7.0.2
 Select this button to select the "Upper Right Point" as shown in Figure: 7.0.3.
Figure: 7.0.3

TUTORIAL #11 CREATE A NEW ART BASE SURFACE
 Pick the upper right corner as shown in Figure: 7.0.4.
Figure: 7.0.4
 The "Rectangular" parameters should look as shown in Figure: 7.0.5.
Figure: 7.0.5
NOTE: Resolution defines the number of grid points displayed per inch or millimeter. It controls how sharp the
model appears.
 Select the OK button to exit the Rectangular dialog box.

CREATE THE SURFACES OF THE SPIDER TUTORIAL #11
 Choose the Isometric Graphics View.
 Pick the Fit icon.

 Enter Alt + S to shade/unshade the part.
 The art base surface will appear as shown Figure: 7.0.6.
Figure: 7.0.6
NOTE: The outline of the insect might not appear on your screen. The surface will cover it.
STEP 8:CREATE THE SURFACES OF THE SPIDER
Organic Surface is a relief surface which is defined as a point grid. It will grow and scale in an organic way automatically.
The surface requires closed chains on which you apply cross sections.
Step Preview:

TUTORIAL #11 CREATE THE SURFACES OF THE SPIDER
 Enable Art Manager by selecting the Art tab.
 Select the Hide Art button to hide the base surface. This will allow you to select the geometry easier.
 Choose the Top graphics view.
Art
 Create Art Surface Operation.
 Organic.

 In the Chaining dialog box enable Polygon.
 Create a shape around the spider geometry as shown in Figure: 8.0.1.
Figure: 8.0.1
 To end the chain double click the left mouse button or press Enter on your keyboard.
 Pick the leg of the spider as shown to pick as an approximate starting point.
 Select the OK button to exit the Chaining dialog box.

 Make sure the settings are matching the Figure: 8.0.2.
Figure: 8.0.2
 Ensure Adjust Ridge is set to Normal and the Radius value is set to 0.125.
NOTE: Cross Selection allows you to:

1. Select a predefined cross section.
2. Pick an existing Mastercam geometry as the cross section.
3. Load saved cross sections.

4. Set the radius/height once you select the predefined cross section.
 Select the OK button to create the surfaces.

 Enter an Operation name of "Spider" as shown in Figure: 8.0.3.
Figure: 8.0.3
 Select the OK button.
 Pick the Hide Art Model button to show the surfaces.
 Select the Isometric graphics view.

 The surfaces will appear as shown.
 We will zoom in to check the spiders legs.
 Select the Zoom Window icon.

 [Specify zoom window]: Select Point A as shown in Figure: 8.0.4.

 [Specify zoom window]: Select Point B.
Figure: 8.0.4
 The surface will appear as shown Figure: 8.0.5.
NOTE: To soften the ridge we will modify the surface using the Art Manager.
Figure: 8.0.5

SOFTEN THE RIDGES TUTORIAL #11
STEP 9: SOFTEN THE RIDGES
We will change the parameter Adjust Ridge and Radius.
Step Preview:
 From the Art Operations Manager, double click on Parameters.

TUTORIAL #11 SOFTEN THE RIDGES
 Change the Radius value to 0.1 as shown in Figure: 9.0.1.

 In the Adjust Ridge field select the drop down arrow to select the shape.
 Select Parabola Low.
Figure: 9.0.1
 Select the OK button to exit the Organic surface parameters.

 The spider legs will now appear as shown.
 Select the Fit button.

CREATE THE ELLIPSE SURFACE TUTORIAL #11
 Pick the Top graphics view.
 Enable Hide Art Model.
STEP 10:CREATE THE ELLIPSE SURFACE

Step Preview:
Art
 Create Art Surface Operation.
 Organic.
 When the Chaining dialog box appears leave the default settings and pick the Ellipse as shown in
Figure: 10.0.1.
Figure: 10.0.1

TUTORIAL #11 CREATE THE ELLIPSE SURFACE
 Pick the Predefine cross section button as shown in Figure: 10.0.2.
Figure: 10.0.2
 From the list choose Convex Parabola as shown in Figure: 10.0.3.
Figure: 10.0.3

CREATE THE ELLIPSE SURFACE TUTORIAL #11
 Ensure the rest of the parameters appear as shown in Figure: 10.0.4.
Figure: 10.0.4
 Select the OK button to exit the Organic parameters screen.

