Версия 12 сентября 2017 года

БЫСТРЫЙ СТАРТ
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Modified: Monday, August 28, 2017 5:19 PM
Contents

INTRODUCTION 6
Welcome 6
About The System 6
About Getting Started 6

Contacting 3D Systems GibbsCAM 7

GIBBSCAM ON THE WEB 8

INTERFACE 10
About the Software 10

QUICK START 12
The Basic Steps for Using GibbsCAM 12
1. Create or Open a Part File 12
2. Make Or Modify a Model 13
3. Create Operations 13
4. Render the Part 14
5. Post the Part 15

USING THE SYSTEM 16

Launching The System 16
Opening or creating a Part 17
Opening Parts 18
Creating New Part Files 19
Importing Part Models 20

3
Setting Up A Part - The Document Control Dialog 21
General Tab 22

Comments 23

Machining Preferences 23

Machine Setup 24

Workspace (Mill or Lathe) 24

Interop Positions 24

Intermediate Tooling 25

Default Type and MDD Parts 26

Geometry Creation 27
Geometry Palette 27
Creating Geometry 28
Connecting Geometry 29
Workgroups 30
Level 1 Interface 30
Level 2 Interface 30
Workgroup List 31
Workgroup dialog Right Mouse Menu 31
Coordinate Systems 32
Coordinate System List 33
Coordinate System Palette 33
Creation of 3D Bodies 33
Creating Solids Example 35
Workgroups and Coordinate Systems in Solids 35

Tool Creation 36
Tool Creation Dialogs 36
Tool List 39
Dragging Multiple Tools 40
Tool List Context Menu 41
Tool Manager 43

Process Creation 43
Creating a Process 44
Applying the Same Machining Function to Multiple Processes 45
Clearing the Process List 45
Process List 46
Multiple Process Programming 46
Process List Context Menus 47

4
 Process Manager 48
Operations 48
Defining the Cut Shape 50
Process becomes Operation 51
Operations List 52
Operation List Context Menu 53
Operation Manager 55
Operation Data 55
Operation Modifiers 57
Using Operation Modifiers 58
Modifying Operations 59
Sorting Operations 60
Multi-Level Sort 62
Printing the Toolpath 62
Cut Part Rendering 62
Post Processing 63
Posting Step-By-Step 63
Post Processor dialog 67

COMMUNICATIONS 71
Protocols 71
Communicating with a CNC 72

CONVENTIONS 74
Text 74
Graphics 74

LINKS TO ONLINE RESOURCES 75

APPENDIX 76
Glossary 76

5
 Introduction

Introduction
Welcome
This Getting Started Guide provides you with an overview of GibbsCAM, its use and interface. A
lot of general information about the software is discussed in this document. As such, we highly
recommend that you review this material before moving on to more specific topics such as
Geometry Creation, Advanced CS, SolidSurfacer or MTM.

About The System

Please be advised that GibbsCAM security is activated via the Internet. If you do not have
Internet access available, you may activate security via e-mail or regular mail.
Please allow adequate time to have the license file sent to you.

Method Estimated time

E-mail during Gibbs business hours Same business day if received before 2:00 PST
E-mail after hours Next business day
Regular mail 1-2 business days plus regular mail delivery time

About Getting Started

This document is designed to give you both a quick start to using GibbsCAM and also a more
detailed overview of the system in general. Whether you want to jump right into using the
software or read the manuals cover to cover, this book can be of great help.
Among the contents of the book are:
• Interface : Explains all of the common elements of the system. It does not matter whether
you are a new user or a seasoned power user, this section will help you get acquainted with
GibbsCAM and its many changes. It will help you understand the software and might
answer the question, “What am I looking at?”
• Quick Start which introduces the process or steps to using GibbsCAM. This can be thought
of as an overview of using GibbsCAM.
• Using the System which goes into greater detail than the Overview does.: Goes through the
process of making a part from start to finish. You will still want to read the individual

6
 Introduction

product guides for the greatest understanding of a particular product, but this section will
give you a head start.
• Appendix: Includes a Glossary of terms used in GibbsCAM and in the industry. You might
want to look through the glossary to learn whether we are speaking the same language. The
Appendix also includes answers to frequently asked questions.

Contacting 3D Systems GibbsCAM

Technical Support is available to all users. Our Technical Support department is available to
answer your questions Monday through Friday, 5:00AM to 5:00PM Pacific Time.

l (800) 654-9399
Telephone:
l +1.805.523.0004
Fax: l +1.805.523.0006
l [email protected]
l [email protected]
E-Mail:
l [email protected]
l [email protected]

When contacting the Technical Support department, it is helpful if you know the following
information. Version information is found by selecting the About item from the Help menu of
your GibbsCAM application.

• Type of computer • CPU speed and memory (RAM)

• Operating system • Version of GibbsCAM software

7
 GibbsCAM on the Web

GibbsCAM on the Web

For more information and help, find us on the World Wide Web:

http://www.GibbsCAM.com
The Official GibbsCAM website.

http://forums.GibbsCAM.com/
GibbsCAM support forums.
www.gibbscam.com/supports/gibbscam-training
For GibbsCAM training videos

http://support.GibbsCAM.com/
Manage your Trouble Tickets or search the GibbsCAM Knowledgebase for a
solution

http://www.facebook.com/gibbscam
GibbsCAM is on Facebook

http://www.youtube.com/user/gibbscam1/videos
Product videos and information

http://twitter.com/gibbscam
Follow us on Twitter

Other useful contacts:

http://www.machininginfo.com/gibbs_menu.html
External website that provides training videos for GibbsCAM.

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 GibbsCAM on the Web

http://www.autodesk.com/inventor
External website that provides more information on Autodesk Inventor products.

http://www.Volumill.com
External website that provides more information on VoluMill Ultra High-Performance
Toolpath (UHPT) from Celeritive Technologies.

http://www.predator-software.com
External website that provides more information on a CNC editor and a virtual CNC
viewer from Predator Software, Inc.

9
 Interface

Interface
About the Software
GibbsCAM supports Windows 10, is compatible with Windows 8 and Windows 7, and certified
for Windows Vista. This means, among other things, we follow user account control guidelines,
support x64 Versions of Windows and support concurrent user sessions. GibbsCAM no longer
supports 32-Bit Windows. Application and document icons comply with Windows 7 user
interface guidelines.

Other features include:

• Multiple monitor support
• Dynamically resizable window
• Copy and Paste of data between parts and sessions
• Unbound Dialogs — dialogs can be placed outside of the application window
• Window snap — windows and dialogs will snap into position when near each other. This
also applies to resizing dialogs.
• Roll-up — windows can be made to compress to only display the title bar, and uncompress
when activated by the mouse
• Windows can have transparency
• Memory of where windows were placed, per user
OpenGL® is integrated into the software. OpenGL is a 3D library that provides the system with
fast hardware accelerated rendering for, high quality rendering, true color display, material
properties, advanced light sources, user-definable colors, animated view transitions, shadows,
transparent planes and user-defined OpenGL configurations. All of this translates to improved
display quality and more user control and customization.
The GibbsCAM software has two interface levels. Level 1 Interface is deliberately clear and
uncluttered but still displays the Main menu, Tool, Process and Operation Lists and toolpath.

10
 Interface

1. Main Menu
2. Pull-down menu
3. Command Toolbar
4. Tool List
5. Workspace
6. Geometry
7. Palette with WG
info
8. View Control
palette
9. Trashcan

The Level 1 Interface.

