Electrodes

Electrodes
CimatronE 10.0 User Guide

CimatronE 10.0 Electrodes User Guide ⎪i
Table of Contents
Electrodes ...................................................................................................................................... 1
CimatronE Electrodes................................................................................................................. 1
Electrode Basics......................................................................................................................... 3
Electrode Basics...............................................................................................................3
Electrode Setup Wizard ................................................................................................... 3
Electrode Tree.................................................................................................................. 5
Working in Electrodes...............................................................................................................10
Working in Electrodes ....................................................................................................10
EDM Setup .....................................................................................................................11
Electrode Templates ......................................................................................................21
Renumber Electrodes ....................................................................................................26
Electrode Functions..................................................................................................................29
Electrode Functions .......................................................................................................29
Electrode Guide..............................................................................................................31
3D Trajectory..................................................................................................................32
Activate Assembly (Electrode) .......................................................................................43
Activate Electrode ..........................................................................................................44
Add Location ..................................................................................................................45
All Drawings ...................................................................................................................49
Loading (Applying) an Electrode Template....................................................................51
Assembly Drawing .........................................................................................................53
Automatic Contour .........................................................................................................55
Blank (Electrode)............................................................................................................56
Electrode Drawing..........................................................................................................74
Extensions......................................................................................................................76
Extract Electrode ............................................................................................................90
Holder (Electrode) ........................................................................................................101
Saving (Creating) an Electrode Template....................................................................102
Simulation (Electrode)..................................................................................................104
UCS (Electrode) ...........................................................................................................105
Index ...........................................................................................................................................109
CimatronE 10.0 Electrodes User Guide⎪1
Electrodes
CimatronE Electrodes
Using the CimatronE Electrode application, you can automate the electrode design process. Use
the Electrode application for burning faces selection, electrode design, management,
documentation and the manufacture of surface geometry.
Burning surfaces on the component
The Electrode application provides CAD, CAM and Drafting in a fully-associative single
database with the following capabilities:
• Fast and accurate methods to define burning faces;
• Manipulation of burning faces geometry to design the electrode;
• Complete automation of the electrode design process using templates;
• Automation of electrode documentation.
CimatronE 10.0 Electrodes User Guide ⎪2
What would you like to do?

Electrode Set-Up Create a new electrode assembly and a new electrode
Wizard folder. The Electrode Set-Up Wizard dialog is
displayed. This dialog enables you to define the part file
for which you wish to create an electrode (mold
component).
The Electrode Guide is then displayed. This is located
on the right side of the CimatronE window and enables
you to follow the logical steps of the electrode creation
process, from start to finish.
Extract Electrode Create a new electrode. This involves defining the
burning faces and an electrode area which will be the
basis for the blank.
Blank Create the blank for the electrode.
Electrode UCS Specify an Electrode UCS (User Coordinate System).
This UCS serves as the reference point for this
electrode in drawings and reports.
Holder Add an imported holder on top of the electrode blank.
Contour Create a single 2D or 3D contour (from the electrode
edges) by joining two or more curves.
Auto Contour Look for the open boundary of an electrode and
automatically create a contour on it. The contour can
later be used for the creation of extensions. The new
composite curve is also displayed in the Feature Tree.
Extension Create a set of extension faces between the burning
surfaces and the electrode base.
Apply Template Apply a previously created template to an existing
electrode. This automates many of the electrode
creation steps thereby considerably shortening the
electrode creation time.
Simulation Simulate the motion of electrodes.
Activate Assembly Activate the main assembly (when an electrode is
active).
Activate Electrode Activate an electrode.
Electrode Basics
Electrode Basics
The following links explain the Electrode Setup Wizard, Guide, Electrode Tree and the popup
menus.
Electrode Setup Wizard
Electrode Guide
Electrode Tree
Popup Menus
Electrode Setup Wizard

This wizard assists you in setting up a new Electrode file by prompting you to define the
appropriate parameters.
An Assembly file is then opened. The Assembly Name defined in the wizard is displayed in the
assembly tree on the left of the screen and the Electrode Guide is displayed on the right side of
the screen. The component file is added to the assembly (see below).
Upon completion of the Electrode Setup Wizard, continue with the Electrode creation using the
Electrode Guide to guide you through the logical order.
General Interaction
The Electrode Setup Wizard dialog is displayed. Define the
following parameters:
1.
Define the Component Part file in one of the
following ways:
• Open File : Open a CimatronE Part or

Assembly file (from the CimatronE Explorer)
for which you wish to create an electrode
(mold component).
• Import File : Import an external file
(PFM, IGES, SAT, etc.).
The Assembly Name and Folder Name for the
electrode are automatically created, based on the Name
Generator fields defined in the Electrode Preferences.
2. Set the working Assembly file name.
If the Create New Folder checkbox is turned on - a
new folder will be created under the folder which
holds the master file. The working file will be created inside that folder.
Set the new folder name. If the new folder is to be placed under a different folder - click
the browse button to select that parent folder.
3. Define the units of measurement for the file.
4. Click the Preferences button to change the Electrode Preferences, if required.

5. Press the appropriate confirmation button:
Cancel and exit the dialog.
OK, accept the data in the dialog and continue with the Electrode creation using the
Electrode Guide to guide you through the logical order.
The assembly file is opened with the Assembly Name displayed in the Assembly Tree. The
Assembly Name for the electrode is automatically created, based on the Name Generator fields
defined in the Electrode Preferences.
The component file is added to the assembly
In the CimatronE Explorer, these appear as follows (in the example below, an Electrode has been
added):
Electrode Tree
Electrode Tree
When an electrode has been extracted, the Electrode tab appears next to the Assembly Tree area.
This tab displays the Electrode Tree. (See the Assembly Tree for an explanation of the display
symbols that appear in the Electrode Tree). The Electrode assembly is also displayed in the
Assembly Tree.
Example of the tree structure before creating an electrode:
The Electrode Tree items consist of a Component, UCSs, Electrodes and Locations. The
Electrode assembly is also displayed in the Feature Tree.
Assembly Tree and Electrode Tree
Feature Tree
Electrode Tree:
Structure
Operations
Popup
Operations
Auto Hide
A number of operations can be performed from the Electrode Tree; these include performing
operations on multiple entities in the tree and using popup submenus.
Note: Double clicking a tree item (root, electrode or location) activates it.
Picking Multiple Entities

Operations on multiple entities in the tree can be performed. If the entities selected are of the
same level (locations, electrodes, etc.), the operations that can be performed are Hide, Show,
Create Electrode Drawing, Create Assembly Drawing, All Drawings and Simulation (all
appear under the popup menu). If the entities selected are not of the same level, only Hide, Show
and Simulation are available.
For example:
1. Select multiple electrodes from the Electrode Tree:
2. Select All Drawings from the popup submenu.

All drawings will be created for the selected electrodes.
Electrode Tree Structure

The structure of the Electrode Tree enables full control over the components and their display.
For each electrode location, the hide/show status, color and render mode (shade / transparency /
wireframe) characteristics can be set.
Electrode Tree Popup Operations

Electrode Tree popup submenus are displayed by right-clicking on an item in the appropriate
tree. The popup submenu displayed will depend upon the level of the item selected.
Component: This level represents the main assembly and all the mold components which are not
electrode files.
Activate Assembly, EDM Setup, Report, Simulation.
UCS: This level represents reference UCSs that were used during the electrode extraction. Each
UCS represents an orientation of the mold component on the EDM machine.
Extract Electrode, Add Electrode(see the Add Electrode explanation in Electrode Functions),
Hide(hide all the locations under the UCS ), Show(show all the locations under the UCS
), Electrode Drawing, Assembly Drawing, All Drawings, Rename(rename the UCS ), Report,
Simulation.
Electrode: This level represents electrodes which exist in the assembly.