 Enter the Operation name "Ellipse" as shown in Figure: 10.0.5.
Figure: 10.0.5

TUTORIAL #11 STRETCH THE ELLIPSE SURFACE TO LOOK LIKE A DOME
 Choose the Hide Art Model button to allow you to see the surfaces.
STEP 11:STRETCH THE ELLIPSE SURFACE TO LOOK LIKE A DOME

Step Preview:
 Double click on the Ellipse surface Parameters.

STRETCH THE ELLIPSE SURFACE TO LOOK LIKE A DOME TUTORIAL #11
 Select the double arrows to show the Advanced Parameters as shown in Figure: 11.0.1.
Figure: 11.0.1
 Change the Scale C-section to 1000.0 as shown in Figure: 11.0.2.
Figure: 11.0.2
 Select the OK button to exit the Advance Parameters - Organic dialog box.
 Select the OK button to exit the Organic Surface Parameters dialog box.

TUTORIAL #11 CREATE A TEXTURED SURFACE
 Pick the Top graphics view.
 Enable Hide Art Model.
 Select the Fit button if necessary.
STEP 12: CREATE A TEXTURED SURFACE

Step Preview:
Art
 Create Textures.
 Custom Textures.

CREATE A TEXTURED SURFACE TUTORIAL #11
 When the Chaining dialog box appears choose the Window chaining method.

 Create a window around the Ellipse as shown in Figure: 12.0.1.
Figure: 12.0.1
 Pick a point within the spider as an approximate starting point.

 Select the arrow next to the Texture Style field and select Grid Rotate as shown in
Figure: 12.0.2.
Figure: 12.0.2
 Select the Browse button as shown in Figure: 12.0.3.
Figure: 12.0.3

CREATE A TEXTURED SURFACE TUTORIAL #11
 From the list select the file Diamond.asl as shown in Figure: 12.0.4.
Figure: 12.0.4
 Choose the Open button.

 Leave the default settings in the Custom Texture dialog box and select the OK button to exit.
 An warning message might appear stating that the Art Model has passed the automatical Sorting triangle limit.
 Select Yes to increase the limit and continue.
 Enter the Operation name "Texture" as shown in Figure: 12.0.5.
Figure: 12.0.5
 Choose the OK button.
 Select the Hide Art Model icon to show the surfaces.

 Select the Isometric view.

 To modify the pattern double click on the Custom Texture surface Parameters.
 Change the Texture Style to Randomize as shown in Figure: 12.0.6.
Figure: 12.0.6
 Select the OK button to exit the Custom Texture parameters.

 An warning message might appear stating that the Art Model has passed the automatical Sorting triangle limit.
 Select Yes to increase the limit and continue.

SHIFT THE ART MODEL BELOW Z ZERO TUTORIAL #11
STEP 13: SHIFT THE ART MODEL BELOW Z ZERO

Step Preview:
 Change the Graphics View to Front.

 Your geometry will appear as shown.
NOTE: The geometry is above Z0.0. We want to have the top of the geometry at Z0.0.
 Choose the Isometric graphics view.
Art
 Xform Art Base Surface.
 Shift Art Model below Z Zero.

TUTORIAL #11 SHIFT THE ART MODEL BELOW Z ZERO
 When the Shift Art Model below Z Zero dialog box appears ensure Surface Top to is enabled as shown in
Figure: 13.0.1.
Figure: 13.0.1

 When Name the Operation dialog box appears choose the OK button without giving this operation a
name.
 Change the Graphics View to Front.

 Your geometry will appear as shown.
 Choose the Isometric graphics view.
 If necessary select the Fit button.

HIDE THE 2D GEOMETRY TUTORIAL #11
STEP 14: HIDE THE 2D GEOMETRY

Step Preview:
 Select Level from the Status Bar.
 In the number column choose 10. This will make Level 10 become the active level as shown in Figure: 14.0.1.
Figure: 14.0.1

TUTORIAL #11 HIDE THE 2D GEOMETRY
 Pick the All Off button. This will hide the entities in level 1 so they will not appear on the screen as shown in
Figure: 14.0.2.
Figure: 14.0.2
 Choose the OK button to exit the Level Manager.

File
 Save As.
 Pick a location to save the file.
 Enter the name "Tutorial #1".
 Select the OK button to save the file.

