TNG Release Notes 502
TNG Release Notes 502
TNG Release Notes 502
Contents
ESPRIT TNG 5.2 adds native support for turret-mounted tailstock, handling the tailstock like a tool assembly and using the
link engine for positioning the tailstock. It simplifies the programming and dedicated keywords simplify the post
implementation.
Tailstock definition
When generating tailstock GDML file, the root node of the component defines the default mounting position on the station
adapter. A workpiece adapter usually at the tip of the tailstock specifies the control point for the tailstock.
Tailstock setup
Select the station to host the tailstock then right click / Add tailstock or click on add tailstock in the Tooling tab of the
ribbon. Then browse to the tailstock GDML file.
Engaging a Tailstock
Disengaging a Tailstock
When using a tailstock mounted on a turret, the system first moves the turret to its default tool change location and
indexes the turret to the station that carries the tailstock. You can change the tool change location from the program by
right clicking on the station change associated to the tailstock.
Approach movement to the clearance position and retract movement away from the clearance position are both managed
automatically by the link engine following the same strategies as used for approach and retract of a turret-mounted tool.
Fixture Avoidance
First introduced as a preview in 5.1, fixture avoidance is now available with Facing, Pocketing, Contouring cycles and with
3-axis FreeForm cycles. Toolpath is modified to stay away from fixtures by a specified clearance distance.
- Facing cycle
- Pocketing
- Contouring
- FreeForm Z-Level Roughing
- FreeForm Z-Level Finishing
- FreeForm Radial Finishing
- FreeForm Spiral Finishing
- FreeForm Concentric Finishing
- FreeForm Floor Finishing
- FreeForm Global Finishing
- FreeForm Parametric Finishing
- FreeForm 3D Contouring
Note: Any 5-axis options and strategies are incompatible with fixture avoidance.
Clearance Override
The fixture avoidance keeps the tool away by a clearance distance from the fixture. By default, the clearance value is the
maximum fixture clearance of the fixtures of the setup.
Set Clearance Override to specify a custom clearance for the cycle.
- Program Info per setup: The program information moves from the Home tab of the ribbon to the Machine Setup
tab. Edit the machine setup or the setup change to set program number and program information associated to
the edited setup.
- Split NC program per setup: A simple method to generate a NC file per setup is to use Split NC command in the
Home tab (behind the command NC code).
- It is now possible to mount/unmount rotary tables, tailstock, steady rest in a new setup.
- It is now possible to use setup changes with machine with multiple tables or spindles.
- When outputting a report, the report generator separates the program per setup.
5-Axis Circle Segment Finishing
Replacing the 5-Axis Plane Finishing cycle, the new 5-Axis Circle Segment Finishing applies to a group of surfaces with
single or double curvature.
This cycle is ideal for use with circle segment tooling. The Circle Segment Finishing creates parallel cut passes
perpendicular to a user-defined increment direction. The cycle automatically positions the tool axis to optimize cut pass
coverage on the faces grouping(s) and to avoid collisions between the tool assembly and the model.
5-Axis Corner Sharpening
Within the 5-axis contouring cycle, a new option allows for tracing sharp concave corners with a tapered tool.
This option is very beneficial for engraving or for cutting the edge of a rotary tool for converting paper.
TNG 5.2 addresses an issue with the compensation side (G41/G42) with turning operations when working on
the sub spindle. Any work around previously implemented to work around the incorrect compensation side on
the sub spindle would need to be removed for a good NC code output.
Enhancements and Fixes TNG 5.2 Hotfix 2 (20.502.2.22414)
Update to reference angle for Mill Threading, Spiraling, Off Center Drilling, Precision Boring and Back
Boring
The setting “Spindle Orientation Angle” within SolidMill Drilling Precision and Back Boring will now be relative to the part
not the machine. Previously this value was used directly in the machine op for simulation and posting of all hole instances
within the drill hole feature. This application resulted in a misalignment between the machine operation and part operation.
The changes will resolve existing issues of Simulation collisions and incorrect stock updates as well as providing a more
consistent and transparent reference angle and application. This also provides the benefits inputting a boring insert
orientation that is independent of Rotary Solutions, Tool Mounting and Workpiece Mounting.
As a result, some changes may be seen on rebuild of these operation as well as others noted below, to provide a closer
calculation alignment across SolidMill cycles.