EDM Setup, Edit(edit the creation of this electrode), Delete(delete all the locations of this
electrode), Activate(activate the first location of this electrode. After running the Extract
Electrode function from the Electrode Guide, activating the electrode displays the remaining
steps in the Electrode Guide), Open Component, Hide(hide all the locations of this electrode),
Show(show all the locations of this electrode), Electrode Drawing, Report, Simulation, Hide
Other, Ignore Update, Rename Component.
Location: This level represents the locations of each electrode. If an electrode appears more than
once in the assembly, it will have several locations.
EDM Setup, Add Location, Edit(edit the creation of this electrode), Delete(delete the electrode
location), Activate(activate the first location of this electrode. After running the Extract
Electrode function from the Electrode Guide, activating the electrode displays the remaining
steps in the Electrode Guide), Electrode Drawing, Rename(rename the location ), Report, 3D
Trajectory, Hide/Show Trajectory Lines(hide/show the trajectory lines - displayed when a 3D
Trajectory has been defined and the function exited), Delete Trajectory(delete a trajectory -
displayed when a 3D Trajectory has been defined and the function exited), Simulation, Hide
Other.
Electrode Report
The EDM Setup Report is displayed showing the Component, Electrode and
Location data. This report can be converted into a Microsoft Excel file format.
Use the EDM Setup dialog to set general parameters for Components, Electrodes and Locations
before creating a machine-readable file.
An example EDM Setup Report is shown below:
Working in Electrodes
Working in Electrodes
The following links provide additional information for working in the Electrode environment:
EDM Setup The EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining) Setup dialog enables
you to set general parameters for Components, Electrodes and
Locations before creating a machine-readable file.
Electrode CimatronE uses various types of templates to speed up the work-
Templates process and automate different operations. An Electrode Template
holds the electrode features and some of the parameters used to
design an electrode.
Renumber Renumber multiple electrodes in one operation.
Electrodes
EDM Setup
EDM Setup
The EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining) Setup dialog enables you to set general parameters
for Components, Electrodes and Locations before creating a machine-readable file.
The EDM Setup dialog initially displays the parameters relating to the item( Component,
Electrode and Location) right-clicked in the Electrode Tree, however, once the EDM Setup
dialog is displayed, you can also browse the EDM tree within the EDM Setup dialog to display
all the relevant parameters ( Component, Electrode and Location).
EDM Setup Interaction
EDM Setup Interaction

1. Select the EDM Machine type.
Standard parameters, or machine-specific parameters (such as AGIE and Mitsubishi) can
be defined. The type of Output File created depends on whether standard or machine-
specific parameters are defined. The dropdown list of available EDM machines depends on
the machine(s) selected in the CimatronE Control Panel > EDM Setup Machine
Registration.
The default list of If the Sodick machine is
available EDM machines selected in the CimatronE
is as follows: Control Panel, it appears in the
list of available EDM machines
instead of the Mitsubishi and
Makino machines:
2. Set the appropriate parameters ( Component, Electrode and Location). Each

EDM Machine type has its own specific set of parameters. Only the Standard parameters
are described in this Help.
3. Create the output file.
Click the Output button , set the file name and destination path to create an .erp file
containing a list of all the parameters. The .erp file is an ASCII file which can be edited
using any ASCII editor. To convert the .erp file to an EDM machine-readable version,
send the .erp file to your Cimatron Provider.
Note: If the Charmilles - DPC EDM machine is selected, an .xmlj is created. This file is
already EDM machine-readable and can be loaded directly to the Charmilles DP Control
interface.
If Open Output Files is selected, the ASCII .erp file is opened in Microsoft® Notepad®.
This file can then be edited if required.
If Multi Files is selected, multiple files can be created. Define the folder name and the
destination path for the output files.
Notes:
• If specific Customized Output executable files (.exe) are supplied by your
Cimatron Provider, an additional option is displayed to enable you to select the
type of output file to be produced. This output file is automatically opened in the
application supplied by your Provider, enabling you to easily update or add
parameter values before creating the machine-readable file.
Customize enables you to choose the type of output file. If a number of .exe files
exist, select the appropriate output file type from the dropdown menu.
• If supplied, these customized reports should be installed in the following location:
Cimatron\CimatronE\Program\EDM_Setup
4. Press the appropriate confirmation button:
Define the Electrode Offset Setting. This toggles the settings of the
Electrode Parameters between Standard and Legacy (prior to
CimatronE 9.0).
Save the current contents of the dialog as the default parameters.
Accept the changes and exit the current dialog.
Apply the changes and remain within the current dialog.
Cancel the changes and exit the current dialog.

EDM Setup: Component

The EDM Setup Component Parameters are as follows:
Component Name of the component as it appears in the Electrode Tree.

Name
Material Component material. Options are Steel, Aluminium, None.
Display the Material List. Select a material or enter a new
material and press OK .
Comment Enter a comment if required.

The Add/Remove Parameters button enables you to control the display of parameters on the
EDM Setup dialog.
EDM Setup: Electrode

The EDM Setup Electrode Parameters are as follows (for each operation, the parameter
displayed in the highlighted section depends on whether you have selected the Standard or
Legacy setting as defined in the Electrode Offset Setting):
Standard setting Legacy setting
Electrode Name The name of the electrode and its number as it appears in the
Electrode Tree.
Material Select the electrode Material from a dropdown list.
Press the button to display the Material Edit List. Select

a material or enter a new material and press OK .
Rough, Pre-Finish, The number of electrodes for each operation required for the
Finish, Polish: job.
Quantity
Orbiting Type Select the Orbiting Type from a dropdown list.
Press the button to display the Orbiting Type Edit List.

Select an orbiting type or enter a new material and press OK
.
Orbiting Size How much the electrode rotates.

Spark Gap The distance between the electrode and the workpiece when
discharges are occurring.
Additional Part The parameter (and interaction) displayed here, depends on
Offset / Maximum whether you have selected the Standard or Legacy setting as
Undersize defined in the Electrode Offset Setting.
Material Select the specific electrode Material from a dropdown list.
Press the button to display the Material Edit List. Select

a material or enter a new material and press OK .
EDM Setup dialog.
Electrode Offset Setting

The Electrode Offset Setting enables you to toggle the setting of the Electrode Parameters
between Standard and Legacy (prior to CimatronE 9.0). The difference between these settings is
as follows:
Standard The Additional Part Offset parameter
setting is displayed.
This parameter defines the difference
between the actual electrode and the
designed electrode. (The actual
electrode is geometrically smaller than
the designed electrode.) In essence, this
parameter defines how much material
should be left after the burning, for the
next electrode operation.
This parameter is used by the CMM
measuring function which, while
inspecting an electrode, considers the
burning parameters.
When switching from Legacy to
Standard, the Additional Part Offset
= 0.
Example:
If Quantity = 0, all fields are grayed

out except the Additional Part Offset.
Example:
Legacy The Maximum Undersize parameter is

setting displayed.
This parameter is system calculated
(Spark Gap + Orbit Size) and defines
the maximum undersize of the
electrode.
If Quantity = 0, all fields are grayed
out.
Example:
To switch from one setting to the other:
1. Press the Electrode Offset Setting button (at the bottom of the dialog).
The following dialog is displayed:
2. Select the required electrode offset setting.

This becomes your default setting and is displayed the next time you enter the EDM Setup.
EDM Setup: Location

The EDM Setup Location Parameters are as follows:
Location Name Name of the component, its number and location number as it
appears in the Electrode Tree.
Burn Depth: Uppermost burning surface point.
Top Z
Bottom Z Lowest burning surface point.
Delta Total burning depth.
Burn UCS Start coordinates of the Burn UCS origin.
Origin:
Start
End End coordinates of the Burn UCS origin.
EDM Setup dialog.
The diagram below shows the parameters used in this dialog.
EDM Setup: Add/Remove Parameters

Add and/or remove parameters to/from the EDM Setup dialog.
To add/remove parameters:
1. Press the Add/Remove Parameters button at the bottom of the Component, Electrode
and Location EDM Setup dialogs.
2. For each required set of parameters press the Enable radio button and enter the relevant
parameter values and press OK . For example:
The parameters and their default values are displayed in the EDM Setup dialog.
Electrode Templates
Electrode Templates
CimatronE uses various types of templates to speed up the work-process and automate different
operations. An Electrode Template holds the electrode features and some of the parameters used
to design an electrode. You can use it to save time by creating the entire geometry of an electrode
(once the electrode burning faces were defined) automatically.
Using Electrode Templates
Loading (Applying) an Electrode Template
Saving (Creating) an Electrode Template
Note: All user-defined templates are stored in the same location.
Using Electrode Templates

You can use Electrode Templates to build several templates for typical electrodes (typical means
that each type has the same set of features, not the same type of geometry). You can create a
several templates holding only the Blanks (including advanced blank features such as marking or
stepped blanks) and Holders and other templates holding the entire geometry including all
extensions and an Electrode UCS.
Saving a template will keep all the parameters and features used in a specific electrode. Loading
and using the template will apply those features to a new or existing electrode part.