SELECT THE MACHINE AND SETUP THE STOCK TUTORIAL #11
STEP 15: SELECT THE MACHINE AND SETUP THE STOCK

Step Preview:
In Mastercam, you select a Machine Definition before creating any toolpaths. The Machine Definition is a model of your
machines capabilities and features. It acts like a template for setting up your machine. The machine definition ties together
three main components: the schematic model of your machine components, the control definition that models your
controls capabilities and the post processor that will generate the required machine code (G-Code).
NOTE: For the purpose of this tutorial, we will be using the Default milling machine.
NOTE: If a Machine Group is already selected in the Toolpaths Operations Manager, do not select a new one.
To replace the current machine:
Expend the Properties and select the Files tab.
Click on the Replace button and select the desired machine from the CNC_Machine folder.
 Select the Toolpaths tab in the Operation Manager.
Machine Type
 Mill.
 Default.
 Select the plus sign in front of Properties in the Toolpath Manager to expand the
Toolpath Group Properties.

TUTORIAL #11 SELECT THE MACHINE AND SETUP THE STOCK
 Select Tool Settings to set the tool parameters.
 Change the parameters to match the Figure: 15.0.1.
Figure: 15.0.1
Program # is used to enter a number if your

machine tool requires a number for a
program name.
Assign tool numbers sequentially allows
you to overwrite the tool number from the
library with the next available tool number.
(First operation tool number 1; Second
operation tool number 2, etc.)
Warn of duplicate tool numbers allows you
to get a warning if you enter two tools with
the same number.
Override defaults with modal values
enables the system to keep the values that
you enter.
Feed Calculation set From tool uses feed
rate, plunge rate, retract rate and spindle
speed from the tool definition.

SELECT THE MACHINE AND SETUP THE STOCK TUTORIAL #11
 Select the Stock Setup tab to define the stock.

 Change the parameters to match the Figure: 15.0.2.
Figure: 15.0.2
The Stock Origin value adjusts the position

of the stock, ensuring that you have equal
amounts of stock around the finish part.
Display option allows you to set the stock as
Wireframe and to fit the stock to the screen
(Fit Screen).
NOTE: The Stock model that you create can be displayed with the part geometry when viewing the file or the
toolpaths, during backplot, or while verifying toolpaths. In the graphics, the plus shows you were the stock
origin is. The default position is in the middle of the stock.
 Select the OK button to exit the Machine Group Properties.
 Select the Isometric view to see the stock.
 If necessary use the Fit icon to see the complete part.

TUTORIAL #11 CREATE A ROUGHING TOOLPATH
 The stock model will appear as shown.
NOTE: The Stock is not geometry and can not be selected.
 Select the Top Graphics view.
STEP 16: CREATE A ROUGHING TOOLPATH
A Roughing toolpath quickly removes the bulk of the material from the part. It generally uses a large tool to remove the
material.
Step Preview:

CREATE A ROUGHING TOOLPATH TUTORIAL #11
Art
 Toolpath Art Base Surface.

 If a prompt appears, Enter new NC name, select the OK button to accept the default.
16.1 Select a 1/4" Bull Endmill from the Library and set the tool parameters
 When the Toolpath parameters appear click on the Select library tool button as shown in Figure: 16.1.1.
Figure: 16.1.1

 In the Tool Selection dialog box click on Filter.
 Select the None button and then under Tool Types choose the Bull Endmill icon as shown in Figure: 16.1.2.
 Under tool diameter pick Equal and input a value of 0.25.
Figure: 16.1.2
 Pick the OK button to exit the Tool List Filter dialog box.
 In the Tool Selection dialog box you will now only see 1/4" Bull Endmills.

 Select the 1/4" Bull Endmill with a corner rad. of 0.03125 and then select the OK button to exit.
 Make all the necessary changes as shown in Figure: 16.1.3.
Figure: 16.1.3
The Feed rate, Plunge rate, Retract rate and Spindle speed are based on the systems default settings. You
may change these values as per your part material and tools.
In the Comment field, enter a comment to help identify the toolpath in the Toolpaths/Operations Manager
such as the one shown.

16.2 Art Base Surface Machining Parameters
 Select the Art Base Surface Machining Parameters tab and make the necessary changes as shown in
Figure: 16.2.1.
Figure: 16.2.1
Use clearance only at the start and end of operation: if this option is selected the cutter will rapid to the
clearance plane only at the start and end of the toolpath.

