What’s New

in CAMWorks

HCL Technologies Ltd. makes no warranties, either expressed or implied with respect to this
document. HCL reserves the right to revise and improve products as it sees fit, and to revise the
specifications and information contained herein without prior notice. Due to continuing product
development, specifications and capabilities described in this document are subject to change without
notice.

Copyright © 2023 HCL Technologies Ltd. All Rights Reserved.

September 2023
Table of Contents

Table of Contents
(Click a link below or use the bookmarks on the left.)

What’s New in CAMWorks 2024 BETA 3

Supported Platforms 3
Resolved CPRs Document 3
General ......................................................................................................................... 4
Dialog Box showcasing Legend during Toolpath Simulation 4
TechDB ......................................................................................................................... 5
Option to assign default Virtual Simulation Machine to be associated with a saved Machine in TechDB 5
Mill ................................................................................................................................. 7
Toolpath Output Options for Bore, Dovetail, Keyway, and User- Defined Tools 7
Option to Suppress Fillets and Chamfers of Mill Features for VoluMill Operations 9
Behavior of ‘Link to Tool’ checkbox option under F/S tab of Operation Parameters Dialog Box 11
‘Avoid Part Faces; Option 2.5 Axis VoluMill Toolpaths 13
Option to define Cut Amounts as Percentage of Flute Length for 2.5 Axis Mill Operations 15
Optimized Pecking Option for Drill Toolpaths generated for Condensed Hole Features 17
Improved Options for Condensed Hole Features 19
Dynamic Highlighting of Nodes in Feature Tree and Operation Tree 22
Improved Leadin/Leadout for Thread Milling Toolpaths for Hole Features 25
Turn / Mill-Turn .......................................................................................................... 26
Options to Highlight Recognized/Unrecognized Faces of the Turn Part Models 26
Defining SOLIDWORKS Fixture Coordinate System (FCS) in Turn Assembly Mode 27
Option to Create Centralized Library of Turn Tool Blocks in TechDB 28
Option to start programming of Turn/Mill-Turn parts by holding them in Sub Spindle 31
Multiaxis ..................................................................................................................... 32
Tilt Tool by Contact Point option for Multiaxis Mill Operations 32
Multiaxis Machining – Roughing Toolpath for Roughing out Pocket Geometries 34
Multiaxis Machining - Finishing Toolpaths for Finish Machining Pocket Geometries 36
Licensing .................................................................................................................... 39
Message Prompt to upgrade License Manager on Floating Networks During CAMWorks Upgrade 39

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What’s New in CAMWorks 2024 BETA

What’s New in CAMWorks 2024 BETA

Supported Platforms

Supported Platforms for 64-bit

The 64-bit version of:

- SOLIDWORKS 2023
Solid Modeler: - CAMWorks Solids 2023

Note: SOLIDWORKS 2024 and CAMWorks Solids 2024 will be supported once
released.

64-bit version of:

- Windows 11
Operating
- Windows 10
System:
[*Home Editions are not supported]

Note: CAMWorks 2024 is supported only on 64-bit Operating systems.

Resolved CPRs Document

The Resolved CPR (CAMWorks Problem Report) document has been updated to
Purpose of
report the software errors that have been resolved in the current Service Pack
Document:
(BETA).

Path to To view the document, select:

Document: C:\Program Files\CAMWorks2024x64\CAMWorks_VC142\Lang\English\CW2024.pdf

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What’s New in CAMWorks 2024 BETA

General
New - Dialog Box showcasing Legend during Toolpath Simulation
Purpose:
To provide a dockable dialog box indicating the legend for graphical comparison of the machined
part and the design part during toolpath simulation
Implementation:
When the Show difference command on the Simulation toolbar was executed, a graphical
comparison of the machined part and the design part is displayed. The amount of deviation is
identified by different colors on the simulated model.
In previous versions of CAMWorks, a legend at the top right corner of the graphics area listed these
various colors and the corresponding deviation indicated by those colors. The legend was always
displayed in the upper left corner and couldn’t be relocated.
From CAMWorks 2024 version onwards, this legend will be displayed in a dockable dialog box that
can be moved to any other desired location within the graphics area.

Legend indicating deviation between machine dpart and design part displayed in a dockable window

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TechDB
New - Option to assign default Virtual Simulation Machine to be associated with a saved
Machine in TechDB

Purpose:
To provide the option to assign the default virtual simulation machine that will be associated with
the selected Mill, turn or Mill-Turn machine in the TechDB

Implementation:
The Simulation machine dropdown list has been introduced in the General tab of the Mill, Turn and
Mill-Turn Machine User Interfaces within the TechDB.
This dropdown field is used to assign the default virtual simulation machine that will be associated
with the selected machine. To assign another simulation machine, click on the Simulation machine
field. A dropdown list of all the simulation machines compatible with the currently selected machine
will be listed. Select the simulation machine from this list and click on the Save button.

Default Simulation Machine in 'Simulation Machine' Dropdown list

Under default TechDB settings, the Simulation machine dropdown list will be populated with the
virtual simulation machines shipped with CAMWorks. Once CAMWorks is installed, the default folder
path to these virtual simulation machines will typically be:
C:\CAMWorksData\CAMWorks202Xx64\MachSim\Machines

Under default TechDB settings, for a selected machine in the Machines user interface, the Simulation
machine dropdown list will populate virtual simulation machines from the above folder location (and
its sub-folders) provided that those simulation machines are compatible with the selected machine.

Populating 'Simulation Machine' Dropdown list with Customized Simulation Machines

If the default simulation machines shipped with CAMWorks do not suit your machining
requirements, you can replace them with customized virtual simulation machines as per your
requirements.
In order to assign a customized virtual simulation machine to a machine selected in the TechDB, it
is necessary that the Simulation machine dropdown list be populated with the customized simulation
machines instead of the default simulation machines. To populate it with customized simulation

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What’s New in CAMWorks 2024 BETA
machines, the folder location from where the simulation machines are picked needs to be changed.
Use the Simulation machine path field under the General tab of Settings user interface in TechDB to
specify the folder path to the customized simulation machines. Once this Simulation machine path field
is updated, the Simulation machine dropdown list will be populated with customized simulation
machines present within that folder and its sub-folders, provided that they are compatible with the
currently selected machine.