When a template is applied, it creates a set of new features.
An electrode template can be used in two ways:
Extracting a new electrode.
Completing an existing electrode.
When Apply Template is selected, the following dialog is displayed:
This dialog displays a list of the Electrode Templates you've saved and the picture that was saved
with them.
Note: Each view in the template must have a unique name.
1. Set the options in the dialog:
Save in: Select the directory from where to load the template. The directory tree on the left
of the dialog can also be used to select the appropriate directory.
Files of type: Select the template type.
File name: Select the file name of the template to load. Template file details displayed in
the middle of the dialog can also be used to select the appropriate file.
2. Press OK to execute the template and create the relevant features.
Note: If there are extension features in the template, the system will automatically find the
contour for them.
Extracting a new electrode

When creating a new electrode, the Apply Template and Change Template buttons are
displayed.
Apply Template: This button determines that a template will be used. The button toggles
to No Template.
Change Template: Selecting this button displays the Load Template dialog. This button is
only visible if the Apply Template button is on. If you leave the cursor on the Change
Template button for two seconds, it will show a tooltip with the name of the template
currently in use.
contour for them.
Completing an existing electrode

Templates can be applied on existing electrodes in two ways:
1. Select Apply Template from the Electrode Guide or select Electrode > Apply Template
from the menu bar. The Load Template dialog is displayed.
contour for them.
2. If the contour is not picked properly automatically, using templates from within the
Extension function allows you to define the contour first.
From within the Extension function, select the Apply Template and Change Template
buttons, as mentioned above (applying templates when creating a new electrode).

Any electrode part can be saved as an Electrode Template. The system will save all the
electrode features - such as Extensions, Electrode UCS, Blank and Electrode Holder. The features
are saved so that they can be used for any geometry. This means that all the important parameters
which represent decisions made by you are kept, but any parameter which has to be flexible and
adjusted to the selected geometry is not saved. For example, the height of the Base will be saved,
but not the length and width of it.
The system will ask you to specify a name for the new Electrode Template and then save it. Note
that the picture presented when you are saving the Electrode Template will be saved alongside it
and will be presented when you load the template - so it is recommended to make sure that the
electrode shows what you want to see when you load that template, before you save the template.
Note: This function is only available when an electrode file is active.

Save In: Select the directory of the saved template. The default directory is
Cimatron\CimatronE\Data\Templates. The directory tree on the left of the dialog can
also be used to select the appropriate directory.
Files of types: The default electrode template file type is .etp.
File name: Enter the template file name.
Comment: Enter a comment to describe the template.
Template file details are displayed in the middle of the dialog.
2. Press OK to save the template.
Renumber Electrodes
Renumber multiple electrodes in one operation.
This function is similar to the Electrode Name function in the Preferences (Preferences >
Electrode > Name Generator > Electrode Name), however, the Renumber Electrodes function
can renumber multiple electrodes in one operation.
The Renumber Electrodes dialog is displayed:
Set the parameters:

Index From the dropdown list, set the number of digits to be added to the
Digits electrode name. An example result is automatically displayed in the
Last Number and Example fields - see below.
Start Renumber the electrodes starting with the value in this field.
Number When selecting multiple electrodes for renumbering, the electrodes are
numbered according to the order in which they were selected in the
Electrode Tree. This means that the first selected electrode will be
renumbered according to the Start Number, the second and
subsequent selected electrodes will be renumbered in increments based
on the Step value.
Step Renumber the electrodes in increments based on the Step value.

Last This field is for reference only and displays the last number that will
Number be given to a renumbered electrode. This value is based on the number
of electrodes selected, the Start Number and the Step. The number of
digits displayed is based on the Index Digits definition.
Example:
In this example 2 electrodes were
selected:
• The last number is based on the
start number 1 in steps of 1
(hence Last Number = 2).
• The number of digits displayed
(in the Last Number and
Example fields) is 3 (based on
the Index Digits value).
In this example 2 electrodes were

selected:
• The last number is based on the
start number 2 in steps of 3
(hence Last Number = 5).
• The number of digits displayed
(in the Last Number and
Example fields) is 4 (based on
the Index Digits value).
Prefix Define a prefix for the electrode name.

An example result is automatically displayed in the Example field -
see below.
Suffix Define a suffix for the electrode name.
An example result is automatically displayed in the Example field -
see below.
Include Select this checkbox to add the main assembly name to the electrode
Main name.
Assembly An example result is automatically displayed in the Example field -
Name see below.
Example This field is for reference only and displays the structure and content
of the electrode name based on your definitions. The number of digits
displayed is based on the Index Digits definition.
Example:
In this example the

electrode name consists
of the:
• prefix
• electrode number
- see note below.
In this example the

electrode name consists
of the:
• main assembly
name
• prefix
• electrode number
- see note below.
• suffix
Note: In the Example field, the electrode number is based on the Start
Number value and the Index Digits value.
Consider Select this checkbox to ensure that subsequently extracted electrodes

these will be numbered and named according to the settings in this dialog.
changes For example, if the checkbox is selected, the next extracted electrode
while will be numbered based on the Last Number + the increment in the
extracting Step field.
new
electrodes
Press OK to rename all selected electrodes at once.
The electrodes will be renumbered based on the Start Number and in increments as defined by
the Step value.
If any of the newly assigned names already exists as an electrode name, an appropriate message
is displayed.
Electrode Functions
Electrode Functions
The following Electrode functions appear under the Electrode menu and/or the Electrode Guide
(in addition, the EDM Setup function is also listed below).
3D Trajectory Create a 3D trajectory for an electrode. Use the Electrodes
Simulation to simulate the electrode movement along this
trajectory.
Activate Activate the main assembly (when an electrode is active).
Assembly
Activate Activate an electrode.
Electrode
Add Add an electrode to the assembly. Select the electrode from
Electrode the CimatronE Explorer. The electrode may be one that was
created in the assembly, or it could be an electrode that was
created elsewhere.
The interaction is identical to the Add Component function in
the Assembly application.
If the electrode does not exist within the UCS, this adds an
electrode and a location in the tree.
If the electrode already exists in the UCS, this adds another
location to the existing electrode.
Add Location Copy an existing electrode and place it on other burn areas.
All Drawings Create an assembly drawing and one or more electrode
(Electrode) drawings for the locations under the UCS in the
Electrode Tree. This function is available only when the
assembly is active.
Apply Load (apply) an electrode template to an existing electrode.
Template This function is available when an electrode file is active. See
Electrode Templates.
Assembly Create an assembly drawing as defined in the Electrode
Drawing Preferences. This function is available only when the
assembly is active. An assembly drawing is created for
selected locations under the UCS in the Electrode Tree.
Automatic Look for the open boundary of an electrode and automatically
Contour create a contour on it. The contour can later be used for the
creation of extensions. The new composite curve is also
displayed in the Feature Tree.
Blank Create the blank for the electrode.
(Electrode) This function is available when an electrode file is active.
Composite Create a single 2D or 3D contour (from the electrode edges)
by joining two or more curves. The contour can later be used
for the creation of extensions. The new composite curve is

also displayed in the Feature Tree.
This function is available when an electrode file is active.
Electrode Create an electrode drawing as defined in the Electrode
Drawing Preferences. This function is available only when the
assembly is active. An electrode drawing is created for each
selected location under the UCS in the Electrode Tree.
It is also possible to create an electrode drawing via the NC
Report. This creates a Standard NC Report which displays
four views of the electrode, including dimensions.
EDM Setup The EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining) Setup dialog
enables you to set general parameters for Components,
Electrodes and Locations before creating a machine-
readable file.
Extensions Create a set of extension faces between the burning surfaces
and the electrode base.
This function is available when an electrode file is active.
Extract Create a new electrode. This involves defining the burning
Electrode faces and an electrode area which will be the basis for the
blank.
The Extract Electrode function is available only when an
assembly is active. Activate the electrode in the electrode tree
to display the remaining steps in the Electrode Guide.
Holder Add an imported holder on top of the electrode Blank.
Save as Save (create) an electrode template. Any electrode part can be

Template saved as an Electrode Template. The system will save all the
electrode features - such as Extensions, Electrode UCS, Blank
and Electrode Holder.
This function is available when an electrode file is active. See
Electrode Templates.
Simulation Simulate the motion of electrodes.
(Electrode)
UCS Specify a Burning UCS (User Coordinate System). This UCS
(Electrode) serves as the reference point for this electrode in drawings and
reports.
This function is available when an electrode file is active and
a blank has been created.
Note: All operations are also accessible either through the menu bar and / or toolbar icons.
Electrode Guide
The Electrode Guide, located on the right side of the CimatronE window, lists the Electrode
functions in a logical order to guide you through the electrode creation process, from start to
finish.
All the Electrode functions can either be accessed from the menu bar (under the Electrode menu)
or from the Electrode Guide.
Notes:
• See Navigating the Guide Bars.
• The Guide Bars can be customized as required.
• See the Electrode Functions for a description of the various functions in this guide.
The Electrode Guide steps are organized as follows (see the Electrode Functions for a
description of the various functions in this guide):
Electrode Guide
See the Electrode Functions.