16.3 Art Base Surface Toolpath Parameters
 Select the Art Base Surface Toolpath Parameters tab. Ensure the Cutting method is set to Rectangular Spiral
Roughing and change the Stepover Percent to 50.0 as shown in Figure: 16.3.1.
 Make sure there is 0.02 Stock to leave in Z as well.
Figure: 16.3.1
Cutting Method: provides method for your application or design. When programming a toolpath, choose a
cutting method that will produce the most effective and efficient material removal process for your Art
model.
Rectangular Spiral Roughing: optimized for rouging but can be used to finish. Cuts a rectangular spiral
keeping the tool in constant contact with the material.
Stepover Percent: Sets the distance the cutter will overlap each pass of the cuter relative to the size of the
tool. The Stepover percent and Stepover distance values are associative; changing one value changes the
other.
Stock to leave in Z: Defines the amount of stock in the Z axis that remains on the part when the operation is
finished.
 Select the OK button to generate the toolpath.

TUTORIAL #11 BACKPLOT THE TOOLPATHS
STEP 17: BACKPLOT THE TOOLPATHS
Backplotting shows the path the tools take to cut the part. This display lets you spot errors in the program before you
machine the part. As you backplot toolpaths, Mastercam displays the current X, Y and Z coordinates in the lower left corner
of the screen.
 Make sure that the toolpaths are selected (signified by the green check mark on the folder icon). If the
operations are not selected choose the select all operations icon.
 Select the Backplot selected operations button.
 Make sure that you have the following buttons turned on (they will appear pushed down) to see the tool and
the rapid moves.
 Select the Isometric view from the toolbar to see the stock.
 You can adjust the speed of the backplot.

 You can step through the Backplot by using the Step forward or Step back buttons.
 Select the Play button in the VCR bar.

VERIFY THE TOOLPATH TUTORIAL #11
 The toolpath should look as shown.
 Select the OK button to exit Backplot.
STEP 18: VERIFY THE TOOLPATH
Verify allows you to use a solid model to simulate the machine of a part. The model created by verification represents the
surface finish, and shows collisions, if any exists.
 In the Operations Manager ensure the operations are selected. If the operations are not selected choose the
Select all operations icon.
 Choose the Verify Selected operations icon from the Operations manager.
 Set the Verify Speed by moving the slider bar.
 Select the Play button to start simulation.

TUTORIAL #11 COPY THE ROUGHING OPERATION
STEP 19: COPY THE ROUGHING OPERATION
In this step we will copy the roughing operation, select a different tool, change the parameters and create a finish
operation.
 Select the roughing operation, while holding the right mouse button down drag the operation down below the
insert arrow and release the right mouse button as shown in Figure: 19.0.1.
Figure: 19.0.1

CHANGE THE PARAMETERS IN THE COPIED OPERATION TUTORIAL #11
 Release the right mouse button and choose the option Copy After as shown in Figure: 19.0.2.
Figure: 19.0.2
 Now Move the insert arrow down one item.
STEP 20: CHANGE THE PARAMETERS IN THE COPIED OPERATION
In this step you will change the tool, and cut parameters to create a finish operation.
Step Preview:
 Click on Parameters under the second operation.

TUTORIAL #11 CHANGE THE PARAMETERS IN THE COPIED OPERATION
20.1 Select a 1/16" Ball Endmill from the Library and set the tool parameters
 When the Toolpath parameters appear click on the Select library tool button as shown in Figure: 20.1.1.
Figure: 20.1.1
 In the Tool Selection dialog box click on Filter as shown in Figure: 20.1.2.
Figure: 20.1.2

 Select the None button and then under Tool Types choose the Ball Endmill icon.
 Under tool diameter pick Equal and input a value of 0.0625 as shown in Figure: 20.1.3.
Figure: 20.1.3
 Pick the OK button to exit the Tool List Filter dialog box.
 In the Tool Selection dialog box you will now only see a 1/16" Ball Endmill.
 Select the 1/16" Ball Endmill and then pick the OK button to exit.

TUTORIAL #11 CHANGE THE PARAMETERS IN THE COPIED OPERATION
 Make all the necessary changes as shown in Figure: 20.1.4.
Figure: 20.1.4
NOTE: The Art Base Surface Machining Parameters are the same because we copied the 1st toolpath.