The Level 2 interface is the most advanced interface. It is recommended that most users work
in this interface level as it is optimized for accessibility and power. Every capability of the
system is available from the Level 2 interface. Level 1 only contains subsets of the features in
level 2.

1. Command Toolbar
2. Floating Toolbar
3. Workgroup List
4. Coordinate System
List
5. Process List
6. Machining
7. Toolpath
8. Operations List

The Level 2 Interface with some elements also available in Level 1.

11
 Quick Start

Quick Start
Powerfully Simple
GibbsCAM software is easy to use. A quick overview of the process from part creation to
completion is provided here. Although GibbsCAM imposes no set sequence to creating a part,
some things need to be done before others. For example, you must have a file to work on before
you can make a part; a Tool list must be defined before toolpath can be generated. However,
once you have done something in the system, you can go back, change something (like a tool or
stock condition), and effortlessly update the entire part. The following information provides
general guidelines on the process of creating a part.

The Basic Steps for Using GibbsCAM

There are five basic steps to using GibbsCAM.
1. Create or Open a Part File
2. Make Or Modify a Model
3. Create Operations
4. Render the Part
5. Post the Part

1. Create or Open a Part File

First of all we need a part file to work on. We can either create a new part file or open an
existing model. This is commonly done through the Document Control dialog. You will find
this in the Command Toolbar at the top left of the workspace.
The DCD dialog provides controls for file management, part measurements, comments and
preferences, stock setup, and the like. For more information, see “Setting Up A Part - The
Document Control Dialog” on page 21“Setting Up A Part - The Document Control Dialog” on
page 21

12
 Quick Start

The Document Control dialog for a Lathe part

2. Make Or Modify a Model

Next you need to make a model of your part, or modify an existing model. Modeling is

accomplished with the Geometry Creation Palette , with Solid Modeling , or a

combination of the two. For more information see the Common Reference and Geometry
Creation guides.

Part Models: Geometry and a Solid

3. Create Operations
Once a model is created, machining functions need to be applied to the part. This includes

setting the available tools , defining processes, and creating operations . Creating tools
can be done at any time, so long as a part file is open. Processes and operations are created
after tools are defined. For more information, see the Common Reference, Mill and Lathe
guides.

13
 Quick Start

A Tool, a Process, and Resulting Toolpath

4. Render the Part

Once operations have been defined for machining a part, the part should be rendered. This
provides a visual check of the part to ensure that the results are as expected.
Many errors can be caught using Cut Part Rendering (CPR) or Simulation. It can also be very
useful to run the rendering as you create operations, rather than after you are finished and are
about to post the part. For more information, see the Common Reference guide.

14
 Quick Start

Cut Part Rendering (CPR) Is Run on a Part

5. Post the Part

The last step is to generate the output from the part file and create NC-code. This is called Post
Processing. For more information, see “Post Processing” on page 63.

Posting a Part

15
 Using the System

Using the System

The following sections provide a more detailed description of your GibbsCAM software. This
includes
Launching The System, next
Opening or creating a Part
Geometry Creation,
Tool Creation,
Creating a Process,
Operations,
Post Processing.

Launching The System

GibbsCAM products can be launched in several ways.

l Launch the application through a desktop shortcut.

The installer creates a desktop shortcut. This is the easiest way to start the software.

l Use the Start menu to launch the application.

Click the Start menu, go to All Programs, then the GibbsCAM folder, then GibbsCAM v12.
Click the mouse button again to launch the program.

l Double-click a part file.

Double-clicking a part file will also launch the system.

l Windows Search Bar.

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 Using the System

Using the Start Search feature in Windows to start an application

This is perhaps the easiest method if you are unable to locate the application shortcut. Open
the Start menu and start typing the application name, for example “gi”, and a list of files and
programs instantly appear that begin with those letters allowing you to select the exact item you
are searching for.

Opening or creating a Part

There are four ways to create a new part or open an existing part.
1. From the File menu select New or Open.

2. Open the Document Control dialog by clicking on the Document button in the
Command Toolbar.
The top section of the Document Control dialog has buttons for creating a new part (New )
or opening an existing part (Open).

17
 Using the System

3. Press Ctrl+N or Ctrl+O on the keyboard.

Pressing Ctrl+N will create a new part. Pressing Ctrl+O will bring up the Open dialog.
Learning the system’s keyboard shortcuts can be a great time saver.
4. Drag and drop a file icon onto the application window or a desktop shortcut.

Opening Parts
When the Open command is selected, the Open part file dialog will appear. The initial location
is “My Documents” or the directory that was last used when opening a part. The dialog displays
a picture of selected VNC files and provides some basic information about the part, such as its
size and material.

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 Using the System

The Open dialog will only display files of the type you tell it to look for. By default this setting is
VNC files, the native file type for GibbsCAM files. To change the file type, click on the Files of
type pull-down menu. This will display the types of files you may directly open. Please note that
this changes with the options you have purchased.
Optional ways of opening a part are: double-clicking a part file and dragging and dropping
in the workspace or a shortcut icon.

Creating New Part Files

When one of the three methods of creating a new part has been selected, a dialog will come up.
This allows you to give the new file a name and select where it should be saved. Enter the name
of the part in the File Name text box and navigate to where the file should be saved. Click on
Save.

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 Using the System

Now that a new part file has been created, the part must be set up. The units of measurement,
stock size, type of part and clearances must be set. This is accomplished through the
Document Control dialog (DCD). For more information on the DCD, see Setting Up A Part -
The Document Control Dialog.

Importing Part Models

Importing allows an existing saved part to be added to a current part. The current part file may
be new, with no tools or geometry or the part may be an existing part full of geometry, solids,
tools and operations. Using the Import function is a good way to merge two similar parts or add
fixtures and jigs.

To import a model into the part file click on the File > Import… option in the main Menu.
The Import file dialog appears, allowing navigation to the file being imported. Choose the
directory that the file is in and change the Files type choice to the type of file that is being

20
 Using the System

imported. When the file is shown in the list, double-click it or choose Open. This will bring the
existing part and its settings into the Workspace.
The Import dialog will only display files of the type you tell it to look for. To change the file
type, click on the pull-down menu. This will display the types of files you may directly import.
Please note that this changes with the options you have purchased.

Setting Up A Part - The Document Control Dialog

Setting up a part refers to defining the units of measurement and size of the part, the type of
machine that will cut the part, the material the part will be made from and setting the part’s
clearances. All of this data is entered in or selected from the Document Control dialog (DCD).
The DCD is accessed by clicking on the Document button in the Commands palette.
The lower part of the dialog differs according to machine type and other factors. It is discussed
in more detail in the guides for Mill and Lathe.

1. Comments; see below.

2. Machining Preferences; see
below.
3. Machine Setup tab: see the
Mill guide.
4. Machine Type; see
immediately below.
5. File Control buttons; see
immediately below.
6. Materials: see the Common
Reference guide.
7. Measurement Units; see
immediately below.
8. Interop Positions; see below.
9. Intermediate Tooling tab: see
the Common Reference guide.

10. Workspace tab: see the Mill

guide.
11. Tool Holder Basics
12. Clearance Plane
13. Indicates whether the Tool
Change checkbox is selected;
Interop Positions below.
Document Control dialog for a generic 4-axis vertical mill

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 Using the System

1. Comments
2. Machining Preferences tab:
see the Common Reference
guide.
3. Machine Type
4. File Control buttons
5. Materials: see the Common
Reference guide.
6. Measurement Units
7. Interop Positions
8. Intermediate Tooling tab: see
the Common Reference guide.