Assigning a Simulation Machine for a Machine within the CAMWorks User Interface
In the CAMWorks user interface, for machining part models and assemblies, machines defined in
the TechDB will be available for selection in the Machine tab of the Machine dialog box. For a
selected machine, the default simulation machine assigned will be the selection made in the
Simulation machine dropdown list of TechDB.
However, if required, you can reassign a different simulation machine to the selected machine using
the Simulation machine dropdown list available under the Machine tab of the Machine dialog box
within the CAMWorks application.

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What’s New in CAMWorks 2024 BETA

Mill
Improved - Toolpath Output Options for Bore, Dovetail, Keyway, and User- Defined Tools
Purpose:
For 2 Axis and 3 Axis toolpaths that use Dovetail, Keyway, Bore and User-defined Tools, to
provide the additional option of outputting the toolpath using the flute length of tool in addition to
the default setting of outputting the toolpath through the tool tip.

Implementation:
In previous versions of CAMWorks, for all 2 Axis Mill and 3 Axis Mill operations that supported
Keyway tools, Bore Tools, Dovetail Tools or User-Defined Mill Tools, the toolpaths generated could
only be output through the tool tip. No option to alter this output was available.
From CAMWorks 2024 BETA version onwards, users will be provided with the options to choose how
the toolpath will be output through. A new dropdown list named Output Through has been added
under the Tool page under the corresponding Operation Parameters dialog box for operations
perusing the aforementioned tools.

New ‘Output Through’ Option present under Tool Tab for Operations that Use Bore, Dovetail,
Keyway or User-Defined Tools

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Options in the ‘Output Through’ Dropdown List

Use this dropdown list option to specify the reference point for outputting G-Code coordinates for
that specific operation. Following are the two options available within this dropdown list:
• Lower: This is the default option. When selected, the G-code for the toolpath of the specific
operation will be output through the tool tip.
• Upper: When this option is selected, the Z coordinates for the toolpath will be compensated
using the flute length of the tool.

Illustrative Example of Dovetail Tool when Illustrative Example of Dovetail Tool when
Output Through Option is set to ‘Lower’ Output Through Option is set to ‘Upper’

Note:
If a Keyway tool, Bore Tool, Dovetail Tool or User-Defined Mill Tool is assigned to a Face Mill
operation, then this Output Through option under the corresponding Tool page will be set to
Lower and disabled. It will remain disabled for all Face Mill operations using any one of the
previously mentioned tools as Face Milling only supports toolpath output through the tool tip.

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New - Option to Suppress Fillets and Chamfers of Mill Features for VoluMill Operations
Purpose:
To provide an option to suppress the chamfers and fillets of a 2.5 Axis Mill Feature being machined
using a VoluMill operation so that only vertical faces are considered when generating the VoluMill
toolpath

Implementation:
In previous versions of CAMWorks, if VoluMill toolpaths were generated for 2.5 Axis Mill features
with chamfers and/or fillets, then the toolpath generated considered the geometry of the chamfers
and/or fillets. An option to ensure that chamfers/fillets were ignored and only the vertical faces were
considered while computing the VoluMill toolpath was not available. (Ignoring the chamfers and
fillets is necessary if a user wishes to assign a different operation and machining conditions for
machining these chamfers and fillets.)
From CAMWorks 2024 BETA version onwards, to address this issue, a checkbox option labeled
Suppress top and bottom fillets will be available under the Roughing tab of Rough Mill operations.

New ‘Suppress top and bottom fillets’ checkbox option under Roughing Tab for Rough Mill Operations

This parameter is displayed under the Roughing tab only when the Pocketing Pattern is set to VoluMill.
Under default settings, this checkbox remains unchecked. These default settings can be changed in
TechDB within the Rough Mill Form available under Default Operation Parameters option available in the
Mill menu.

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Suppress top and bottom fillets checkbox option under Roughing Tab in Rough Mill Form of TechDB

When this checkbox option is checked, the Z machining depths will be made as if the sides of the
feature extended to the top and/or bottom of the feature.

Note:
This option is applicable only for fillets and chamfers for the side walls of a 2.5 Axis Mill feature. It is
not applicable for chamfers and fillets on islands present within the mill feature.

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Improved - Behavior of ‘Link to Tool’ checkbox option under F/S tab of Operation
Parameters Dialog Box
Purpose:
For 2 Axis and 3 Axis toolpaths that use Dovetail, Keyway, Bore and User-defined Tools, to provide
the additional option of outputting the toolpath using the flute length of tool in addition to the
default setting of outputting the toolpath through the tool tip.

Implementation:
The Link to tool checkbox is displayed under the F/S tab only when Tool is selected in the Defined by
dropdown list. When this option is checked, the feed/speed parameters under this tab are
feed/speed values associated with the assigned to tool's cutting parameters. Users cannot override
these values as the feed /speed parameter fields get disabled when this checkbox is checked.
In previous versions of CAMWorks, there was no option to uncheck the Link to tool checkbox within
the CAMWorks user interface. The checkbox would be checked even if the default setting for it in the
corresponding Operation Parameters form within the TechDB was assigned the unchecked status. The
option to uncheck this checkbox and override/edit the feed and speed values associated with cutting
parameters of the tool was not available.
From CAMWorks 2024 BETA version onwards, the behavior of the Link to tool checkbox has been
altered to eliminate this limitation. Users will now be able to uncheck this check/uncheck this
checkbox within the CAMWorks user interface. The checked or unchecked status of this checkbox
will now be linked to its default setting in the TechDB. Additionally, users can check/uncheck this
checkbox within the CAMWorks user interface.