20.2 Art Base Surface Toolpath Parameters
 Select the Art Base Surface Toolpath Parameters tab. Ensure the Cutting method is set to Rectangular Spiral
Roughing and change the Stepover Percent to 20.0 as shown in Figure: 20.2.1.
 Make sure there is 0.0 Stock to leave in Z as well.
Figure: 20.2.1
 Select the OK button to set the parameters of the finish toolpath.
 Pick the Regenerate all dirty operations icon to generate the operation.
 To Backplot and Verify you toolpaths see page 48 and see page 49 to review these procedures.
NOTE: To select both operations, hold down the Shift key while select them.

TUTORIAL #11 POST THE FILE
 Your part will appear as shown once complete.
STEP 21: POST THE FILE

 Ensure all operations are selected, if they are not use the button Select all operations found in the Operation
Manager.
 Select the Post selected operations button from the Operations Manager.
 In the Post processing window make the necessary changes as shown in Figure: 21.0.1.
Figure: 21.0.1
NC File enabled allows you to keep the NC file and to assign the
same name as the MCX file.
Edit enabled allows you to automatically launch the default
editor.

SAVE THE UPDATED MCX FILE TUTORIAL #11
 Select the OK button to continue.

 Save the Tutorial #1 NC file.
 A window with both NC programs will appear as shown in Figure: 21.0.2.
Figure: 21.0.2
 To exit Mastercam Editor select the upper right corner red X.
STEP 22:SAVE THE UPDATED MCX FILE

TUTORIAL #11

INDEX
A G
About Graphics Views (Gview) ..................... 303 Graphic Area ..................................................... 4
Add ................................................................ 310 Graphical User Interface ................................... 4
Add Cut ......................................................... 310 H
Add Cut Trim ................................................. 310 Hide The 2D Geometry ................................... 47
Alternate Gray Scale ..................................... 316
I
Application Styles .......................................... 310
Art Base Surface ............................................ 304 Import Art Options ........................................ 312
Art Base Surface Toolpath Parameters ........... 57 Incline Surface .............................................. 306
Art Filter .......................................................... 76 Inverse .......................................................... 310
Art Manager .................................................. 318 L
Art Managers .................................................. 11 Linear black/white conversion ...................... 171
Art Mirror/Rotate ........................................... 74 Load/Store Cross sections ............................. 309
Art Model ...................................................... 304 M
Art Model Resolution .................................... 311 Machine Definition ......................................... 49
Art Resolution ................................................. 72 Mask ............................................................. 310
Axis Substitution ........................................... 281 Mathematical Luminescence ........................ 315
B Menu ................................................................. 4
Backplotting .................................................... 58 Merge A File From The Art Library ................ 229
Blend ............................................................. 310 Move to Origin .............................................. 181
Blend Edge .................................................... 310 MRU Toolbar ..................................................... 4
Border and Plane Surface ............................. 305 N
Bounding Box ................................................ 176
Negative ........................................................ 317
Browse Classic Design Library ....................... 318
C O
Organic Surface ....................................... 27, 304
Celtic Weave Surface .................................... 306
Origin ................................................................ 4
Create A New Art Base Surface ....................... 24
Create a Polar Line ........................................ 249 P
Create A Rectangle ......................................... 23 Parallel - Spiral Contained ............................... 87
Create A Textured Surface .............................. 40 Pattern on Contour ....................................... 307
Create An Art Swept Surface ........................ 255 Post processing ............................................... 66
Create the Text ............................................. 231 Post The File .................................................... 66
Cross Section ................................................. 309 Q
Custom Colour Weighting ............................. 316 Quick Mask Splines ....................................... 174
Custom texture ............................................. 308 Quick Mask Toolbar .......................................... 4
Cutting Method ............................................... 57 R
Cylinder Milling Spiral ................................... 283
Rast2Vec Converter ...................................... 171
D Raster to Vector ............................................ 170
Depth Cuts .................................................... 210 Rectangular Spiral Roughing ................... 57, 153
Downloading Mastercam Art Files .................... 2 Relief Surfaces .............................................. 304
E Ribbon Bar ........................................................ 4
Ellipse .............................................................. 21 Rotary Axis parameters ................................ 281
Ellipse Surface ............................................... 306 S
F Scale ............................................................ 4, 19
Filter Colors ................................................... 313 Scale C-section .............................................. 194
Function prompt ............................................... 4 Setting The Grid ................................................ 7

INDEX
Setting the Toolbar States ................................ 5 Toolbars ............................................................ 4