9. Workspace tab: see the Lathe

guide.
10. Tool Holder Basics
11. Measurement Units
12. Clearance Plane
13. Fixed Clearance positions

Document Control dialog for a generic horizontal lathe

General Tab

Machine Type
The Machine pull-down menu is a list of all available types of machines a part may be cut on.
This may include 2- and 3-axis lathes and 3-, 4- or 5-axis mills, both horizontal and vertical. The
actual contents of the menu will vary depending on the options installed. Select the type of
machine that will be used to cut your part.
File Control buttons
This set of buttons provides access to creating a new part, opening and closing an existing part
and saving the current part. Additionally, there are options for saving the part. The part may be
saved under a different name or location by selecting Save As or a copy of the part may be saved
using the Save Copy button. Save Copy will append “copy” to the file name so the original and
copy may be saved in the same folder. When using the Save Copy option, parts may be saved to
older versions of GibbsCAM. Select the version you wish to save the part as, from the Save As
Type pull-down menu.

Part Material
The material the part will be cut from may be selected here. This is a database of materials and
recommended cut speeds and feeds for each entry. Additional entries may be added and all
entries may be edited. For more information on Materials, see the Common Reference guide.

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 Using the System

Measurement Units
Select whether the part will be defined in inches or millimeters. This setting may be changed at
anytime but any existing geometry, tools and operations will have to be updated to match the
change. Please note that solids will automatically scale to match the part. This does not affect
posted data as post processors are either inch or metric and will convert values as needed.
Additionally, solids and sheets are not affected by changing the measurement units.

Comments

Any text entered as a part comment will be shown in the part preview of the Open dialog and
will appear in posted output. An unlimited number of plaintext Unicode characters can be
entered. The user is responsible for ensuring that this field contains only post-compatible
characters.

Machining Preferences

Spline Machining Tolerance

This is the curve height accuracy used when machining splines/curves or when using 2D/
3D Form tools. Curves are machined as a series of small straight lines. This value is the
maximum amount these lines may deviate from the true curve.

Important: The value for Spline Machining Tolerance is used by 2D Form tools and 3D Form
tools, which typically use free-form curves (spline geometry) in their construction.
Entry Line Approach
Used when specifying an entry line and arc for Contouring or Pocketing. Tangent Entry Line to
Arc keeps the line tangent to arc. Normal entry line to Arc keeps line perpendicular to arc -
recommended if you prefer CRC from tool edge. Line length should be greater than or equal
to tool radius.
Mill/Lathe CRC Type
Select Toolpath type for Ops. In Tool Center, the toolpath is calculated to tool centerline,
including any stock allowances. For Tool Edge, toolpath is to the tool edge, including stock
allowance. For Finish Profile, toolpath is at finish geometry and does not include stock.
CRC Entry Line Validation
When checked, this will enable the validation check for the CRC entry line. The check will
determine if the CRC entry line is greater than zero in length.
Omit Small Chord Arcs
When checked, toolpath arcs whose chord height from a line with the same end point is
less than 0.0001 inches, will be output as a single line move.
Use Global Settings for Solids
When checked, applies default tolerances to machining processes. These settings can be
overridden for a specific operation(s) using the Advanced Settings option in the process
dialogs.
Part Rough Tolerance
When Tolerance:Rough is selected in a process dialog, this value is used for the machining
tolerance. This value is also used for the stock tolerance.

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 Using the System

Part Finish Tolerance

When Tolerance:Finish is selected in a process dialog, this value is used for the machining
tolerance. This value is also used for the stock tolerance.
Fixture Tolerance
This value is the tolerance used if toolpath encounters a body designated as a fixture. The
tolerance is applied to the clearance tolerance value.
Fixture Clearance
This is a clearance tolerance applied to fixtures encountered when creating toolpath.

Machine Setup

This option only appears for Milling machines and is discussed in more detail in the Mill Guide.

Workspace (Mill or Lathe)

For more details on this tab, see the Mill or Lathe guides.

Mill stock Lathe stock

Interop Positions

For any generic MDD, or for any custom MDD that specifies a Flow Axis Set (FAS) with an
Interop Event Location whose axes are set to User, the Interop Positions page lets you decide
whether or not to specify tool change positions for parkable axes.
Additional controls are offered, depending on settings in the MDD.
• If the MDD's Machining Preferences page has Show Tool Change Check Box selected, then
the DCD's Interop Positions page will offer a Tool Change checkbox. Selecting this checkbox
displays an Axis / Value table that allows you to specify the tool change position for each
listed axis.
Note that for a radial axis, such as the X in a simple XZ lathe, the value you supply is a
radial tool change position, not a diameter value.

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 Using the System

• If the MDD's Machining Preferences page has the Force Share User Axis Values checkbox
selected, then the Axis / Value table will cause the specified values to be shared
automatically across all matching axes in each Flow Axis Set (FAS).
• If the MDD does not force sharing of user axis values, then the end user has control:
○ If you select the Share User Axis Values checkbox, the values you specify are shared across
all axes in every FAS, as noted above.
○ If you deselect this checkbox, then a pull-down menu appears that allows you to set user
axis values for each FAS Interop Event Location.
In addition to specifying the position of the turret when tools are changed, the Document
dialog provides the user with two options for handling part clearance, Auto Clearance or Fixed
Clearance. The selection made will determine how the system will calculate positioning moves
between operations.
This enables you to set tool change positions.

Intermediate Tooling

Enables detailed setup of toolblocks and fixtures. In the Common Reference guide, see the
section on Intermediate Tooling.

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 Using the System

Default Type and MDD Parts

Default settings and prepared tool lists may be automatically applied when creating a new part.
This includes information such as tools, processes, operations, geometry and custom stock.
This capability works for Machine Types and MDD’s (Machine Definition Documents). An
MDD must be available for each machine that will be used within Gibbs. This is because each
machine has different parameters and abilities.
To enable Defaults for machine types or MDD’s, create a new part with the desired machine

type or MDD with the tools, stock and other settings and choose File > Type Default Part or

MDD Default Part. You can override these defaults by resaving the default type or MDD.

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 Using the System

Once a default is created, each time a new file is created it will have the very same data as the
default file.

Switching Between Defaults

The default settings are determined by the current MDD selection in the Document Control
dialog. Close any open part files and choose a machine type from the MDD list and create a
new part to apply the defaults for a different MDD.

Geometry Creation
For more comprehensive information about Geometry Creation, see the Geometry Creation
Guide. The following provide a general overview of creating geometry within GibbsCAM.
Geometry Palette,
Connecting Geometry,
Workgroups,
Coordinate Systems.
Creation of 3D Bodies

Geometry Palette
To create and modify geometry, you use the Geometry Creation palette. The Geometry Creation
palette has seven buttons that lead to sub-palettes for creating geometry, one button that
connects and disconnects geometry and one button that leads to a dialog—the Geometry
Expert. Each sub-palette contains a set of buttons that display a dialog or perform a function.

5. Splines button
1. Points button
6. Chamfer/Fillet
2. Lines button
7. Geo From Solids
3. Circles button
8. Connect/Disconnect
4. AutoShapes button
9. Geometry Expert
The Geometry Creation palette

Geometry is essential to machining a part. Without it, there is nothing to machine unless you
have the SolidSurfacer option. Points are used for drilling, tapping and thread milling. Lines and
circles are used for roughing, pocketing and contouring.
You can create geometry in four ways:

l Text input through a dialog,

l Copy and paste from existing geometry,
l Draw by hand with a mouse or a digitizing tablet. You can only create lines and points by
hand, other features require dialog input.
l Imported from a file.