‘Link to Tool’
checkbox can now
be checked or
unchecked within
the user interface.

When ‘Link to Tool’

is unchecked,
feed/speed
parameters will be
assigned default
values as assigned
in TechDB. These
values can be edited.
For legacy parts, the
feed/speed values
previously saved
with the part will be
displayed.
F/S Tab under Operation Parameters Dialog Box for Mill Operations

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In the Operation Parameters form in the TechDB, when this option is unchecked under its Feed and
Speed tab, the feed/speed parameters under that tab will be enabled. Assign the desired values to
these parameters and save the changes. These user-assigned default values will then be
correspondingly reflected under the F/S tab within the CAMWorks user interface where they can be
edited and saved as per user requirements.

Feed and Speed Tab in Operations Parameters Form within TechDB User Interface

Note:
For legacy parts/assemblies (viz. parts/ assemblies programmed using a CAMWorks version prior to
CAMWorks 2024 BETA), the behavior of this functionality will be slightly different. When the Link to
tool option is unchecked within the CAMWorks user interface, there will be no corresponding
feed/speed values saved within the TechDB to populate the now enabled feed/speed parameters
under the F/S tab. These parameters will be assigned the feed/speed values originally saved with
the legacy par when it was programmed.
Users can change these values and save these updated values as per their requirements.

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What’s New in CAMWorks 2024 BETA

New - ‘Avoid Part Faces; Option 2.5 Axis VoluMill Toolpaths

Purpose:
If faces of other mill features overlap with the mill feature being machined with a VoluMill toolpath,
then to provide an option that ensure that such overlapping faces are treated as faced to be avoid
by the VoluMill toolpath.

Implementation:
In previous versions of CAMWorks, the VoluMill toolpath generated for 2.5 Axis Mill features did not
consider any overlapping faces of other mill features on the part model as faces to be avoided.
Consequently, the VoluMill toolpath occasionally ended up gouging the part being machined.
From CAMWorks 2024 BETA version onwards, a new checkbox option named Avoid part faces has
been introduced under the Roughing tab for 2.5 Axis Rough Mill operations. This checkbox will be
visible in the user interface only when VoluMill is selected as the Pocketing Pattern under the same
tab.

New ‘Avoidpart faces’ checkbox option under Roughing Tab for Rough Mill Operations

• When this checkbox option is unchecked, the VoluMill toolpath generated for the mill feature(s)
will not consider any overlapping faces of other mill features on the part model as faces to be
avoided. Consequently, the VoluMill toolpath might end up gouging the part.
• When this checkbox option is checked, all other faces of the part model (except the faces of the
mill feature(s) being machined by the VoluMill toolpath) will be considered as avoid faces. The
VoluMill toolpath generated will avoid those faces.

How 'Avoid part faces' Option works for VoluMill toolpath generated for Combined Features
If the VoluMill toolpath is generated for combined Mill features, then when machining one of the
features in the group, the toolpath will treat the faces of other mill features in the same group as
avoid features as well as the other faces of the part model that do not belong to the combined Mill
features group.

How 'Avoid part faces' Option works for VoluMill toolpath generated for an Assembly
If the VoluMill toolpath is generated for Mill features on any component part of an Assembly, then
only eligible faces of that component part will be considered as avoid faces by the VoluMill toolpath
when the Avoid part faces checkbox is checked.
The faces of other parts of the assembly will not be considered as Avoid features.

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How 'Avoid part faces' Option works when one or more Avoided Faces are Suppressed
When the Avoid part faces checkbox is checked and the VoluMill toolpath is generated for the Mill
feature(s) of any part model/assembly, only faces of the part/assembly that are not suppressed
will be considered as faces to be avoided. If any face that was avoided by the VoluMill toolpath is
suppressed after the generation of the VoluMill toolpath, then CAMWorks will display a Rebuild pop-
up message prompting you to rebuild the part/assembly.
When this checkbox option is checked, the Z machining depths will be made as if the sides of the
feature extended to the top and/or bottom of the feature.

VoluMill toolpath when 'Avoid Part Faces" VoluMill toolpath when 'Avoid Part Faces"
option is unchecked for pocket feature. option is checked for the pocket feature.
(Observe that face of the overlapping (Observe that face of the overlapping
Rectangular Boss feature is not avoided Rectangular Boss feature is now avoided by the
VoluMill toolpath.) VoluMill toolpath.)

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What’s New in CAMWorks 2024 BETA

New - Option to define Cut Amounts as Percentage of Flute Length for 2.5 Axis Mill
Operations
Purpose:
To provide an option that allows users to define Cut Amount parameters associated with 2.5 Axis Mill
operations to be defined as a percentage of their assigned tool’s flute length

Implementation:
In previous versions of CAMWorks, for Rough Mill, Contour Mill and Face Mill operations, Cut Amount
parameters such as First Cut Amount, Max Cut Amount and Sub Cut Amount could be defined as
absolute values or as a percentage of the tool diameter.
From CAMWorks 2024 BETA version onwards, an additional option to define these Cut Amount
parameters as a percentage of the Flute Length will be available. This option will be available for Cut
Amount parameters in the following user interfaces:
• First Cut Amount, Sub Cut Amount and Max Cut Amount parameters within Depth Parameters group
box under Rough Mill tab for Rough Mill operations.
• First Cut Amount, Sub Cut Amount and Max Cut Amount parameters within Depth Parameters group
box under Contour tab for Contour Mill operations.
• First Cut Amount and Max Cut Amount parameters within Depth Parameters group box under Facing
tab for Face Mill operations.

