20.4 GRAPHICAL PART PROGRAMMING

---

Basically,

1. Part geometry is entered in 2D or 3D.

2. Tool geometry and machine tool type are entered.

3. Speeds and feeds are entered or calculated based on tool and work material.

4. Inside/outside of geometry, and initial stock sizes are selected.

5. Cutter paths are generated.

6. Cutter paths are converted to a machine specific language (eg, G-codes).

These programs are usually built into better CAD systems or are available as stand alone software

Some machine tools have these programmers built into the controller.