The following options are displayed.
Showing or Hiding the Electrode Guide

To show the Electrode Guide, click the Access button at the top of this topic to display the
Access button dropdown text.
To hide the Electrode Guide, do the opposite of the Access button dropdown text.
3D Trajectory
3D Trajectory
Create a 3D trajectory for an electrode. Use the Electrodes Simulation to simulate the electrode
movement along this trajectory.
General Interaction
The following is the Feature Guide for 3D Trajectory.
Remember: You can
open the Feature
Guide at any time on
the graphic display
area by right-clicking.
Required Step 1 : Pick the electrode whose trajectory is to be defined.

Required Step 2 : Define the trajectory steps for the electrode.
3D Trajectory : Options and Results

Create a 3D trajectory for an electrode. Use the Electrodes Simulation to simulate the electrode
movement along this trajectory.
Required Step 1
Pick the electrode whose trajectory is to be defined.
Required Step 2
Define the trajectory steps for the electrode. This trajectory is composed of steps of either linear
movement or rotation around the electrode axis.
The picked electrode is highlighted, the 3D Trajectory Manager appears and the following
parameters are displayed:
Linear Movement and Rotation are toggle parameters
Linear Toggle between Linear Movement and Rotation.

Movement /
Rotation
Delta Set the delta distance of the current (Linear Movement) trajectory
step. This distance can also be set by clicking on the arrow head or
shaft and dragging the electrode to the required distance (you can
drag in the arrow direction only).
Z Axis Set the rotation angle of the current (Rotation) trajectory step.
Reset Reset the movement to Delta = 0 or Angle = 0 degrees. The OK
option is disabled.
OK Accept the defined trajectory step. The trajectory step data is
entered into the 3D Trajectory Manager. This option is available
only if movement (Linear or Rotation) has been defined.
Linear Movement
Set a linear trajectory step(s) for the electrode. This is the default trajectory option and displays a
directional arrow.
To set a linear trajectory:

1. Set the direction using the arrow. Click on the arrow origin to open the direction menu.
The default direction is the +Z of the electrode.
2. Set the delta distance of the current trajectory step.
3. Press OK to accept the defined trajectory step. The trajectory step data is entered into the
3D Trajectory Manager.
Rotation
Set a rotation trajectory step(s) for the electrode.
To set a rotation trajectory:

1. Set the rotation angle. The rotation axis is around the Z axis of the electrode UCS.
2. Press OK to accept the defined trajectory step. The trajectory step data is entered into the
3D Trajectory Manager.
To edit the defined trajectory, use the 3D Trajectory Manager.

Press OK or Apply in the Feature Guide to complete the function. Once the trajectory has
been defined and the function exited, the following occur:
1. The defined trajectory is displayed as follows:
Linear Movement steps are
displayed using a dashed line.
Rotation steps are displayed
by small points.
2. Additional options become available in the Location popup submenu:

These options enable you

to Show or Hide the
trajectory lines, or to
Delete the trajectory.
3. The trajectory points and parameters are displayed in the EDM Setup for Standard
machines. They appear in the report of the specific Location, as follows:
4. The trajectory points and parameters are displayed in the EDM Setup Output File, as
follows:
[COMPONENT]
NAME = Part for copy Electrode-EL
FILE_NAME =
MATERIAL = Aluminium
UNITS = MM
NOTE =
[ELECTRODE_0001:01]
NAME = Part for copy Electrode-EL-001:Loc1
FILE_NAME =
UNITS = MM
COMMENT =
BLANK_TYPE = Rectangular
BLANK_ORIGIN_X = 0.0000
BLANK_ORIGIN_Y = 62.4995
BLANK_ORIGIN_Z = 45.0000
BLANK_HEIGHT = 41.6127
...
[TRAJECTORY]
STEP_1_ANGLE =30
STEP_2_LINEAR_START=3.3, 78, 56.78
STEP_2_LINEAR_END= 99.6, 77, 66
BURN_UCS_ROTATION = 0.0000
QUANT_RO = 4
ORBIT_TYPE_RO = 3-D ORBITING
ORBIT_VALUE_RO = 0.0021
SPARK_GAP_RO = 0.0001
ORBIT_OFFSET_RO = 0.0022
MATERIAL_RO =
QUANT_PF = 3
ORBIT_TYPE_PF = 3-D ORBITING
ORBIT_VALUE_PF = 0.0000
...
5. The trajectory points and parameters are displayed in the EDM Setup Report, as follows:
3D Trajectory Manager
The 3D Trajectory Manager stores the trajectory steps that have been confirmed (OK'd). The
combined Linear and Rotation steps make up the complete electrode trajectory.
Each trajectory step can either be edited or deleted.

1. Either double-click the value to be changed and enter the new value directly into the 3D
Trajectory Manager, or right-click the appropriate step and select Edit Step or Delete
Step.
In both cases, the step in the 3D Trajectory Manager and the actual trajectory movement
in the display area are highlighted.
In the example below, step 2 is selected for editing.
Edit Step
The trajectory is rolled back to the selected step and subsequent steps are not shown.
The parameters of the selected trajectory step
are displayed. The Linear Movement / Rotate
option is grayed out as it is irrelevant at this
stage.
Note the highlighted trajectory.
1. Edit the Delta or Angle value and press OK.

The 3D Trajectory Manager and graphics area are updated with the new values.
The original step 2 value and After the Edit, the new step 2 value
trajectory display. and the updated trajectory display.
Delete Step
The entry in the 3D Trajectory Manager is deleted and the following step is renumbered.
1. Delete the selected step.
The 3D Trajectory Manager and graphics area are updated with the new values.
The original step 2 value and trajectory After the Delete, the new step 2
display. value and the updated trajectory
display.
Activate Assembly (Electrode)

Activate the main assembly (when an electrode is active).
Example:
1. An electrode is active.
2. Press the Activate Assembly button. The main assembly is now active.
Activate Electrode
Activate an electrode by picking it in the display area.
Example:
1. The main assembly is active.
2. Press the Activate Electrode button and pick the electrode to activate.
3. The electrode is now active.
Add Location
Add Location
Copy an existing electrode and place it on other burn areas.
General Interaction
The following is the Feature Guide for Add Location.
Remember: You can
open the Feature
the graphic display
Required Step 1 : Pick three points from the burn area of the electrode to be copied. These
three points define a UCS.
Optional Step 1 : Pick the points to define the target UCS or pick a target UCS.
Add Location: Options and Results

Copy an existing electrode and place it on other burn areas.
Existing electrode. Existing electrode copied to target location.
Required Step 1
Pick three points from the burn area of the electrode to be copied.
1. Pick the three points to define a UCS. The points can only be picked from the electrode to
be copied.
2. Press exit(middle mouse button) when finished.
Required Step 2
Pick the points to define the target UCS or pick a target UCS.
1. Set the displayed Same Component / Different Component toggle option.
2. Pick the points to define the target UCS or pick a target UCS.
These points are geometric points and can only be picked from "main" parts only.
Alternatively, the target UCS must belong to the main part.
Pick the target points. When the third point or a UCS is picked,
the copied electrode is displayed in gray.
Press OK in the Feature Guide to complete the function.
When completed, the additional electrode is added to the Electrode Tree according to the Same
Component / Different Component toggle option used:
Same Component: Different Component:
The additional electrode is added as a The additional electrode is added as a
"Location" in the Electrode Tree. new electrode with one new "Location" in
the Electrode Tree.
When completed, an Add operation appears in the Feature Tree as follows:

All Drawings
Create an assembly drawing and one or more electrode drawings for the locations under the
UCS in the Electrode Tree. This function is available only when the assembly is active.
To create all drawings:
1. Activate the electrode assembly.
2. Select the appropriate position in the Electrode Tree - see below.
3. Invoke(for instructions on how to invoke this tool, press the Access button at the top of
this Help topic) the Create Electrode Drawing function.
Depending on the number of electrode locations and your selection point in the Electrode
Tree, the assembly drawing may contain one or more electrode locations in the drawing,
and one or more electrode drawings are created - see below.
Selection Point in the Electrode Tree