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 Using the System

You can combine geometric features into complex shapes. Shapes can be “open” or “closed.” A
closed shape is a shape that has no discernible end, such as a rectangle. An open shape has
ends and does not connect to itself. An example is three sides of a rectangle or a line connected
to an arc.

An example of a closed shape and an open shape

To connect two features, such as a line and a circle, a point must be created where the features
intersect. The point is referred to as a connector. Points are also referred to as terminators, or
terminating points in some cases. The points at the ends of an open shape are referred to as
terminators.

Creating Geometry
There are three basic types of dialog input for geometry. First is the entry of specific
coordinates in text boxes. Second is the selection of a specific feature to be used as a reference,
such as tangent to a circle or a point. Third is specifying the dimensions and location of a final
shape, such as a rectangle.

The three basic types of geometry dialogs

Once a dialog has enough information to create the type of feature specified, the Do It or single
feature button will become available. Click on the button or hit Enter on your keyboard to
create the feature. Shape dialogs will remain open after a feature is created while the palette will
return to the Geometry Creation palette unless the multiple feature button is clicked.
An unseen function of the Geometry Creation palette is its ability to create geometry without
having data entered into dialogs. If geometry in the Workspace is selected and provides enough
information to define a feature, clicking on that feature in the geometry creation palette will
open the appropriate creation dialog. For example, selecting three points in the Workspace and

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 Using the System

clicking on the Circle button in the Geometry Creation dialog will open the Three Features
Circle sub-palette with all of the data loaded and ready to be created.

Connecting Geometry
The following figure illustrates how geometry is connected.
1. To begin with there are just two unconnected lines, one vertical, one horizontal. Both lines
are unterminated.
2. A connecting point is then added by selecting both lines, then clicking on the
Connect/Disconnect button. The lines are still unterminated but connected.
3. A circle is then added.
4. In the fourth image, the circle and horizontal line are selected then clicking the
Connect/Disconnect button. A connecting point is added to connect the circle to the
horizontal line, and the line is terminated.
5. The circle is then connected to the vertical line and a closed shape is created. A closed
shape has no start or end point and effectively creates a loop of some shape.
6. In the sixth image, the vertical line is deleted and the connecting points are changed to
terminating points by clicking on the Connect/Disconnect button. For more information
see the Geometry Creation guide.

1 2 3

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4 5 6
Example of Connecting and Terminating Geometry

Workgroups
Workgroups are separate layers used to separate different groups of geometry, including custom
stock. This can be of great help in keeping the Workspace uncluttered. While the geometry for
more than one workgroup may be viewed, only the geometry in the current workgroup may be
modified. All geometry created will be in the current workgroup. Geometry in background
workgroups will be colored gray and cannot be selected.

Level 1 Interface
Workgroups are accessed through the Geometry Creation palette. There are two buttons on the
top right-hand corner of the palette. The left button opens the workgroup list, and the right
button brings up the workgroup dialog to quickly switch the current workgroup.

Level 2 Interface
Workgroups are accessed from the Command Toolbar. If you click the top of the Workgroup
command the Workgroup dialog opens (Below left). Clicking the down arrow opens a quick
selection list (Below right).

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 Using the System

Workgroup List

When a new part is created, there is only one Workgroup. Add more Workgroups by clicking
New WG. The current Workgroup is highlighted in blue. Clicking a column title in the
workgroup dialog will sort the Workgroup display.
The Workgroup dialog has four columns: Workgroup number; Eye status display; (Show/hide
Workgroup) Comment; and Type.

Workgroup dialog Right Mouse Menu

You can right-click the Workgroup title bar or a Workgroup list entry to open a context
menu. This contains actions that are commonly used with workgroups:

WG Info
The WG Info choice opens a dialog that allows you to specify the behavior of geometry in this
workgroup:

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 Using the System

Workgroup Info dialog for Mill part Workgroup Info dialog for Lathe part
Choose Part Stock to use the geometry as a stock shape, or choose Part Geometry to specify that
geometry in the workgroup is used to define the part.
Part Stock
If Part Stock is selected, the geometry in the workgroup will be used for any calculations that
need to look at the stock dimensions, such as Auto Clearance and Material Only. The
geometry can be used as the starting stock condition in rendering and simulation, so long as
it is a closed shape. When used in this way, the stock shape can also be used in machining
operations to adjust the toolpath according to the amount of material to be removed based
on the stock shape.

Extruded geometry in Lathe workgroups is extruded along the depth.

Coordinate Systems
A coordinate system is a plane in space with an origin and three axes. Examples of different
coordinate systems are the XY, XZ and YZ planes. In addition to these primary planes, there are
a limitless amount of other planes that may be defined. Geometry can be defined using these
other planes with the Advanced CS module. The following image is an example of three
different coordinate systems. The circle in each coordinate system is at the same horizontal,
vertical and depth position relative to each coordinate system.

Geometry is not contained in a coordinate system the way it is with workgroups. The
coordinate system used to define geometry, can be thought of as an attribute of the geometry

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and its orientation to the rest of the part. Geometry can be moved in and out of coordinate
systems as needed.
Coordinate systems are used for 3D geometry creation, rotary part orientation for machining,
multiple work fixture offsets and as a basis for solid modeling. Fully understanding coordinate
systems is vital to using the Advanced CS and SolidSurfacer modules. Coordinate systems are
only available in the Level 2 interface.

Coordinate System List

Similar to the Workgroup list is the Coordinate System list. The Coordinate System list provides
access to controlling the coordinate systems. When a new part is made there is only one
coordinate system in the list, the XY plane for mill parts and the XZ plane for lathe parts.
Additional coordinate systems are created by clicking on New CS. The current coordinate system
is highlighted. The “eyes” on the left side of the list show and hide the coordinate systems. The
name of the CS may be changed by clicking on the entry in the Comment column. The CS list
also contains entries for specifying which spindle the CS is assigned to (MTM only) and
specifying which Work Fixture Offset the CS maps to (requires Advanced CS). Clicking on
column title will sort the CS list.

Coordinate System Palette

When a coordinate system is created, it is automatically made to be identical to the current
coordinate system. The coordinate system palette allows you to redefine the new coordinate
system’s orientation, change its origin, toggle its depth axis or quickly align it to one of the
primary planes.

Creation of 3D Bodies
Three dimensional bodies, either solid bodies or sheet bodies, may be used in addition to or in
place of geometry for a part model. The process of solid modeling involves using graphically
disjunct objects (solids and sheets) and combining, modifying and manipulating them to create
the final part model. The process of solid modeling starts with the creation of a simple body
referred to as an atomic or primitive body. Examples of an atomic body include a sphere, a
cube, a revolved or extruded 2D shape, etc.

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 Using the System

The basic operations, often referred to as Boolean operations, are to add, subtract or intersect
these simple bodies to create a new, distinct body. Each time a Boolean operation is performed
the result is always a single object. In this way, solid modeling allows the user to work with
single objects rather than hundreds of surfaces.
Solid modeling capabilities are accessed through the Solid Modeling icon in the Command
Toolbar. Clicking this button brings up a palette that contains the basic Boolean functions and
buttons to open the two solids sub-palettes. The two sub-palettes are the Create Solid palette and
the Advanced Solid Modeling palette.

1. Create Solid
6. Add
2. Advanced Models
7. Subtract
3. Slice
8. Intersection
4. Swap
9. Separate
5. Replace

The solids sub-palettes provide access to the creation of primitive solid bodies and the
modification of primitive bodies. A primitive body is an original solid, created from a geometry
profile or text input in a dialog describing the solid. Primitive bodies are the basis for creating
solid models. The functions to create a primitive solid are found in the Create Solid palette.