Option to Define Cut Amount Parameters as ‘Percent of Flute Length’ under Contour Tab UI

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Within the above-listed user interfaces, the previously present Percentage toggle button to the left of
the Cut Amount parametric fields within Depth parameters group box has been replaced with a flyout
button. Clicking on this button displays three options. Select the desired option for determining the
method for assigning the Cut amount value.
Following are the available options when this flyout button is clicked:
• Input Value : When this option is selected, the cut amount parametric value will be defined as
an absolute value. This is the default option.
• Percent of Tool Diameter : When this option is selected, the cut amount parametric value
will be defined as a percentage of the assigned tool’s diameter.
• Percent of Flute Length : When this option is selected, the cut amount parametric value will
be defined as a percentage of the assigned tool’s Flute Length.

Implementation within the TechDB User Interface

The default values for Cut Amount parameters can be saved within the corresponding Operation
Parameters form within the Technology Database App. In the user interface within the TechDB
wherever the Cut Amount parameters can be edited, the flyout buttons that display options to save
the Cut Amount values as absolute values , percent of tool diameter and percent of flute length
will be displayed. Use these options to edit/save the desired cut amount default values within the
TechDB.

New Options for Defining Cut Amount Parameters under Contour Tab in Operations Parameters Form
within TechDB User Interface

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New - Optimized Pecking Option for Drill Toolpaths generated for Condensed Hole
Features
Purpose:
To provide the Optimized Pecking option for Drill operations generated for Condensed Hole features
so that peck moves can be eliminated in the empty space(s) where a hole feature intersects with
other features

Implementation:
Condensed hole features consist of two or more coaxial condensed cylinders of identical diameter.
These cylinders are either directly separated by an empty space or by an intersecting Mill feature
that cause the cylinders to remain separated.
In previous versions of CAMWorks, when Drill toolpaths were generated for Condensed Hole
features, the toolpaths would contain peck moves even in the locations where hole features
intersected with other features.
From CAMWorks 2024 BETA version onwards, an option named Optimized Pecking will be available
under the Drill Hole Parameters tab of Drill operations.
This parameter will be enabled when the Type is set to Pecking, High Speed Pecking or Variable
Pecking and the Canned cycle output checkbox option is unchecked. The settings associated with
this checkbox option will only affect condensed hole features (both automatically recognized and
interactively inserted condensed hole features.)

New ‘Optimized Pecking’ checkbox option under Drill Hole Parameters Tab for Drill Hole Operations

• When the Optimized Pecking checkbox option is unchecked, the drilling toolpath will be
generated for the combined depth of the condensed holes. Under default settings, this
checkbox remains unchecked. These default settings can be changed in Drill Hole Parameters
tab under Drill form within the TechDB.

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Optimized Pecking Option under Drill Hole Parameters tab in Drill Hole Form of TechDB

• When the Optimized Pecking checkbox option is checked, the drilling toolpath will be
modified such that after machining the first cylinder in the group, the tool will directly move
to the top of the succeeding cylinder and will start the peck moves from the distance set as
Peck clearance amount. The feedrate assigned to this move will be the same as the Z
feedrate. There will be no peck moves between the two cylinders.

Empty space
between coaxial
cylinders of identical
diameter

Drill Toolpath when ‘Optimized Pecking’ Drill Toolpath when ‘Optimized Pecking’ option
option is unchecked: is checked:
Observe that peck moves are created in Observe that there are no peck moves in the
the empty space. empty space. The tool will directly move the
start point/Peck Clearance Amount point of the
next cylinder.

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Improved - Improved Options for Condensed Hole Features

Purpose:
To provide the ability to interactively split/condense hole features and display the number of
holes/cylinders comprising condensed hole features as well as parameters associated with each
such component hole/cylinder
Implementation:
For simple holes, Counterbore holes and Countersink holes, existing versions of CAMWorks
provide the Condense split holes option. This option is available under the Mill Features tab of the
CAMWorks Options dialog box.

Mill Features tab under CAMWorks Options Dialog Box

When this checkbox option is checked and Automatic Feature Recognition is executed, hole features
which are co-axial and of same diameter are condensed into a single hole feature. This condensed
hole will be represented by a single hole feature node in the Feature tree.

Improved: Displaying the Number of Cylinders present for Each Condensed Hole Feature Node
From CAMWorks 2024 BETA version onwards, the display of all condensed hole feature nodes in the
Feature tree has been enhanced to indicate the number of condensed cylindrical faces the
comprise such a hole.

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Number indicating the quantity

of cylindrical faces comprising
the condensed hole.

Condensed Hole Feature in Feature Tree tab

Improved: Option to interactively Condense/Split Hole Features

If the Condense split holes option under the CAMWorks Options dialog box is left unchecked and
Automatic Feature Recognition was executed, then all co-axial hole features will be listed as individual
features under the different Mill Part Setups in the Feature tree. In previous versions of
CAMWorks, there was no option to interactively condense such co-axial holes. Also, no option was
available to split condensed hole features.
From CAMWorks 2024 BETA, an option to interactively condense/ split hole features has been
introduced. This option of Condense/ Split Hole Feature will be available in the context menu of hole
features listed in the Feature tree.

New Option ‘Condense/Split Hole Feature…’ Condense/Split Hole Features Dialog Box
in Context Menu for Hole feature Nodes in displayed on executing the ‘Condense/Split
Feature Tree Hole Feature…’ option

Executing the Condense/ Split Hole Feature command will display the Condense/Split Hole Features
dialog box. The parameters within this dialog box can be used to:
• Condense one or more eligible hole features into a single hole feature.
(Use the Add button to select hole features listed in the Available Hole Features list box and
then click the OK button.)

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• Split one or more hole features constituting a condensed hole feature into separate hole
features.
(Select the hole features to be removed from the Selected Hole Features list box and click
the Remove button to separate it from the condensed hole feature. When you click the OK
button, the selected features will be listed as separate hole features in the Feature tree.)