The drawings created by running this function depend on the number of electrode locations and
your selection point in the Electrode Tree:
1. If you select the UCS in the Electrode Tree and then run the function, the result is as
follows:
• a single assembly drawing is created showing all the electrode locations under
the UCS.
• an electrode drawing is created for each electrode location under the UCS.
For example:
Note: The prefix of the assembly and electrode drawing file names consists of the names
of the assembly and electrode(s) respectively.
2. If you select an Electrode or Electrode Location in the Electrode Tree and then run
the function:
• the assembly drawing shows only that electrode location .
• one electrode drawing is created for that electrode location .
For example:
Note: If an assembly or electrode drawing file with the same name already exists. the
drawing name is appended with the suffix #<n> (where <n> is the number of the files with
the same name).
3. You can also select multiple Electrodes or Electrode Locations in the Electrode Tree
and then run the function. In this case:
• the assembly drawing shows each of the items selected.
• an electrode drawing is created for each item selected.
For example:

When a template is applied, it creates a set of new features.
An electrode template can be used in two ways:
Extracting a new electrode.
Completing an existing electrode.
When Apply Template is selected, the following dialog is displayed:
This dialog displays a list of the Electrode Templates you've saved and the picture that was saved
with them.
Save in: Select the directory from where to load the template. The directory tree on the left
of the dialog can also be used to select the appropriate directory.
Files of type: Select the template type.
File name: Select the file name of the template to load. Template file details displayed in
the middle of the dialog can also be used to select the appropriate file.
2. Press OK to execute the template and create the relevant features.
contour for them.
Extracting a new electrode

When creating a new electrode, the Apply Template and Change Template buttons are
displayed.
Apply Template: This button determines that a template will be used. The button toggles
to No Template.
Change Template: Selecting this button displays the Load Template dialog. This button is
only visible if the Apply Template button is on. If you leave the cursor on the Change
Template button for two seconds, it will show a tooltip with the name of the template
currently in use.
contour for them.
Completing an existing electrode

Templates can be applied on existing electrodes in two ways:
1. Select Apply Template from the Electrode Guide or select Electrode > Apply Template
from the menu bar. The Load Template dialog is displayed.
contour for them.
2. If the contour is not picked properly automatically, using templates from within the
Extension function allows you to define the contour first.
From within the Extension function, select the Apply Template and Change Template
buttons, as mentioned above (applying templates when creating a new electrode).
Assembly Drawing
Create an assembly drawing as defined in the Electrode Preferences. This function is available
only when the assembly is active. An assembly drawing is created for selected locations under
the UCS in the Electrode Tree.
An example of an assembly drawing:
To create electrode drawings:

Tree, the assembly drawing may contain a single or multiple electrode locations in the
drawing - see below.

1. If you select the UCS in the Electrode Tree and then run the function, the assembly
drawing is created showing all the electrode locations under the UCS. For example:
Note: The prefix of the assembly drawing file name consists of the name of the assembly.
the function, the assembly drawing shows only that electrode location . For example:
Note: If an assembly drawing file with the same name already exists. the drawing name is
appended with the suffix #<n> (where <n> is the number of the files with the same name).
and then run the function. In this case the assembly drawing shows each of the items
selected. For example:
Automatic Contour
Look for the open boundary of an electrode and automatically create a contour on it. The contour
can later be used for the creation of extensions. The new composite curve is also displayed in the
Feature Tree.
Examples
Before running Auto Contour.
After running Auto Contour.

Notice the new composite curve in the display area and also in the Feature Tree.
Blank (Electrode)
Blank (Electrode)
Create the blank for the electrode.
Notes:
• Only one Blank feature per electrode can be created. If the Blank function is invoked after
a Blank has been created, the function will be invoked in edit mode.
• This function is only available when an electrode file is active.
General Interaction
The following is the Feature Guide for Blank.
Remember: You can
open the Feature
the graphic display
area by right-
clicking.
Required Step 1 : Select the options and set the parameters for the blank.
Optional Step 1 : Center To Selection.
Optional Step 2 : Fit To Selection.
Optional Step 3 : Mark the base of the blank.
Blank (Electrode) : Options and Results

Note: Only one Blank feature per electrode can be created. If the Blank function is invoked after
a Blank has been created, the function will be invoked in edit mode.
Required Step 1
Set the appropriate parameters:
1. Define the shape, size and position of the blank.

The shape of the blank can be Rectangular or Cylindrical.
The size and position of the blank can be set either dynamically, by entering numeric
values or by using a reference line.
2. Use the toggle button Free Blank Size / Use Blank Library to define how to set the size
of the blank.
Free Define the size of the blank by entering the X and Y Size.
Blank
Size
Use The size of the blank is defined from the Blank Library and the X
Blank and Y Size parameters are grayed out. The Blank Library is stored
Library under the following folder:
Cimatron\CimatronE\Data\templates.
To select another set of parameters from the Blank Library:
a. Press Edit Parameters to open the Library.
Example:
b. Select a different size and press OK.

Example:
A new catalog size is selected. The X and Y Size of
the blank are updated.
The library table can be edited to change the values in the table.
3. Set the height parameters for the blank.
Base: Select the type of Base for the Blank. The Base is the part of the blank that is not
milled. The following Base types are available:
Wireframe / No Blank: Toggle button to create the blank with or without a wireframe
body ( example).
Rectangular Base Circular Base
Wireframe No Blank Wireframe No Blank
Notes:
• When a Blank is created with a wireframe body, the wireframe body can
be created as a single body or as three separate bodies. This is defined in
the Tools > Preferences > Electrode > Colors ( example).
Single wireframe body - the Separate wireframe bodies -
blank is created as a single the blank is created as three
body and has one color. separate bodies and has a
color defined for each body.
•
• Irrespective of whether the blank is created with or without a wireframe
body, the information is saved as a parameter of the blank into templates
and is considered in the execution of the templates.
• Points are created on the bottom face of the blank and also on the top and
bottom face of the blank base ( example). These points indicate the center
of the blank and enable you to pick an origin point for the Burn UCS. The
points are created irrespective of whether the blank is created with or
without a wireframe body or whether the base is Rectangular or
Cylindrical.
Blank Height: The height of the entire blank.

Base Height: The height of the base. The default of the base height is set in the Electrode
Preferences.
Clearance: The clearance is the distance between the highest point under the blank and the
bottom plane of the Base. The default of the clearance is set in the Electrode Preferences.
Allowance: The allowance is the distance between the lowest point under the blank and the
bottom plane of the blank. The default of the allowance is set in the Electrode Preferences.
Free Value: The free value is the value that is dependent and changes when other values
are modified. One of the following values must always be free: Base Height, Clearance,
Allowance or Blank Height. The free value will be grayed out and cannot be changed
manually. The default for the free value is set in the Electrode Preferences.
Optional Step 1
Center the blank over the burn face. The size of the blank remains the same.
Note: The electrode blank can also be Re-Centered, at a later time, to all the electrode faces (burn
faces, extension and manually created faces).
Before: After:
Optional Step 2
Fit the blank over the burn face with a predefined offset. The size of the offset around the
attached face is defined in the Electrode Preferences.
Note: The electrode blank can also be Re-Fit, at a later time, to all the electrode faces (burn
faces, extension and manually created faces).
Before: After:
Optional Step 3
Mark the Base. The base is often marked by a chamfer or a round on one of its edges. The mark
helps the machine operator to position the electrode correctly on the EDM machine.
The mark options depend on the shape of the blank.

Rectangular blanks
The mark options are Round, Chamfer or None. For Round or Chamfer, define the size of
the mark.
The mark can be applied to the corner of the base which is closest to the reference UCS, or
it can be applied to a predefined corner. The rule for the marking is set in the Electrode
Preferences.
Circular blanks
The mark options are Mark Base or None. For Mark Base, the marking options are:
Height - The height of the mark.
Depth - the distance from the exterior wall of the base to the wall of the mark.
Angle - Angle of the plane of the mark from the active UCS (the default is 0).
Press exit(middle mouse button) when finished. Press OK in the Feature Guide to complete
the function.
When completed, the Blank will appear in the Feature Tree as follows:
Blank (Electrode) Base Types

Select the type of Base for the Blank. The Base is the part of the blank that is not milled. The
following Base types are available:
Base Stepped Base Shaped Base None
Base
Select a regular Base for the Blank. Define the Blank parameters.
Example.
Stepped Base
Select a Stepped Base for the Blank. This is a Base with a small
step which makes the measurement of the electrode NC offset
easier. As this step can be easily measured, it can be use as a
verification tool to ensure that the correct offset was used.
Two additional Blank parameters are displayed - Step Height and Step Offset.
Step Height: Set the height of the step ( example).
Step Offset: Set the size of the offset (step) ( example).
Note: The default values for the parameters mentioned above are defined in the preferences under
Electrode Preferences > Base > Stepped Base
Shaped Base
Select a Shaped Base for the Blank. This is a Base that follows the
geometry adjacent to the electrode burning area.
For example, thin and long electrodes, which lie on a face with a
steep slope are fragile and hard to machine. The solution for this
problem is to create a base that will follow the geometry adjacent
to the electrode burning area. This way the electrode "leg" would
be as short as possible and would also create a more robust
electrode which would be safer to machine.
An additional Blank parameter is displayed - Z Shift.