1. Sphere
5. Loft
2. Cuboid
6. Sweep
3. Extrude
7. Solidify
4. Revolve

The Advanced Solid Modeling palette provides access to non-basic Boolean functions that may
be applied to bodies. This includes rounding corners and offsetting or shelling a body.

1. Offset/Shell
2. Round Corner
3. Unstitch Body/Heal
4. Draft

Surfaces can also be created by the 3D modeler. The modeler creates an object called a
sheet. A sheet is similar to a solid body in that it is made up of faces. A face is a single surface.
However, a sheet does not have any volume the way a solid does. A sheet is only made up of
faces, whereas a solid is composed of the faces as well as the space enclosed by the faces. One
way to think of it is that a sheet is similar to an infinitely thin gauge balloon while a solid body
is more like a bowling ball.

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 Using the System

1. Plane 6. Sheet From Face

2. Revolve 7. Trim / Un-Trim
3. Loft 8. Stitch
4. Coons Patch 9. Unstitch
5. Sweep 10. Untrim & Extend Surface

Creating Solids Example

The following three images show a very simple example of making a solid beyond primitive
bodies. In the first image we have a simple cube made from the Cuboid button in the Create
Solid palette. The second image shows four primitive bodies, two spheres and two tapered
extrusions. The spheres were created from the Sphere button (also found in the Create Solid
palette). The tapered extrusions were created from the Extrude button in the Create Solid
palette along with selected geometry. The selected geometry provided the filleted corner shape
to apply the extrusion to. The third image shows the result of subtracting the spheres and
extrusions from the cuboid. The Subtraction button found in the Solid Modeling palette was
used for this operation.

Example of making a solid model beyond primitive bodies.

Workgroups and Coordinate Systems in Solids

Solids and sheets are not contained in workgroups. They are either drawn in the Workspace or
placed in the Body Bag. The Body Bag is a small window where bodies are stored to minimize
clutter. Bodies are assigned a coordinate system based on the current CS when the body was
created. Some of the modeling functions such as extrusions and revolved bodies are CS-specific,
meaning that the current coordinate system is used to create the body. Other modeling
functions, such as lofting, are not dependent on the current CS.

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Tool Creation
Quick How-To (Tool Creation)
Defining a tool is easy. Simply follow these steps.

1. Clicking the Tool List button in the Command palette will open the Tool List.
2. Double-click a tile in the Tool List.
3. Select the tool type from the matrix of buttons.
4. Define the tool’s size through text entry or pull-down menus.
5. Specify tool orientation.
6. Specify Tool Stick out of Holder and Cutter Compensation.
7. Select the tool's material from the dropdown menu.
8. Select Spindle direction.
9. Add a comment if required.
10. Close the dialog or double-click on another tile (empty or full) to save the tool.

Tool Creation Dialogs

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 Using the System

By double-clicking in an empty tile a new tool is created and a Tool dialog opens. A tool is
then fully defined within the tool window. This includes, but is not limited to, the type of tool
and its size and material. Only one Tool window may be open at a time. The Tool dialog can be
re-sized by clicking and dragging on the margin.
All Tool Creation dialogs have common elements, including a matrix of tool types, a graphic of
the tool, a method to specify the tool’s dimensions and material, spindle direction and offset
settings. Additionally, all of the Tool dialogs have a Comment box. This comment will be output
in the finished code at the beginning of every operation that uses the tool. An example of each
of the various Tool Creation dialogs follows.

1. Tool Type
2. Tool Diagram
3. Holder Diagram
4. Holder Specifications
5. Length out of holder
6. Tool length offset #
7. CRC Offset #
8. Tool Material
9. Tool ID #
10. Tool Comment

Mill Tool Creation dialog

The Lathe Tool Creation dialog has numerous options to describe an insert. In addition to the
elements common to the Tool Creation dialogs, the Lathe Tool dialog has a tab to switch back
and forth between mill & lathe tools, and a diagram to specify the insert’s orientation. The Other
checkbox allows the user to set up a custom insert. For more information, see the "Tool
Creation" section of the Lathe guide.

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1. Tool Type
2. Insert Type
3. Insert Specifications
4. Insert Orientation
5. Tool Holder Definition
6. Tool Options
7. Tool Setup Data

Lathe Tool Creation dialog

The Mill/Turn and Multi-Task Machining options slightly modify the Mill Tool dialog, adding
several elements from the Lathe Tool dialog and a Tool Orientation Diagram. The Tool
Orientation Diagram allows the tool’s axis of approach as well as the face to be cut to be
specified.

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 Using the System

1. Tool Type
2. Tool Orientation
3. Tool Setup data

Mill/Turn Tool Creation dialog

Tool List

Tool Lists can contain both milling and turning tools at the same time. Each tool has a unique
graphic to help you quickly determine what each tool is. Clicking on another tile while a tool
dialog is open will close the current tool dialog, saving your changes.

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 Using the System

The Tool List is accessed from the Tool button in the Command palette. The list can contain a
maximum of 999 tools per part. The tool tiles do not have to be contiguous; there can be empty
spaces between tiles.
To navigate through the Tool Tiles, click on any part of the Tool List to select it. Use Ctrl+the
mouse wheel to scroll through multiple tiles at a time. The Process and Operations Lists
described in the following sections can also be navigated in this manner. To index through the
various tools that have been created, click on the scroll arrows located at the top and bottom of
the Tool List. Tools can be reorganized in the list at any time, even after operations have been
created, without reprocessing the operations. To reorganize the order of tools, click once on
the Tool tile to be moved and drag it to an insertion point. The system will automatically adjust
the operations to reflect the change in tool order and number.
Tool specifications can be modified at any point during part creation. However, if operations
have been created using the tool, those operations must be reprocessed. To reprocess an
operation, double-click on the Operation tile in the Operation List, and click on the Redo
button. The new tool specifications will be incorporated into the new operation toolpath.

Dragging Multiple Tools

You can select multiple tools and drag the group to the Process List. The tools appear in the
Process List at the location you release the mouse button, whether the tiles are empty or
already contain machining functions. Any existing tools will be replaced. You can also insert the
tools between process tiles.
You can drag a tool or multiple tools to multiple process tiles.

To Select a Range of Tiles:

1. Select the first tile.

2. Hold down the Shift key and select the last tile in the range.

To Select Multiple Tiles:

1. Select the first tile.

2. Hold down the Ctrl key and select each tile you want to drag.

To Drag Multiple Tools to the Process List:

1. Select the tool tiles you want to drag. The tools are highlighted.
2. Drag the tools to the position in the Process List where you want the tools to appear and
release the mouse button. The top tile in the group will be inserted where the hand icon
is positioned and the mouse button released.

To Drag a Tool to Multiple Tiles in the Process List:

1. Select the process tiles you want to add the tool or tools. The process tiles are highlighted.
2. Select the tool or tools you want to use.
3. Hold down the ALT key, drag the tool or tools to the selected process tiles, and release
the mouse button.

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Tool List Context Menu

Right-click anywhere in the tool tile list to reveal this menu.

Move To:

You use the Move To option to move a tile to a specific position by

number or to move a tile to the last position in the list.

Find:

You use the Find option to locate a specific tile by number or jump to the
last tile. For operations, you can also search by tool number.

Sort tools
When selected, tools will be sorted by Tool Group and spaces will be inserted between tool
groups.