Improved: Viewing the Number of Condensed Holes in Hole Parameters Dialog Box
In previous versions of CAMWorks, the Hole Parameters dialog box had neither the mechanism to
indicate the number of cylinders comprising a condensed hole nor their associated parameters.
From CAMWorks 2024 BETA version onwards, a new button named Number of Condensed Holes…
has been introduced in this dialog box. This button will be enabled only for condensed hole
features and disabled for other hole feature types. Clicking on this button will display the
Condensed Hole Parameters dialog box. All the cylinders/holes comprising the condensed hole will
be displayed in a list within this dialog box. Selecting any cylinder/hole in this list will display its
associated parameters. The contents displayed within this dialog box are read-only.

Hole Parameters Dialog Box Condensed Hole Parameters Dialog Box

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Improved - Dynamic Highlighting of Nodes in Feature Tree and Operation Tree

Purpose:
To provide the option of identifying the node(s) associated with one or more entities of the part
model/assembly that are selected in the graphics area
Implementation:
In previous versions of CAMWorks, the checkbox option of Dynamic Highlights was available under
General tab of CAMWorks Options dialog box.
From CAMWorks 2024 BETA version onwards, the Dynamic Highlights functionality has been enhanced
to additionally provide the reciprocal option viz. the option of identifying the node(s) associated with
one or more entities of the part model/assembly that are selected in the graphics area. The Dynamic
Highlights checkbox has been replaced with the Dynamic Highlights Option…button.

Dynamic Highlight Options available under General Tab of CAMWorks Options Dialog Box

Clicking on this button displays a dropdown list of available highlighting options. Users can
enable/disable these display options as per their requirements.
Following are the options:
• Upon mouse hover in nodes
This checkbox option represents the existing functionality of dynamic highlighting.
• On mouse hover in graphics area
This checkbox has five sub-options associated with highlighting nodes in the Feature tree/
Operation tree when the entities associated with them are highlighted/selected on the part
model/assembly in the graphics area. Selecting one or more of these sub-options will
automatically place a check in this checkbox.
• Highlight features
If this checkbox option is checked, it will highlight feature nodes in the Feature tree when
one or more SOLIDWORKS entities (face, edge, sketch, etc.) of the part model are selected
in the graphics area. This selection can be in form of mouse hover over a single
SOLIDWORKS entity or manual selection of SOLIDWORKS entities.
The feature nodes highlighted in the Feature tree will be those feature(s) involving or
associated with the selected SOLIDWORKS entities.
In Assembly mode, when SOLIDWORKS entities are selected or mouse hovered in the
graphics area for any part instance, then the corresponding SOLIDWORKS entities for the
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seed part and all other part instances too will be highlighted. Under the Part Manager
item in the Feature tree, the Feature nodes associated with the selected/mouse hovered
entities will be highlighted for both the seed part and all other part instances. The applicable
feature nodes under the Assembly Setup item in the Feature tree will
also be highlighted.

Sample Image of Features nodes being highlighted in Feature tree when a SOLIDWORKS
entities on the part model are hovered over/manually selected

• Highlight operations
If this checkbox option is checked, it will highlight those Operation nodes in the Operation
tree which have toolpaths for the selected SOLIDWORKS entities in the graphics area. This
selection can be in form of mouse hover over a single SOLIDWORKS entity or manual
selection of one or more SOLIDWORKS entities.

• Highlight contain/avoid area

If this option is checked, it will enable users to visually identify operations for which Contain
Areas and/or Avoid Areas have been defined.

• Select nodes on mouse click

If user selects one or more faces on the part model or mouse hovers on any face of the part
model/assembly in the graphics area, then the corresponding features or operations in the
active tree will be selected and highlighted.

• Show selection dialog

Checking this option will enable the display of the Associated Features dialog box and
Associated Operations dialog box. These dialog boxes list the names of associated features
and operations, respectively.

Associated Features Dialog Box

Within the Associated Features dialog box, the listed feature nodes will get dynamically updated as
you mouse hover over other faces/edges or manually select other faces/edges of the part model/
assembly. If you click on any feature node displayed within this dialog box, then its corresponding
entry will be highlighted in the Feature Tree.

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‘Associated Features’ Dialog Box Displayed when a faces/edges on the part model/assembly are
mouse hovered or manually selected

Associated Operations Dialog Box

Within this dialog box, the associated operations will usually be operations used to machine the
selected faces and/or edges. However, if any selected face has a Contain Area/Avoid area defined or if
any selected sketch has been used to define a Contain Area/Avoid area, then the associated operation
will be the Operation node under which that specific Contain Area/ Avoid area has been defined.

‘Associated Operations’ Dialog Box Displayed when a faces/ edges on the part
model/assembly are mouse hovered or manually selected

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Improved - Improved Leadin/Leadout for Thread Milling Toolpaths for Hole Features

Purpose:

Implementation:
For Thread Milling toolpaths, the Leadin and Leadout can be defined using user-defined
parameters.
In previous versions of CAMWorks, the leadin/leadout moves for Thread Milling toolpaths
generated using Multi-point Thread Mill tools were occasionally unsatisfactory due to incorrect
generation of rapid moves and feed moves causing the Cutter compensation to be at the wrong
places.
From CAMWorks 2024 BETA version onwards, improvements have implemented for Leadin/Leadout
moves associated with Thread Milling toolpaths generated for hole features as follows:
1. If the leadin and/or Leadout amount is set to zero, the move from center of the hole feature
to the start of the cut move will be a feed move. This will ensure that the CNC compensation
is applied on this linear move.
2. If the leadin and leadout amount is a non-zero value, then the move from center of the hole
feature to the start of leadin move and the move from end of the lead out move to the center
of the hole feature will be a rapid move.
3. The same above-mentioned behavior will be observed in all the passes of the Thread Mill
toolpath.
4. The Leadin /Leadout moves will be independent of the Gouge check checkbox option’s status.

