5-Axis

The additional 5-axis module (5 Axis Module) is an extension of the basic module (Basic Module). This module cannot be run without the basic module.

Continuous 5-axis machining improves tool engagement conditions, allows machining of hard-to-reach areas, or reduces tool overhang. Increased tool rigidity reduces chatter during machining and allows for higher feed rates and better optimization of the machining process. All toolpaths have automatic collision control for both cutters and tool holders.

5-axis milling is focused on finishing operations, and supported cutters include - ball, cylindrical, toroidal, and conical.

Due to the complexity of many multi-axis paths, engagement and connections are performed in a single step. Multi-axis machining must have NURBS information about surfaces and curves available.

NCG CAM allows side machining, where the tool is in contact with the surface. If necessary, a drag angle or tilt angle can be set. When side machining, it is also possible to offset engagements along the tool axis.

This strategy machines the drive surface with options for zig-zag, one-way, and spiral directions, or with additional options for climb and conventional machining.

Even though the part shape is important, the spiral option can provide an optimized result with a toolpath where the tool is in constant contact with the part, while another strategy would cause frequent retracts from the material. When using morphing between two surfaces/curves, the stepover can vary depending on the part shape.

The 5-axis parallel strategy machines the drive surface with parallel passes at angles determined by the X, Y, and Z axes.

Machining options allow the tool to remain perpendicular to the surface with zig-zag, one-way, and spiral options for determining the machining direction, and it is possible to specify lead, lag, or tilt angles. Multiple passes can be set in various ways, and this machining can also become a progressive multi-axis roughing.

NCG CAM allows for automatic conversion of certain types of 3-axis toolpaths to 5-axis, which can save valuable machining time, tool costs, and extend tool life.

In most cases, the conversion ensures the transformation of a 3-axis toolpath with minimum tilt to 5-axis machining to prevent tool holder collision with the material. But there are also other options:
- 4 or 5 axis control
- Tilt through or away from a point
- Tilt inside or outside of a curve
- Lead and lag angles
- Fixed tilt angle (deflection)

Machine simulation allows for simulating the movements of a multi-axis machining tool during machining. This is often very important for 5-axis machining, where it is difficult to visualize the actual machine position when rendering the toolpath. By running the toolpath in machine simulation, collision detection is performed between individual machine components: Head, Table, Clamps, etc. Any problems are displayed, allowing for correction.

Just like toolpath rendering, it is possible to control the simulation speed, zoom in/out, etc. A detected collision will be graphically highlighted, and a dialog box will appear with information about the problem. Machine simulation is capable of not only simulating machine kinematics but also simulating material removal step by step.

By utilizing advanced 5-axis strategies or re-calculating existing 3-axis operations to 5-axis machining, it is possible to optimize machining, increase productivity, or reach otherwise inaccessible parts of the model.

Tool axis control allows for control over tool tilt and movement:
- Tilt through or away from a point
- Tilt through or away from a curve
- Full control of tool and holder undercut
- Minimizing side tilt to prevent collision
- Setting lead or lag angles
- Minimizing tilt (deflection) to prevent holder collision
- Option to choose 3, 4, or 5 axes. If 4 axes are chosen, the user must specify the 4th rotary axis.

Depending on the 5-axis strategy used, various settings are accessible. When linking passes, it is possible to control lead-in/lead-out and transitional movements.

Surfaces are divided into drive and check surfaces. The drive surface is the machined surface, and check surfaces are used to limit the machining area. Instead of check surfaces, check curves can be used. Using 2 sets of check surfaces/curves is common.