Save Selected Tools

This option saves the selected (highlighted) tools as a *.tlst file. (Use Click, navigate up/down,
Shift-click, to highlight a block of tool tiles, Ctrl-click to highlight individual tool tiles.) This can
also be done from within the Tool Manager dialog. Navigate to your desired directory, to make
it the default directory for saving and loading tool lists. Enter a filename and click the Save
button.

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Please note that in order to add tools to an existing file: Load the tool file, select all tools,
including the additional tools required, then resave the file, overwriting the old version. Tools
can also be deleted in a similar way.

Load Tools

1. Load Tool file

2. Load tools from ISCAR Tool
Advisor or other tool library
3. Search for Tool file

1. Tools can be loaded from a previously saved tool list *.tlst file. This is a list previously
saved using the Save Selected Tools option.
Saved Tool lists can be added to any part file using the Load tools command or alternatively
tools can be loaded into the process creation tool selection dialog as shown above.
2. Tools can be loaded from an ISCAR Tool Advisor or similar *.xml file.
3. Use the search facility to search for specific tool sizes within the existing tool tiles. Simply
start typing a tool size and select the exact size from the dropdown list.

Tool Manager:
For more information see Common Reference Guide.
Small/Large Icons
Choose the display size of all toolbar icons.

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Tool Manager
The Tool Manager provides an expanded view of the Tool List in a tabular format. Each column
contains a parameter type and each row contains a tool. The list is customizable and can be
sorted, saved and printed.
For more details on the manager capabilities see the Common Reference Guide.

Process Creation
To create a Process, you need to select a Process type and a Tool.
The machining Palette displayed will vary depending on the MDD you have specified in the
DCD dialog.
A part that references a machine capable of Turning offers a Machining palette with Lathe
Contouring, Roughing, Threading, and Drilling tiles.
A part that references a machine capable of Milling offers a Machining palette with Mill
Drilling, Contouring, Pocketing, and Threading tiles. If SolidSurfacer is installed on your
system, the Mill machining palette also offers a Surfacing tile and local stock definition buttons.
If you have other options, other controls also appear.

Lathe Machining Palette and Mill Machining Palette

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Note: The processes that appear on the palette depend on which product options are licensed
and active. They also vary according to the Machine Definition Document (MDD) associated
with the Machine type currently specified in the Document Control dialog.
When the machine is capable of both milling and turning operations, its Machining palette has
two dropdown sections. These dropdowns display the Lathe and Mill Machining options
available for the MDD in use, providing access to both types of machining in one palette.

Creating a Process
A process is defined by a tool and a machining function. To create a process, double-click a
Process Tile. Select a process Type from the options available for your machine. Then, select a
Tool to use. Hover over a tool icon to display more tool information to confirm you have the
correct tool.
If you already know which Tool you wish to use, you can drag its tool tile onto an empty
Process Tile and then choose the machining type.

1. Double-
click an
empty 2. Choose a Process type. 3. Choose a tool type.
Process
tile.

The Process tile will now show the Machining type icon and the number of the tool selected.

Once these items are in place, the appropriate Process dialog will open. Clearance values, cut
depth, speeds and other items are filled out in the Process dialog. The actual Process dialog will
vary depending on the type of machining function chosen. Roughing, Contouring, Drilling,

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Threading and Surfacing Process dialogs are different from each other, with many common
elements such as the Entry/Exit Diagram. For detailed information see the Mill and Lathe
guides.

Lathe and Mill Process dialogs

Applying the Same Machining Function to Multiple Processes

You can quickly apply the same machining function to multiple processes: The machining
function is applied to all selected process tiles, and a dialog opens for the first-selected process
tile.

To apply the same machining function to multiple processes:

1. Select the process tiles you want to change.

2. ALT-double-click the machining tile you want to apply or ALT-drag the machining tile to
the Process List.

Clearing the Process List

You should delete or modify Process tiles that you used to create previous operations and before
you create a new set of operations. When you click the Do It or Redo button, all of the Process
tiles in the Process list are used to create operations, even if operations have already been
created using those tiles. You should delete the Process tiles after you create the operations to
ensure that you do not unintentionally create duplicate operations. Clicking the Clear button
deletes all the Processes in the Process list.

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Process List

The Process List can contain a maximum of 99 Process tiles. The Process tiles do not have to be
contiguous; there can be empty spaces between tiles. Please note that multiple processes can be
created in the same list. Any combination of machining functions can be grouped as needed.
Once operations are created, the processes can be thrown away, because the information from
the process is stored in the Operation.

Multiple Process Programming

If the Process list contains more than one Process tile when you click the button,
multiple operations are created. All these operations use the same geometry. When the finished
operations are placed in the Operations List, they are “linked.” When you double-click one
operation, all operations created with the same Process list are selected. This enables you to
change the geometry more easily. Linked operations can be moved around in the Process list
without losing the link. A typical use for multiple Processes is roughing and finishing the same
shape with the same or different tools.

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1. Drilling Processes
2. Roughing Process
3. Contouring Process
4. Threading Process

If multiple Process tiles of the same type are used in the same Process list, each tile is applied to
the selected geometry. For example, you can use three drilling processes to drill, tap, and
counter-bore the same points or circles. Three separate operations are created to perform each
of these functions.
When multiple Process tiles of different types are used in the same Process list, the effect of
each process changes, depending on the other processes in the Process list. If a drilling process
is combined with a roughing or contouring process, the drilling process drills entry holes for
the other process. If a contouring process is combined with a roughing process, the contouring
process performs a finish pass around the wall of all selected pockets and bosses.
When multiple operations are created from the same Process list, they are linked. Double-
clicking on a linked Operation tile selects all of the other operations created by the same
Process list. The Process list is rebuilt and the geometry is reselected. The link is preserved even
if the operations are reorganized in the Operations list.

Process List Context Menus

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Right-click the process list and select the item you want from the menu. In addition to
Find and Process Manager you can select:

Change Process/Tool
Change the Process Type or Tool used for the current process.

Open Tool
Opens the tool dialog of the current process.

Move To:

You use the Move To option to move a tile to a specific position by

number or to move a tile to the last position in the list.

Find:

You use the Find option to locate a specific tile by number or jump to the last
tile. For operations, you can also search by tool number.

Save/ Load Process File

Process lists can be saved to a .prc2 file for reuse.

Process Manager:
See Tool Manager.
Small/Large Icons
Choose the display size of all toolbar icons.

Process Manager
The Process Manager provides an expanded view of the Process List in a tabular format. Each
column contains a parameter type and each row contains a process. The list is customizable
and can be sorted, saved and printed.
For more details on the manager capabilities see the Common Reference Guide.

Operations
A single operation consists of toolpath, clearances, tool information, feeds & speeds, and
coolant choices. It is a visualization of G-code and will be used as the source of the G-code sent
to a CNC.

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Operations are made from a GibbsCAM process. A process is the combination of a tool and a
machining function (roughing, contouring, drilling) applied to geometry or solids. Processes are
used to specify all of the operation’s settings.
1. The first step to creating operations is to have the part model defined along with a list of
tools to cut the part.

2. You then click on the Cam button in the Command Toolbar to open the Process and
Operation Lists.
3. Double-click a process tile to create a Process. This will open a window where you can
choose a process type and then a suitable tool. Finally, a dialog will open to set the
operation’s parameters.

4. You then select the geometry or solid that is to be machined and click the Do It
button above the process tile list. This will create the toolpath for an operation. Repeat this
process until the part is complete.
5. Finally run Cut Part Rendering to check the part.