Sample Toolpath in Previous CAMWorks Version Same Sample Toolpath in CAMWorks 2024
Version

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Turn / Mill-Turn
New - Options to Highlight Recognized/Unrecognized Faces of the Turn Part Models

Purpose:
- To provide the option to highlight faces on the Turn part model in the graphics area that have
recognized by either Automatic Feature Recognition or Interactive Feature Recognition (both Plane
section and Revolved section)
- To provide the option to highlight faces on the Turn part model in the graphics area that have not
been recognized by either Automatic Feature Recognition or Interactive Feature Recognition.
Implementation:
In previous versions of CAMWorks, the option to highlight faces on the active Mill part model that
have been recognized using Automatic Feature Recognition was available in the form of Highlight
Recognized Features option in the context menu of CAMWorks NC Manager node in the Feature tree.
Similarly, the option to highlight faces left unrecognized by Automatic Feature Recognition was
available in the form of Highlight Unrecognized Features option in the context menu of CAMWorks NC
Manager node in the Feature tree.
From CAMWorks 2024 BETA version onwards, this functionality has been extended to Turn Part
models. This functionality has been additionally enhanced to recognize faces that have been
recognized by Automatic Feature Recognition as well as Interactive Feature Recognition (both Plane section
and Revolved section). It will be available as context menu options of Highlight Recognized Features
and Highlight Unrecognized Features for the CAMWorks NC Manager node in the Feature tree.
Note:
• This functionality to highlight faces recognized or left unrecognized only in Turn Part mode. It will
not be available in Turn Assembly mode.
• To use this functionality for Turn legacy parts, you need to execute the Rebuild command to
rebuild the CAM data. Once rebuilt, the Highlight Recognized Features and Highlight Unrecognized
Features command will become available in the CAMWorks NC Manager node’s context menu.

New Options in Context menu of CAMWorks NC Manager Node in Feature tree for Turn Mode

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New - Defining SOLIDWORKS Fixture Coordinate System (FCS) in Turn Assembly Mode
Purpose:
To provide the ability to define Fixture Coordinate Systems for Turn Assemblies in CAMWorks Turn
mode

Implementation:
In previous versions of CAMWorks, the option to
define SOLIDWORKS Fixture Coordinate Systems
was available only in Mill Assembly mode. From
CAMWorks 2024 BETA version onwards, this
functionality has been extended to Turn
Assembly mode.
While defining the Coordinate system for
Machine and Parts in the Assembly mode, users
can now select the available SOLIDWORKS
Coordinate Systems.
The option to select SOLIDWORKS Coordinate
Systems will be available within the user
interface for defining/editing the coordinate
system.
The existing rules of defining different
coordinate systems for the spindle will continue
to apply as they are in the current form.

Commands to invoke the User Interface for

defining/editing the Fixture Coordinate System

User Interface for defining Fixture Coordinate System in Turn Mode

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New - Option to Create Centralized Library of Turn Tool Blocks in TechDB

Purpose:
To provide the option to create a centralized library of Turn tool blocks within the Technology
Database so that the Tool block selection process when defining tools in TechDB gets automated.

Implementation:
For Turn and Mill-Turn machine simulation using the CAMWorks Virtual Machine application, users
needs to assign tool block for the Turn tools.
In previous versions of CAMWorks, the tool block for any Turn tool could be assigned only in the
Operation Parameters dialog box. All Turn Tool Blocks associated with a specific Turn/Mill-Turn
machine could be created and stored in an assigned folder. If the tool blocks had to be reused for
other Turn/Mill-Turn machines, then users had to manually replicate the requisite tool block files in
other folders associated with those respective machines.

From CAMWorks 2024 BETA version onwards, the option to create a centralized library of Turn tool
blocks within the Technology Database will be available. These tool blocks saved in the TechDB can
then be assigned to Turn tools in the Tool crib assigned to different machines. It will thus aid in
automating the Tool block selection process when defining tools in TechDB.
This new functionality will replace the previously cumbersome method of defining tool blocks for
each Turn/Mill-Turn machine.

Menu Option:
The menu option labeled Tool Blocks for invoking the user interface associated with Tool Blocks will
be available under Holders & Assemblies sub-menu of the Turn Tooling menu in the TechDB.

‘Define Tool Block’ Menu Option under Turn Tooling Menu of Technology Database

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Tool Blocks User Interface:
The Tool Blocks user interface is displayed when you click on the Tool Blocks menu option.

Table of Tool Blocks

All the Tool Blocks defined and saved within the TechDB on the left hand side of the user interface in
a tabular format. This table is populated by the available *.TBDINF files present in the folders and
respective sub-folders of the user defined path of CAMWorks Virtual machines linked to CNC
machines defined in the TechDB.

Tool Blocks Form

Use the Tool Blocks form of the right hand side of the user interface to edit any saved Tool Block
entry or add a new Tool Block entry. To add a new tool block entry, use the Browse button
adjacent to this field in order to select the desired Tool Block Info file (*.TBDINF). Once selected,
the name of the selected file is displayed in this field. When you mouse hover over the Tool block
file field, the file path to that specific *TBDINF file will be displayed as a screen tip.

Turn Tool Blocks User Interface

Assigning Tool Blocks to Turn Tool Cribs in TechDB

In the Turn Tool Cribs user interface of TechDB, the option to assign Tool Blocks to Turn tools is
available in the form of the newly available Tool Block parameter. Use this parameter to browse,
select and assign the desired tool block for the current station of the active tool crib. When no tool
block is selected, a value of '-1' will be displayed in this parametric field.

Steps to assign a tool block using the Tool Block Parameter

1. Click on the Browse tool block file button adjacent to this parametric field.
2. Clicking this command button will invoke the Tool Blocks pop-up user interface. To select a tool
block, highlight that tool block in the table of Tool Blocks on the left hand side of this user
interface.
3. Click the Select button at the top left corner. The pop-up user interface will close and revert to
the previous user interface viz. the Tool Cribs user interface. The ID associated with the selected
Tool block will be displayed in the Tool Block parametric field. This indicates that the selected
tool block has been assigned for the current station of the active tool crib.
4. The name of the selected Tool block file will be displayed in the Name field below the Tool Block
parameter within the Tools form.

