Offsets

Each Z-level comprises a "surface profile" and a series of concentric offset profiles. The minimum and maximum offset values define the range of the size of spaces between the passes. SolidCAM will choose the largest value possible within that range that does not leave unwanted upstands between the passes.

A set of Contour Roughing passes, for example, is created from a series of offset profiles. If each profile is offset by no more than the tool radius then the whole area will be cleared. In certain cases where the profile is very smooth it is possible to offset the profiles by up to the tool diameter and still clear the area. Obviously, offsetting by more than the tool diameter will leave many upstands between the passes. Between these two extremes, the radius and the diameter, there is an ideal offset where the area will be cleared leaving no upstands. SolidCAM uses an advanced algorithm to find this ideal offset.

The Min. Offset value should be greater than the Offset tolerance parameter and smaller than the tool shaft radius; the Max. Offset value is calculated automatically.

1.