Z Shift: Set the size of the Base - offset from geometry adjacent to the electrode burning
area ( example).
Note: The default values for the parameter mentioned above is defined in the preferences under
Electrode Preferences > Base > Shaped Base
None
Create a Blank without a Base. Define the Blank parameters.
Example.
Re-Center / Re-Fit Blank (Electrode)

Re-Center or Re-Fit electrode Blanks to all the electrode faces (burn faces, extensions and
manually created faces). The Re-Center and Re-Fit operations can be run at anytime, irrespective
of the creation sequence of electrode features.
Often, the Blank feature is created immediately after the burn faces are extracted. This means that
the Blank is Centered or Fit just to the burn faces. Extensions and other faces are created later
and are not taken into consideration. The Re-Center and Re-Fit operations update the Blank
feature, considering any new geometry created.
The Re-Center and Re-Fit

operations can be run at any time.
In the picture on the left, an
extension has already been
created. The two operations will
update the Blank taking into
account all the electrode faces.
Notes:
• In a Re-Center operation, the X,Y locations of the Blank are the only parameters that may
be changed.
• In a Re-Fit operation, the length, width and X.Y locations of the Blank may all be
changed.
• In both the Re-Center and Re-Fit operations, the following parameters will not change:
- Angle (for rotated Blanks)
- Step parameters (for Stepped Blanks)
- Marking parameters (for Marked Blanks)
- Z Shift parameters (for Shaped Blanks).
• After a Re-Center or a Re-Fit operation, the Burn UCS (if present) will change its X,Y
location accordingly. However, the Rotation angle (if defined) will not change.
Re-Center
Re-Center the Blank taking into account all electrodes faces (burn faces, extensions and manually
created faces). The Blank is centered without changing its X,Y dimensions, in an operation that is
similar to the Center to Selection option within the Blank function (in the Center option,
however, the Blank is centered only to the burn faces).
Before:
After:
The Blank, after the Re-Center operation, is now centered in relation to the electrode
faces.
Re-Fit
Re-Fit the Blank, with a predefined offset, taking into account all electrodes faces (burn faces,
extensions and manually created faces). The size of the offset around all the electrode faces is
defined in the Electrode Preferences. This means that the Blank is centered while changing its
X,Y dimensions, in an operation that is similar to the Fit to Selection option within the Blank
function (in the Fit option, however, the Blank is centered only to the burn faces).
Before:
After:
The Blank, after the Re-Fit operation.
Blank (Electrode) : Editing

Editing the Blank by the Feature Guide
Select Blank from the Electrode Guide or right-click on the Blank in the Feature Tree. In the
popup submenu that appears, select Edit Feature.
The Feature Guide will appear,
automatically open to Required
Step 1. You now return to the
same situation in which you
created the blank.
Make modifications in the current
step, and / or click the button for
other steps you want to modify.
Press OK in the Feature Guide
to complete the function.
See also:
Re-Center
Re-Fit
Editing a Feature
Deleting a Feature
Electrode Drawing
Create an electrode drawing as defined in the Electrode Preferences. This function is available
only when the assembly is active. An electrode drawing is created for each selected location
under the UCS in the Electrode Tree.
Note: It is also possible to create an electrode drawing via the NC Report. This creates a Standard
NC Report which displays four views of the electrode, including dimensions.
An example of an electrode drawing:
To create electrode drawings:

Tree, one or more electrode drawings are created - see below.

1. If you select the UCS in the Electrode Tree and then run the function, an electrode
drawing is created for each electrode location under the UCS. For example:
Note: The prefix of the electrode drawing file name(s) consists of the name of the
electrode(s).
the function, a single electrode drawing is created for that electrode location . For
example:
Note: If an electrode drawing file with the same name already exists. the drawing name is
appended with the suffix #<n> (where <n> is the number of the files with the same name).
and then run the function. In this case an electrode drawing is created for each item
selected. For example:
Extensions
Extensions
Create a set of extension faces between the burning surfaces and the electrode base.
Tip: When one extension is completed, it creates the contour for the next extension. It is,
therefore, recommended to use Apply rather than OK when moving from one extension
to the next, until the last extension has been created.
General Interaction
The following is the Feature Guide for Extensions.
Remember: You can
open the Feature
the graphic display
area by right-
clicking.
Required Step 1 : Select a single 2D or 3D contour. The contour should lie on the edges of
the faces which should be extended.
Required Step 2 : Select extension options and set parameters. Extension options include
Tangent, Direction and 2 Directions.
Optional Step 1 : Create steps in the extension.
Optional Step 2 : Create a draft angle in the extension.
Optional Step 3 : Create a filler face.
Creating an Electrode Extension - Detailed Interaction of All Options

Tangent: Create faces that are tangent to the faces of the electrode.
Direction: Create faces that are extended in a specified direction.
2 Directions: Create a tangent extension in two directions.
Tangent Extension
Required Step 2
Create faces that are tangent to the faces of the electrode. In general, the first extension in any set
of extensions should be a tangent extension. The faces are extended tangentially by a certain
value or to a plane. Toggle the Offset/Shift button for the best geometrical extension method for
the specific face.
A direction is always set for these extensions. This direction should point to the general direction
of the extension (usually the + Z direction). The direction is represented by an arrow.
The length options are:
• Length
• Minimum Distance
• To Plane
• To Point
• To Blank
Length
Create a tangential extension to a specified length.
Specify the length.
Minimum Distance
Create a tangential extension to a minimum distance, in the extension direction, from the furthest
point on the contour.
Specify the minimum distance.
To Plane
Create a tangential extension to a specified plane.
Indicate the plane to which the faces must extend.
To Point
Create a tangential extension to a specified point.
Indicate the point to which the faces must extend.
To Blank
Create a tangential extension up to the faces of the blank.
Note: If the extension faces exceed the boundaries of the blank, they will be trimmed.
Optional Step 3
If you wish to add a filler face, proceed to Optional Step 3.
Press OK or Apply in the Feature Guide to complete the function.

When completed, the Extension will appear in the Feature Tree as follows:
Direction Extension
Required Step 2
Create faces that are extended in a specified direction.
A direction is always set for these extensions. This direction should point to the direction of the
extension (usually the + Z direction). The direction is represented by an arrow.
The length options are:
• Length
• Minimum Direction
• To Plane
• To Point
• To Blank
Length
Create a directional extension to a specified length.
Specify the length.
Minimum Distance
Create a directional extension to a minimum distance, in the extension direction, from the furthest
point on the contour.
Specify the minimum distance.
To Plane
Create a directional extension to a specified plane.
Indicate the plane to which the faces must extend.
To Point
Create a directional extension to a specified point.
Indicate the point to which the faces must extend.
To Blank
Create a directional extension up to the faces of the blank.
Note: If the extension faces exceed the boundaries of the blank, they will be trimmed.
Optional Step 1
If you wish to add a step, proceed to Optional Step 1.
Optional Step 2
If you wish to add a draft angle to the extension, proceed to Optional Step 2.
Optional Step 3

2 Directions Extension
Required Step 2
Create a tangent extension out of a complex 3D contour that cannot be extended in one direction
only. The faces will be tangentially extended and trimmed by 2 planes (normal to 2 defined
directions respectively).
These directions should point in the directions of the extensions. The directions are represented
by arrows.
Create a tangential extension to a specified length.
Specify the minimum distance in both the directions.
Toggle the Offset/Shift button for the best geometrical extension method for the specific face.
Optional Step 3
Note: The filler face will be applied only to the second direction.