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Turn Tool Cribs User Interface

User Interface displayed on clicking the Browse tool block file button adjacent to Tool Block field

How the 'Tool Block' Parameter Affects the CAMWorks Application

Within the CAMWorks application, under Station page of Tool tab for Operation Parameters dialog box
of Turn operations, the tool block assigned for the current station of the active tool crib is displayed.
If the Always load in Turret checkbox option is checked, then the tool will be loaded at a specific
station of the tool crib. The name of the Tool Block assigned to that specific station will be displayed
within the Block Name column within the Virtual Machine Tool Block group box under Station page of
the Tool tab.

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New - Option to start programming of Turn/Mill-Turn parts by holding them in Sub Spindle
Purpose:
To provide the option to program Turn and Mill-Turn parts held in the Sub Spindle instead of Main
Spindle at the start of the machining cycle

Implementation:
In previous versions of CAMWorks, for dual spindle Turn and Mill-Turn, it was always assumed that a
Turn/Mill-Turn part to be programmed using CAMWorks will always be held in Main Spindle and then
transferred to the Sub Spindle for subsequent operations. However, at times, there will be cases
where users might want to start machining a part by holding it in the Sub Spindle. This option was
not available.
From CAMWorks 2024 onwards, the functionality to begin programming Turn/Mill-Turn parts held in
the Sub Spindle will be available. If any part is held in the Sub Spindle and this is visually indicated
in the Operation tree (via the positioning of the corresponding node at the top of the Operation
tree), then it will be assumed that the Sub Spindle is at its home position. The toolpaths and NC
code will be generated accordingly.
The existing functionality to transfer the part between Sub Spindle and Main Spindle and vice versa
will be available.

Sample Image of a Turn Part Model held initially in Sub Spindle. Observe that the first Turn Setup in
the Operation Tree is from the Sub Spindle.

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What’s New in CAMWorks 2024 BETA

Multiaxis
New - Tilt Tool by Contact Point option for Multiaxis Mill Operations
Purpose:
Option to tilt tool by specifying a contact point for the cutting direction for Multiaxis Mill operations

Implementation:
For Multiaxis Mill operations, the Axis Control tab under the Operation Parameters dialog box allows
you to define the tool orientation relative to the surface normal.
In previous versions of CAMWorks, within the Cutting direction tilt options group box the Axis
Control tab, when the Tool axis will be parameter was set to Tilted Relative to Cutting Direction, the
Tilt tool By Angle strategy was employed. The angle specified in the Side Tilt Angle field defined the
side tilt value of the tool axis from the surface normal direction based on the toolpath cut
direction.
From CAMWorks 2024 BETA version onwards, an additional tool tilt strategy will be available when
the Tool axis will be parameter is set to Tilted Relative to Cutting Direction. To accommodate this
new option, a dropdown list labeled Side Tilt Type will be displayed below the Tool axis will be
parameter. This dropdown list will be displayed only when Tool axis will be parameter is set to
Tilted Relative to Cutting Direction.

New ‘Side Tilt Type’ dropdown list under Axis Tab for Multiaxis Mill Operations

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Following are the two options that will be available within the Side Tilt Type dropdown list:
• By Angle
This is the existing strategy that was available in previous versions of CAMWorks too as
explained in the previous paragraph. From CAMWorks 2024 BETA version onwards, it will be
available only when the By Angle option is selected. Use the Side tilt angle parameter to specify
the tilt angle.
• By Contact Point
This is the new tilt tool option introduced from CAMWorks 2024 BETA version onwards. Set the
Side tilt type to By Contact Point if you wish to specify the tool contact point using contact point
parameters. When this option is selected, the Contact Point command button will be
displayed adjacent to the Side tilt type dropdown list.
Clicking on this button command will display the Contact Point Parameters dialog box. Use this
dialog box to define the contact point parameters for the cutting direction.

Contact Point Parameters Dialog Box

Parameters in the Contact Point Parameters Dialog Box

Contact Type
The contact point can be defined in two ways:
• By Height: When this option is selected, the contact point is defined by the distance from
the lowest point of the selected profile section to the contact point in the tool
axis direction. The distance is percentage of the length of the selected profile
section.
• Along Profile: When this option is selected, the contact point is defined by the distance from
the lowest point of the selected profile section to the contact point along the
tool profile.
Profile Type: When defining the contact point, you can specify a profile type that identifies the
following different areas of the tool that are to be considered using the Profile Type dropdown list.
The Profile type dropdown list will display only those profile sections of the tool that are available
on the selected tool assigned to the operation.

Start Contact %: Use this parameter to define the start contact point as a percentage of the
height or along the profile. Allowed values are in the range of 0% to 100%.

End Contact % (Checkbox option and associated field): The End Contact% field will be
enabled when you place a check in the End Contact % checkbox. Use this parameter to define the
end contact point as a percentage of the height or along the profile. Allowed values are in the
range of 0% to 100%.

Use negative side tilt (Checkbox): The tool can be aligned on the defined contact point using a
positive and a negative side tilt angle with the same absolute value. By default, the positive angle
will be used. Place a check in this check box to use the negative side tilt angle.

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What’s New in CAMWorks 2024 BETA

New - Multiaxis Machining – Roughing Toolpath for Roughing out Pocket Geometries
Purpose:
Option to generate a new type of Multiaxis Machining Roughing toolpath for roughing out pocket-
shaped geometries

Implementation:
For a Multiaxis Mill operations, the type of Multiaxis toolpath to be generated can be assigned
using the settings available under the Pattern tab. Under this tab, when the Method is set to
Multiaxis Machining and the Machining Type is set to Roughing, a Multiaxis Machining – Roughing
toolpath will be generated.