Shift The Art Model Below Z Zero ................... 45 Toolpath Art Base Surface .............................. 53
Spiral - Ellipse to Edge ................................... 219 Toolpaths/Solid Manager ................................. 4
Spline Corner Break ...................................... 314 Trace Art Model at Z Plane Slice ................... 308
Spline Parameters ......................................... 313 Translate ....................................................... 237
Standard Gray scale ...................................... 314 Trim and Break .............................................. 246
Status Bar .......................................................... 4 U
Stepover Percent ............................................ 57 Use clearance only at the start and end of
Stock Setup ..................................................... 51 operation ........................................................ 56
Stock to leave in Z ........................................... 57 Use Mastercam to pick Cross Section ........... 309
Sub ................................................................ 310 Use Selected Colors ...................................... 315
Sub Cut .......................................................... 310
V
Swept 2 Ended Surface ................................. 305
Swept Surface ............................................... 305 Verify ............................................................... 59
Switch to Advanced Parameters ................... 193 View Port XYZ Axes ........................................... 5
T W
Texture .......................................................... 307 Wrap Simulation ........................................... 267
Tool Settings ................................................... 50
Page |312 Art Training Tutorial

Thank you for previewing the
Mastercam X6 Art Training Tutorial.
We hope you like what you see. If you haven’t already, be sure to check out the Table of Contents included at
the beginning of this sample for a full listing of topics covered. If you found the first tutorial useful, we’re
certain the rest of the book will help you along your way to mastering Mastercam.
To thank you for considering our Mastercam Training Solutions,
>> We would like to extend a special offer to you.

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Art Training Tutorial

To order more books:

Contact your Mastercam dealer

The Student will learn how to download and unzip a file.

Art Training Tutorial Page|1

STEP 1: DOWNLOADING MASTERCAM ART FILES

Resources - Download the files from www.emastercam.com/files/.

 Navigate to the X6 Art Training Tutorial section.

To download the zip files please follow these instructions:

Page|2 Art Training Tutorial

STEP 2: STARTING MASTERCAM

 Or select the Mastercam X6 short cut key on the Desktop.

Art Training Tutorial Page|3

STEP 3: GUI - GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE

Page|4 Art Training Tutorial

STEP 4: SETTING THE TOOLBAR STATES

 Now select the mastercam-art.mtb file..

Art Training Tutorial Page|5

 Select the OK button to exit the Customize dialob box.

Page|6 Art Training Tutorial

STEP 5: SETTING THE GRID

Art Training Tutorial Page|7

STEP 6:VIEWING THE ART DESIGN LIBRARY WORK AROUND

6.1 Convert a directory from MZX to MCX files.

Page|8 Art Training Tutorial

Art Training Tutorial Page|9

 Find C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Documents\shared Mcamx6\art\Art Library\animals-mythic\*.mcx

 Select OK button to exit the Browse Directory dialog.

created in explorer previous to this procedure).

Page|10 Art Training Tutorial

 C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Documents\shared Mcamx6\art\Art Library\Animals Mcx\*.mzx.

STEP 7: USING THE ART MANAGER

The Art Managers functions are to:

Art Training Tutorial Page|11

Page|12 Art Training Tutorial

Getting Started ........................................................................................................... 1

General Notes ......................................................................................................... 289

Art Training Tutorial

Art Training Tutorial Page|3

OVERVIEW OF STEPS TAKEN TO CREATE THE FINAL PART:

Create the Art Base Surface used to generate Toolpaths from:

Create the necessary Toolpaths to machine the part:

Backplot and Verify the file:

Post Process the file to generate the G-code:

This tutorial takes approximately one hour to complete.

Page|4 Art Training Tutorial

STEP 1: SETTING UP THE GRAPHIC USER INTERFACE

NOTE: The art toolbars should appear on your screen.

STEP 2:VIEWING THE ART DESIGN LIBRARY WORK AROUND

2.1 Convert a directory from MZX to MCX files.

Art Training Tutorial Page|5

 Select OK button to exit the Browse Directory dialog.

 Select OK button to exit the File 0ptions dialog.

Page|6 Art Training Tutorial

 Select OK button to exit the Browse Directory dialog.

 Select OK button to exit the File 0ptions dialog.

Art Training Tutorial Page|7

STEP 3: OPEN THE FILE FROM THE ART LIBRARY

 Pick the file "n01f25.mzx" as shown in Figure: 3.0.1.

Page|8 Art Training Tutorial

 Select the OK button to continue.

STEP 4: SCALE THE SPIDER

Art Training Tutorial Page|9

 Select the OK button to exit the Scale Dialog box.