1. Tools
2. Stock
3. Geometry
4. Toolpath
5. Operations
6. Processes
7. CAM Palette

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Parameters

The components of operations

Defining the Cut Shape

After you complete the Process dialog, you must define a cut shape. The cut shape is the
geometry to which the process is applied.
For contouring and roughing functions, you must select geometry to use as the cut shape for
the operation. For roughing operations, you must select at least one closed shape for pocketing
or stock shape for face milling. For engraving operations, you can select multiple shapes for the
cut shape.
For contouring operations where you are machining a single shape, the cut shape is defined
with Machining Markers.
Machining Markers indicate the portions of the geometry to use as the cut shape when creating
a toolpath. The markers appear when you select the geometry. Drag the machining markers to
the locations you want on the geometry. Machining Markers are not used for drilling and
threading functions.
For more detailed information see the "Machining Markers" section in your Mill or Lathe Guide.

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Process becomes Operation

An operation is automatically created by entering the desired parameters in the

Process dialog, selecting the geometry or solid to be machined and then clicking the
Do It button.

(The Do It button is available in the workspace in a translucent dialog, from the Title bar of the
Process dialog and also by right-clicking anywhere in the workspace.)
This will generate one or more operations and toolpath.

A process, selected geometry, and the results of clicking the Do It button.

Clicking the Do It button applies the processes defined in the list to the selected geometry,
creating as many operations as needed. Operation tiles are created and appear in the
Operations List. A pocket might contain an entry hole process followed by roughing, finishing
and possibly back boring in one process group.

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If any completed Operation tiles are highlighted in yellow, the Redo button is also available. If
you make changes to the information in the Process list, click the Redo button to replace the
operations in the list with the new operations.
Operations contain the finished toolpaths. A toolpath consists of the actual moves the tool will
make. The toolpath is based on the cut shape. The post processor uses the operation data to
generate G-code.
Be sure to deselect the Operations so that you do not make unintentional changes. To deselect
Operation tiles, select an empty tile location or an insertion point between locations.

Operations List

The Operations List and its context menu

The software will use the list of operations to generate the final program that is sent to the
CNC machine. Operation tiles can not be moved away from the Operation List. They can be
sorted and reordered. To edit an operation’s process information, double-click on the operation
and it will be loaded back to the Process List. Clicking the Redo button will update the changes.
There may be a maximum of 16,000 operations in a part. The Operation tiles do not have to be
contiguous; there may be empty spaces between tiles.
The Operation tiles have a contextual menu, accessed by right-clicking on a tile. The menu
contains a number of commands that can be applied to an operation or its toolpath. The
normal Find and Move options are also included. Modifications may be made to the tile’s

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location in the list, a search may be performed or changes may be made to the actual toolpath.
This includes changing speeds at specific points in the toolpath, accessing the tool used for the
operation, converting the toolpath to geometry and locking data in the operation. Locking data
and changing specific information about an operation can be accomplished using the Operation
Data dialog. See Operation Data.

Operation List Context Menu

The Operation List provides the following context menu for finding, managing, and modifying
operations :

Operation tile context menu

Right-click anywhere in the operation list and select the functions you want from the
menu. You can select the following:

Operation Data:
Displays the Operation Data dialog. See Operation Data.

Utility Markers:
Displays the Utility Markers dialog and the toolpath for the current operation. You can edit
various position-dependent toolpath data. See "Utility Markers" in the Mill or Lathe guides.

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Open Tool:
Displays the tool dialog associated with that operation.

Operation To Geometry:
Converts the highlighted operation’s toolpath to geometry. This geometry can then be modified
as needed and a center cut contour operation can be applied to it. This applies to contouring,
roughing and surfacing operations. This may be useful for avoiding clamps and fixtures or
editing a pocket or profile’s toolpath for individual preferences.

Redo Selected Operations:

Selecting this option regenerates the toolpath for any selected (highlighted) operation.

Redo All Operations:

Selecting this option regenerates the toolpath for all operations.

Move To:

You use the Move To option to move a tile to a specific position by

number or to move a tile to the last position in the list.

Find:

You use the Find option to locate a specific tile by number or jump to the
last tile. For operations, you can also search by tool number.

Sort Operations:
Reorganizes all operations in the Operations List by tool number and creation order, from
lowest to highest tool number. See “Sorting Operations” on page 60.

Please be aware that sorting operations can be risky. For example, you could
potentially tell the system to tap a hole before it is drilled. Please be sure to review the
results of the sort to ensure you get the results you want.

Operation Manager:
Displays the Operation Manager.
Small/Large Icons
Choose the display size of all toolbar icons.

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Operation Manager
The Operation Manager provides an expanded view of the Operation List in a tabular format.
Each column contains a parameter type and each row contains an operation. The list is
customizable and can be sorted, saved and printed.
For more details on the manager capabilities see the Common Reference Guide.

Operation Data
You can edit various operation specifications in the Operation Data dialog. You can change and
lock values in the Operation Data dialog when multiple operations are created from a single
Process tile. You can change certain specifications for one operation without changing them for
all the operations that were created with the same Process tile. In Milling, for example, if
multiple pockets are machined from one Process tile, a separate operation is created for each
pocket. If an Entry or Exit Clearance Plane needs to be changed to avoid a clamp between two
of the pockets, you can change the clearance values in the Operation Data dialog for one of the
operations. The clearance values of the other roughing operations are not affected.
The Operation Data dialog also allows for overrides of certain items such as speeds and
entry/exit settings. More importantly is text that can be output in the G-code that is operation-
specific and the ability to lock values by clicking on the padlock icons. If the part is opened on
another machine with different speed and feed data the original settings will not be
unintentionally overwritten. Unlocking these settings will allow changes to the operation. For
additional information, see Mill and Lathe guides.
Mori Seiki (and others) have the capability for performing lathe turning operations that use a
mill-like tool that spins. In order to mark an operation as being a mill op but with the part
turning (for lathes, millturns, and MTM), enter spinning_mill in the Op Comment section of
the Operation Data dialog. This will also ensure that the part will be rendered correctly and is
also a requirement for Post Processing.

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 Using the System

Mill dialog Lathe dialog

Lock button:
Locked items ( ) retain the values entered in this dialog even if the operation is reprocessed.
Unlocked items ( ) return to their original values if the operation is reprocessed. Changes that
affect the toolpath appear in the toolpath drawing and the rendered image. The information in
the process tile that created the operation is modified to reflect the changes made in
this dialog. If an operation contains one or more locked values, a small lock symbol
appears on the Operation Tile.

To lock or unlock a value:

Click the graphical button next to the right of the control to toggle its state between “locked”(
) or “unlocked”( ).
Rotate button:
Click the Rotate button to set rotate options.

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 Using the System

Program Stop:
The Program Stop checkbox is only available in the Operation Data dialog. If selected, a program
stop command is added at the end of the operation in the posted output. The default position is
off.
Op Comment:
Information entered in the Op Comment text box appears in the posted output before the
selected operation it refers to. You can also enter Utility Data in this dialog.
At Op Start and At Op End:
You can use these text boxes to pass custom commands that trigger actions inside the post
processor. The list of custom commands and their actions should be supplied to you with the
documentation for your custom post.
Also, in these text boxes, any text string enclosed between simple straight quotes (either "..." or
'...') will appear as a text string in the posted output. Other types of quotemarks, such as “ ” ‘ ’
« » 「」『』, do NOT act as text delimiters. In the posted output, each such quoted text string is
inserted on a new line.
If utility data is entered in the Utility Data At Op Start text box, then a small square appears on the
Operation tile in the upper left hand corner. If utility data is entered in the Utility Data At Op End
text box, then a small square appears in the lower left hand corner of the Operation tile. If
operations contain locked values, then a small lock symbol appears on the Operation tile.