Extensions: Step
Optional Step 1
Create steps before a direction extension. If all the curves in the contour lie on the same plane, a
step may be created. This is a surface between the defined contour and an offset of it.
The available options are Simple Step, Step and None.
Define the offset (step) value.
Note: If the contour is open, the direction of the offset may be determined using the Flip button.
Simple Step
Create a Simple Step.
If the Blank is rectangular, the Simple Step is a surface between a bounding box formed around
the defined contour and an offset of it.
If the Blank is cylindrical, the Simple Step is a surface between a bounding circle formed around
the defined contour and an offset of it.
Wireframe example
Step
Create a Step. This is a surface between the defined contour and an offset of it.
Wireframe example
None
Do not create a Step. Continue the previous Extension.
Wireframe example
Extensions: Draft Angle

Optional Step 2
Apply a draft angle to the extension faces, when creating a Direction extension. The draft angle
tilts the faces from the extension direction.
The available options are Draft Angle and None.
Define the draft angle.
Note: If the contour is open, the direction of the draft may be determined using the Flip button.
Extensions: Filler Face

Optional Step 3
Create a filler face. This creates a face which bounds the open edges of the extension faces.
The available options are Filler Face and None.
Extensions : Editing
Editing the Extension by the Feature Guide
Right-click on the Extension in the Feature Tree. In the popup submenu that appears, select Edit
Feature.
The Feature Guide will appear, automatically open to Required Step 2. You now return to the
same situation in which you defined the extension.
Make modifications in the current step, and / or click the button for other steps you want to
modify. Press OK in the Feature Guide to complete the function.
See also:
Editing a Feature
Deleting a Feature
Extract Electrode
Extract Electrode
Create a new electrode. This involves defining an electrode area which will be the basis for the
blank.
Note: This function is only available when the assembly is active.
General Interaction
The following is the Feature Guide for Extract Electrode.
Remember: You can
open the Feature
the graphic display
Required Step 1 : Pick a UCS.

Required Step 2 : Define an Electrode Area.
Optional Step 1 : Center To Selection.
Optional Step 2 : Fit To Selection.
Extract Electrode : Options and Results
Required Step 1
Select a reference UCS.
This UCS is very important as it is the reference point on the component for the dimensions,
locations and reports for all the electrodes. It is also used to set the component orientation for the
EDM process. The Z direction of the reference UCS sets the plane that will be used for the
electrode area.
The reference UCS is automatically picked by the system. To change the UCS, return to this
stage and pick a different UCS.
Note: If a UCS is picked on the electrode tree when the Extract Electrode function is invoked,
that UCS will be used as the reference UCS.
Required Step 2
Define an electrode area:
1. Create either a rectangular or cylindrical electrode area.
Rectangular electrode area Cylindrical electrode area
2. Edit the electrode area (either dynamically, by entering numeric values or by using a
reference line) to position it approximately where you wish to create the electrode. Any
face that is completely included within the electrode, will be colored yellow. Such a face
is considered a candidate for attachment to the electrode.
3. Attach the yellow face to the electrode area.
Creating the Electrode Area

When you are creating the electrode area, the part is displayed in mixed mode. The
Electrode Area parameters are displayed.
1. Pick a place where you wish to create the electrode and define the parameters.
Note: Edit the electrode area (either dynamically or by entering numeric

values) to position it approximately where you wish to create the electrode.
Rectangular: Define the shape of the blank; Rectangular or Cylindrical.
Clearance: Define the Clearance height. The clearance is the distance between the
highest point under the blank and the bottom plane of the Base. The default of the
clearance is set in the Electrode Preferences.
Trim On / Off: Use Trim On when creating the electrode area to specify which
faces are to be attached to the extracted electrode.
Apply Template: Apply a predefined electrode template to the electrode while it is
being created or select No Template.
Change Template: Select a different electrode template.
2. The electrode area is created.
To change the shape of the electrode area, toggle the Rectangular parameter to
Cylindrical
Using Trim On / Offset = 0 when creating the electrode area

Use Trim On when creating the electrode area to specify which faces are to be attached to
the extracted electrode. When Trim On is selected, an additional option Blank Offset
(with a default value of 0) is displayed.
For example:
1. Pick the three faces (see below) you wish to be part of the electrode and attach
them.
2. Those parts of the faces which intersect the blank preview are then trimmed and
attached to the extracted electrode.
The finished electrode will look like this:

Using Trim On / Offset > 0 when creating the electrode area

Use Trim On with a defined Blank Offset when creating the electrode area to create a
blank with a slight offset from the original definition of the Burning Area. This allows you
to define the Burning Area according to the trim size, without a direct impact on the size of
the blank. It also creates a blank which is bigger in all directions in the offset value.
Blank Offset defined as 0: Result:
Blank Offset defined as > 0: Result:

Editing the Electrode Area Dynamically

To dynamically edit the electrode area, pick one of the locations listed below and start
dragging immediately.
Move
1. Pick an edge.
2. Drag the electrode area to another position.
Re-Size
1. Pick a mid-point.
2. Drag to re-size the electrode area, without
changing its position.
1. Pick a corner.
2. Drag to re-size the electrode area.
Rotate
1. Press SHIFT and pick a corner.
2. Drag to rotate the electrode area.
Editing the Electrode Area by Entering Numeric Values

To edit the electrode area by entering numeric values:
1. Press the expansion arrow to display numeric sizing and positioning

parameters. These parameters vary, depending upon whether the electrode area is
defined as Rectangular or Cylindrical.
2. Adjust the parameter values as required.

Note: To rotate a rectangular Electrode Area, either enter an angle value manually,
or select a reference line to automatically define the angle value.
Editing the Rotation Angle using a Reference Line

For Rectangular electrode areas, you can rotate the Electrode Area by selecting a
Reference Line to automatically define the rotation Angle. In the examples below, the
Angle value is initially 0.
1. Press the Reference Line parameter button.

2. Pick a reference line to define the rotation angle.
The electrode area is rotated to the angle defined by the reference line and the Angle
parameter is automatically filled with the new angle value.
Note: The rotation angle value may also be changed by entering numeric values
manually.
Attaching Faces
Any face that is completely included within the electrode, will be colored yellow. Such a
face is considered a candidate for attachment to the electrode. Attached faces are displayed
in green.
To attach a yellow face to the electrode area, press the middle mouse button.
The attached face is displayed in green.
To unselect a yellow face, use standard CimatronE tools (Pick, Unselect All and Unselect
by Box).
To detach green faces, pick the face (you can also use Pick by Box).
The electrode direction represents the motion direction of the electrode. This direction is
used as the default direction for all extensions. By default, the direction is set to the + Z
direction of the reference UCS. This is represented by an arrow next to the reference UCS
and may be edited to suit the motion direction of the electrode.
Note: Flipping or changing the electrode direction does not effect the orientation of the
mold component.
Optional Step 1
Center the electrode area over the attached face. The size of the electrode area remains the same.
Before: After:
Optional Step 2
Fit the electrode area to the attached face with a predefined offset. The size of the offset around
the attached face is defined in the Electrode Preferences.
Before: After:

A UCS is created in the middle of the burn faces.
When completed, the Electrode will appear in the Assembly Tree, Electrode Tree and the
Feature Tree as follows:
Assembly Tree and Feature Tree Electrode Tree
Note: By default, when the electrode is created, it is Fixed onto the defined location and
cannot be moved. This is shown in the Assembly Tree.
To move the electrode you need to Float it first. (The fix/float status cannot be changed if the
electrode is active).
Extract Electrode : Editing

You can edit:
• the Electrode by the Feature Guide
• the geometry
Editing the Electrode by the Feature Guide

Right-click on the Electrode name in the Electrode Tree. In the popup menu that appears, select
Edit.
The Feature Guide is displayed, automatically open to Required Step 2. You are now in the
electrode creation stage where you can edit any of the parameters.
Geometry Changes
If changes to the geometry have occurred, the Electrode in the Electrode Tree receives the Needs
Update icon. Activate this electrode to display the Electrode feature in the Feature Tree (also
with the Needs Update icon).
In this case, either edit the electrode (as
described above) or right-click on the
Electrode (in either tree) and select
Ignore Update.
Holder (Electrode)
Holder (Electrode)
Add an imported holder on top of the electrode Blank.
Note: The holder can either be selected from a holder file or from a catalog of holders (for
example, from the EROWA catalog).
General Interaction
The following is the Feature Guide for Holder.
Remember: You can
open the Feature
the graphic display
Required Step 1 : Select the holder file from the CimatronE Explorer.
Optional Step 1 : Move the holder a delta distance.
Optional Step 2 : Rotate the holder.
Holder (Electrode) : Options and Results

Add an imported holder on top of the electrode Blank.
Required Step 1
Select the holder from the CimatronE Explorer. The Holder is automatically placed on the
Electrode UCS.
Note: The holder can either be selected from a holder file or from a catalog of holders (for
example, from the EROWA catalog).
Optional Step 1
Move the holder a delta distance from the Electrode UCS.
Optional Step 2
Rotate the holder around the Z axis.
Press OK in the Feature Guide to complete the function.