Settings in Pattern tab of Multiaxis Operations to select Multiaxis Roughing

The user must specify the floor surface(s) in order for CAMWorks to generate the roughing
toolpaths.
This roughing cycle supports both Adaptive and Offset roughing types.
• Adaptive
Adaptive roughing strategy ensures that the cutting conditions remain almost constant. This
offers great improvements compared to conventional constant offset Roughing strategies. This
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strategy avoids full-width cuts by constantly measuring the engagement volume of the tool
with material and by gradually removing material off the remaining stock. It guarantees a
stable load on the tool, which allows an increased material removal rate at higher feedrates
and reduces the overall machining time.
• Offset
Offset roughing applies a conventional constant offset roughing strategy.

Supported Tool Types

Multaxis Machining - Roughing supports the following tool types:
• Flat End
• Ball Nose
• Hog Nose
• Flat End tapered
• Ball Nose tapered
• Hog Nose tapered

Editing the settings for a Multiaxis Machining – Roughing Operation

The following tabs contain the parameters that are specific to Multaxis Machining - Roughing
operations and can be used to edit the settings for these type of operations:
• Pattern tab
• Entry/Retract tab
• Links tab
• Axis Control tab
• Gouge Checking tab
• Rest tab
• Advanced tab

Sample Multiaxis Machining – Adaptive Roughing Toolpath for Machining a Pocket feature

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What’s New in CAMWorks 2024 BETA

New - Multiaxis Machining - Finishing Toolpaths for Finish Machining Pocket Geometries
Purpose:
Option to generate a two new type of Multiaxis Machining – Finishing toolpaths for finish
machining pocket-shaped geometries

Implementation:
For a Multiaxis Mill operations, the type of Multiaxis toolpath to be generated can be assigned
using the settings available under the Pattern tab.
• Under this tab, when the Method is set to Multiaxis Machining and the Machining Type is set
to Floor Finishing, a Multiaxis Machining – Floor Finishing toolpath will be generated. This
toolpath will ideal for machining the floor of the pocket shaped geometries.
• Under this tab, when the Method is set to Multiaxis Machining and the Machining Type is set
to Wall Finishing, a Multiaxis Machining – Wall Finishing toolpath will be generated. This
toolpath will ideal for machining the floor of the pocket shaped geometries.

Settings in Pattern tab of Multiaxis Operations to select Multiaxis Roughing

The user must specify the floor surface(s) or wall surface(s) in order for CAMWorks to generate
the corresponding finishing toolpaths.
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Supported Tool Types

Multaxis Machining - Finishing supports the following tool types:
• Ball Nose
• Ball Nose tapered
• Lollipop
• Barrel

Editing the settings for a Multiaxis Machining – Roughing Operation

The following tabs contain the parameters that are specific to Multaxis Machining - Roughing
operations and can be used to edit the settings for these type of operations:
• Pattern tab
• Entry/Retract tab
• Links tab
• Gouge Checking tab
• Advanced tab
• Axis Control tab

Sample Multiaxis Machining – Floor Finishing Sample Multiaxis Machining – Wall Finishing
Toolpath for Machining a Pocket feature Toolpath for Machining a Pocket feature

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Licensing
New - Message Prompt to upgrade License Manager on Floating Networks During
CAMWorks Upgrade
Purpose:
To prompt users to upgrade CAMWorks License Manager application on License Server machine of
Floating Network installations to ensure successful license validation when client machines access
licenses on the License Server

Implementation:
Need to Upgrade CAMWorks License Manager Application
The CAMWorks License Manager application is the tool that enables an installed CAMWorks
application to verify and validate its configured license and associated licensed modules. Multiple
minor upgrades and occasionally major upgrades are added to CAMWorks License Manager
application supplied with every new CAMWorks release. If the upgrades are critical in nature, they
will affect the license validation process. Hence, it becomes mandatory to upgrade the CAMWorks
License Manager application along with the CAMWorks application to ensure successful license
validation.

License Validation Failure when CAMWorks License Manager Application is not Upgraded on License
Server
For Hardware dongle and node-locked licenses( both being single-user licenses), the CAMWorks
License Manager application gets automatically updated when you install the upgraded CAMWorks
version. However, for Floating Network licenses, the CAMWorks License Manager application needs
to be upgraded on client machines as well as the License Server. If the CAMWorks License Manager
version installed on the License Server is older than the version on a client machine, the license
validation will fail and users of that specific client machine will not be able to use CAMWorks.

Message Prompt to Ensure CAMWorks License Manager Application is Upgraded on License Servers
From CAMWorks 2024 BETA version onwards, for CAMWorks Floating Network installations, a fail-
safe in the form of a message prompt has been introduced to ensure that users upgrade the
CAMWorks License Manager application on the client as well as the License Server. The fail-safe will
work as follows:
1. On a client machine, when you run the executable file to install/upgrade the CAMWorks
application, the Installation Wizard will first check whether the CAMWorks License Manager
application is installed or not.
2. If the CAMWorks License Manager application is not installed, then it will proceed with the
CAMWorks installation and also install the latest CAMWorks License Manager application.
3. If the CAMWorks License Manager application is installed, then the Wizard will check the
application’s version number.
i. If the version number of the installed License Manager application is compatible for running
the CAMWorks version that will be installed by the executable file, then will proceed with
the CAMWorks installation.
a. If a version of the License Manager application supplied with CAMWorks version being
installed is newer to the version installed on the client, then the installed License
Manager application will be upgraded.
b. If the version numbers are identical, then the License Manager application on the client
will not be upgraded.
ii. If the version number of the installed License Manager application is not compatible for
running the CAMWorks version that will be installed by the executable file, then the
following message will be displayed:

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Notification Message Prompting Users to Upgrade CAMWorks License Manager

a. If you select Yes within this message box, then the Installation Wizard will proceed with
CAMWorks installation and also upgrade the installed License Manager application. It is
recommended that you upgrade the License Manager application installed on the License
Server. Failure to do so will cause the license validation process between clients and
License Server to fail.
b. If you select No within this message box, then the Installation Wizard will exit. Upgrade
the License Manager application on the License Server and then install the CAMWorks
application on all the clients. When the message prompt is displayed again, select Yes
to proceed with installation.

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