Any electrode part can be saved as an Electrode Template. The system will save all the
electrode features - such as Extensions, Electrode UCS, Blank and Electrode Holder. The features
are saved so that they can be used for any geometry. This means that all the important parameters
which represent decisions made by you are kept, but any parameter which has to be flexible and
adjusted to the selected geometry is not saved. For example, the height of the Base will be saved,
but not the length and width of it.
The system will ask you to specify a name for the new Electrode Template and then save it. Note
that the picture presented when you are saving the Electrode Template will be saved alongside it
and will be presented when you load the template - so it is recommended to make sure that the
electrode shows what you want to see when you load that template, before you save the template.

Save In: Select the directory of the saved template. The default directory is
Cimatron\CimatronE\Data\Templates. The directory tree on the left of the dialog can
also be used to select the appropriate directory.
Files of types: The default electrode template file type is .etp.
File name: Enter the template file name.
Comment: Enter a comment to describe the template.
Template file details are displayed in the middle of the dialog.
2. Press OK to save the template.
Simulation (Electrode)
Simulation (Electrode)
Simulate the motion of electrodes.
General Interaction
The following is the Feature Guide for Electrodes Simulation.
Remember: You can
open the Feature
the graphic display
Required Step 1 : Select the electrodes to be included in the simulation.
Simulation (Electrode) : Options and Results

Simulate the motion of electrodes.
The simulation slider is displayed.
1. Mark those electrodes to be included in the simulation.

2. Move the slider to simulate the electrode movement.
UCS (Electrode)
UCS (Electrode)
Specify an Electrode UCS (User Coordinate System). This UCS serves as the reference point for
this electrode in drawings and reports.
Notes:
• The Electrode UCS function can only be used after a Blank has been created, and an
electrode file is active.
• Only one Electrode UCS feature per electrode can be created. If the Electrode UCS
function is invoked after an Electrode UCS has been created, the function will be invoked
in edit mode.
General Interaction
The following is the Feature Guide for Electrode UCS.
Remember: You can
open the Feature
the graphic display
Required Step 1 : Pick a point to be defined as the Electrode UCS origin.

Optional Step 1 : Rotate the UCS.
Optional Step 2 : Delta from picked point.
UCS (Electrode) : Options and Results

Note: Only one Electrode UCS feature per electrode can be created. If the Electrode UCS
function is invoked after an Electrode UCS has been created, the function will be invoked in edit
mode.
Required Step 1
Pick an origin point for the Electrode UCS. Any point may be picked. This UCS is used as the
electrode reference point for reports.
Once the point has been picked, the UCS is displayed. A Flip option rotates the UCS 180 degrees
around the X axis.
1 2
3 4
Optional Step 1
Rotate the UCS, if required, around the Z axis.
The available options are CS Rotation and None.
Optional Step 2
Move the UCS, if required, by a delta value.
The available options are Delta Values and None.
Press exit(middle mouse button) when finished. Press OK in the Feature Guide to complete
the function.
When completed, the Electrode UCS will appear in the Feature Tree as follows:
UCS (Electrode) : Editing

Editing the Electrode UCS by the Feature Guide
Select Burn UCS from the Electrode Guide or right-click on the Burn UCS feature in the Feature
Tree. In the popup submenu that appears, select Edit Feature.
The Feature Guide will appear, automatically open to Required Step 1. You now return to the
same situation in which you defined the electrode area.
See also:
Editing a Feature
Deleting a Feature
CimatronE 10.0 Electrodes User Guide
⎪109
Index
2 Direction Extension ...............................81
2 Directions Extension..............................84 Draft Angle in Extension.......................89
3 EDM Setup ............................................11
3D Trajectory ............................................32 Electrode Functions ...............................29
Manager .................................................40 Electrode Guide .....................................31
A Electrode Holder..................................101
Activate Assembly ....................................43 Electrode Tree..........................................5
Activate Electrode.....................................44 Electrode Tree Popup Submenus.............7
Add Location ............................................45 Electrode UCS .....................................105
All Drawings (Electrode)..........................49 Electrodes Simulation..........................104
Assembly Drawing (Electrode).................53 Extension ...............................................76
B Extract Electrode ...................................90
Blank .........................................................56 Extract Electrode Editing.....................100
Options and Results ...............................58 Filler Face in Extension.........................89
Re-Center...............................................69 Multi-Pick................................................5
Re-Fit .....................................................69 Report ......................................................7
D Simple Step in Extension.......................85
Direction Extension ..................................81 Step in Extension ...................................85
Draft Angle in Extension ..........................89 Tangent Extension .................................77
E Template ................................................21
EDM Setup................................................11 Wizard .....................................................3
Add/Remove Parameters .......................20 Electrode Basics..........................................3
EDM Setup - Component..........................14 Electrode Drawing ....................................74
EDM Setup - Electrode.............................15 Electrode EDM Setup ...............................11
EDM Setup - Location ..............................19 Electrode Functions ..................................29
EDM Setup Report......................................7 Electrode Guide ........................................31
Electrode .....................................................1 Electrode Holder .....................................101
2 Directions Extension...........................84 Electrode Report .........................................7
Activate Assembly.................................43 Electrode Tree.............................................5
Activate Electrode .................................44 Multi-Pick................................................5
Add Location .........................................45 Structure...................................................6
CimatronE 10.0 Electrodes User
Guide ⎪110
Electrode UCS ........................................105 Re-Fit Blank..............................................69

Electrode Wizard ........................................3 Renumber Electrodes ................................26
Electrodes..................................................31 S
Electrode Holder..................................101 Simple Step in Extension ..........................85
Electrodes Simulation..........................104 Step in Extension ......................................85
Electrodes Simulation .............................104 T
Extension - Electrode................................76 Tangent Extension ....................................77
Extract Electrode.......................................90 Templates..................................................21
Extract Electrode Editing........................100 Electrode Templates ..............................21
F W
Filler Face in Extension ............................89 Wizard
M Electrode..................................................3
Multi-Pick ...................................................5 Working in Electrodes ..............................10
R
Re-Center Blank........................................69

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CimatronE 10.0 User Guide

Burning surfaces on the component

What would you like to do?

Electrode Setup Wizard

• Open File : Open a CimatronE Part or

4. Click the Preferences button to change the Electrode Preferences, if required.

Picking Multiple Entities

2. Select All Drawings from the popup submenu.

Electrode Tree Structure

Electrode Tree Popup Operations

Electrode: This level represents electrodes which exist in the assembly.

EDM Setup Interaction

2. Set the appropriate parameters ( Component, Electrode and Location). Each

Accept the changes and exit the current dialog.

Apply the changes and remain within the current dialog.

Cancel the changes and exit the current dialog.

EDM Setup: Component

Component Name of the component as it appears in the Electrode Tree.

Comment Enter a comment if required.

EDM Setup: Electrode

Press the button to display the Material Edit List. Select

Press the button to display the Orbiting Type Edit List.

Orbiting Size How much the electrode rotates.

Press the button to display the Material Edit List. Select

Electrode Offset Setting

If Quantity = 0, all fields are grayed

Legacy The Maximum Undersize parameter is

To switch from one setting to the other:

2. Select the required electrode offset setting.

EDM Setup: Location

EDM Setup: Add/Remove Parameters

The following dialog is displayed:

Note: All user-defined templates are stored in the same location.

Using Electrode Templates

Loading (Applying) an Electrode Template

Extracting a new electrode

Completing an existing electrode

Saving (Creating) an Electrode Template

The following dialog is displayed:

Note: Each view in the template must have a unique name.

Set the parameters:

Step Renumber the electrodes in increments based on the Step value.

In this example 2 electrodes were

Prefix Define a prefix for the electrode name.

In this example the

In this example the

Consider Select this checkbox to ensure that subsequently extracted electrodes

for the creation of extensions. The new composite curve is

Save as Save (create) an electrode template. Any electrode part can be

See the Electrode Functions.

Showing or Hiding the Electrode Guide

Required Step 1 : Pick the electrode whose trajectory is to be defined.

3D Trajectory : Options and Results

Linear Toggle between Linear Movement and Rotation.

To set a linear trajectory:

To set a rotation trajectory:

To edit the defined trajectory, use the 3D Trajectory Manager.

2. Additional options become available in the Location popup submenu:

These options enable you

Each trajectory step can either be edited or deleted.

1. Edit the Delta or Angle value and press OK.

Activate Assembly (Electrode)

3. The electrode is now active.