1. Contains At Op Start data

2. Contains locked values
3. Contains At Op End data

Operation Modifiers
When you change an operation by means of a plug-in, such as Transform Toolpath or HSM >
Change Feeds and Speeds , the change is lost when the operation is regenerated. Operation
Modifiers are slightly different, because they let you preserve the instructions you provide for
changing toolpath. Each time the operation is regenerated by Redo, all operation modifiers are
re-applied.

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Using Operation Modifiers

Right-click an operation and choose Operation Modifiers, the Manage Modifiers dialog presents a
list of operation modifiers. The left pane shows all modifiers available for the operation type;
the right pane shows all that have been assigned to the selected operation.
Each time you add a modifier, its modifier dialog appears. The parameter settings for most
modifier dialogs are the same as for the corresponding plug-in, except for the omission of
controls for selecting operations or creating new operations. You can add multiple instances of
some modifiers, such as Change Feeds and Speeds. Others, such as 5-Axis Toolpath Conversion, can
be added only once.
In the list of assigned modifiers, you can change the order in which they are applied, and you
can disable or enable one or more modifiers. Click the Edit button (or double-click the
modifier) to view or edit parameter settings.
When you click Do It, the operation is modified: The operation tile is marked with a plus sign
(+) in its lower left corner, and the corresponding toolpath is regenerated.
You can combine multiple Operation Modifiers, but you need to exercise caution applying two
(or more) modifiers that both change toolpath. The general guideline is: Use common sense.
Some specific caveats are noted below.

Notes for Using Operation Modifiers

l For detailed information on any particular operation modifier, see the Plug-Ins guide.
Operation modifiers are like plug-ins in most respects, except that they persist and are re-
applied each time the operation is regenerated.
l Operation modifier data is stored with each operation, not with the process or process
group. For example, if a process group is associated with three operations, applying a
modifier to the second operation has no effect on the first or third.
l You cannot save modifiers independently of the operation. You cannot copy or transfer
modifiers from one operation to another.

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l Modifiers are applied sequentially, without inter-modifier communication: The ending

state of modifier n is the starting state of modifier n+1. Therefore, the toolpath could
change significantly if the same set of modifiers were to be stacked in a different order.
l Clicking CAM palette button Redo preserves existing modifiers, but clicking CAM palette
button Do It does not; it creates one or more new operations without copying modifiers.
l Do not combine a conversion modifier (such as 5-Axis Toolpath Conversion or Convert to
Trochoidal) with any other modifier, except to follow it with Change Feeds and Speeds or
Transform Toolpath.

Modifying Operations
Changes can be made to Operations in the following ways:
To recreate operation Processes:
Double-click the Operation tile in the Operations List. The Process tiles are recreated.
Geometry is selected and any machining markers are repositioned as they were when the
operation was processed. Any operations created from the same Process List as the selected
operation are selected.
To replace selected operations:
1. In the Operation List, double-click the operation you want to replace.
The operation tiles associated with the operation highlight and the corresponding processes
appear in the Process List.
2. In the process List, double-click the tile for the process you want to change.
The Process dialog appears.
3. Type the information or select the option you want to change.

4. Click the Redo button. Selected operations are replaced with the modified operations.
This is useful when multiple operations are created from a single Process tile because you can
make changes to one operation without changing the other operations created from the same
process. For more information, see Operations List.
To change an operation:

1. Right-click the Operation tile and select Operation Data.

2. Change or lock values, such as clearance planes and feeds and speeds.
3. Close the Operations dialog
To reprocess all operations in a part file:

From the Edit menu, select Redo All Ops . The system recalculates all of the toolpaths and
positioning moves based on the new order of operations.

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 Using the System

To reorganize operations by tool number and creation order:

Select Sort . The operations sort by tool number and creation order.
You can also manually rearrange the Operation List by moving tiles to different locations in the
list.
The order of machining in the finished NC program corresponds to the order of the operations
in the Operation List. Therefore, the order of Operation tiles in the Operation List is very
important.
Efficient use of multiple process programming may produce operations in a less-than-optimal
machining order. You can reorganize the Operation List to create a more optimal machining
order. However, consider the following when reordering operations. When using the Auto
Clearance option or the Material Only option, the system takes into account the material
conditions when it creates the positioning moves and toolpath for each operation.
Changing the order of operations can change the initial material conditions for existing
operations. If you change the order of operations, add operations, or remove operations from
the list, be sure to check the toolpaths and positioning moves. Render the part to check for tool
interference, unnecessary moves, or incorrect positioning moves. If adjustments are necessary,
you must reprocess the operations.
Reprocessing all operations in a part file is very easy using the Redo All Ops item under the Edit
menu. When the operations are reprocessed, the system recalculates all of the toolpaths and
positioning moves based on the new order of operations.

Sorting Operations
To sort operations:
Right-click a tile in the Operations List or a row in the Operation report and select Sort
Operations .

The Sort Operations function reorganizes all operations in the Operations List. Sorting first looks
at CS's and splits the Operations within the CS block. It then reorganizes the operations by tool
number and creation order, from lowest to highest tool number. Next it looks at the following
block of Operations on the same CS, etc. The system examines all the operations and tries to
group them by tool number to minimize the number of tool changes. Any blank spaces in the
Operations List are removed.

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Before Sort After Sort

Operations created in a Process Group (a group of processes to machine the same geometry)
are sorted based on their order in the Process List when they were created. For example,
finishing operations are not placed before the roughing operations in a Process List. You can
manually reorganize operations by dragging them to the location you want in the Operations
List. The order of machining in the finished NC program is the same as in the Operations List.
Therefore, the order of tiles in the Operations List is very important. You can organize
operations anytime during the programming of the part.

Please be aware that sorting operations can be risky. For example, you could
potentially tell the system to tap a hole before it is drilled. Please be sure to review the
results of the sort to ensure you get the results you want.

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Multi-Level Sort
Selecting the Multi-Level Sort… command opens a dialog where you can select up to four columns
you want to use as sort criteria. Check the Ascending checkbox to sort in ascending order,
unchecked will sort in descending order.

Printing the Toolpath

After an operation has been created, the resulting toolpath can be printed. The Printing
Preferences section of the Preferences>Display Tab specifies how the system will handle the
background color and line contrast. You can choose to print black and white, full color or color
on a white background. When the desired toolpath is on the screen, choose Drawing from the
Peripherals sub-menu in the File Main menu dropdown.

Cut Part Rendering

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 Using the System

Cut Part Rendering is the process of running a visual inspection of the operations you’ve
created. Rendering steps through each operation, displaying the movement made by each tool
as it cuts the part. Once you have one or more operations you can render the part for a visual
inspection. This can be very helpful in catching any errors in the toolpath. Rendering is
accessed by clicking the Sim button in the Command Toolbar. For more information on CPR
see the section on Rendering in the Common Reference guide.

Post Processing
After operations to machine the part are created and verified, the file needs to be post
processed. Post Processing creates a text file (NC Program) that can be transferred to the
machine control, from a part file (a VNC file). Post Processors specific to particular machine
controls are used to create the text file from the VNC file. This is all accomplished in the Post
Processor dialog. The Post Processor dialog is accessed by clicking on the Post Processor button
in the Commands palette.
Posting a part is very easy. Once the dialog is open, simply select a Post Processor to use, give
the posted G-Code a name, set any parameters desired and click on Process. Once the G-code is
written, you can send the output to the control.

1. Post Processor Selection

2. Program Name
3. Communications
4. Text Window
5. Output
6. Multiple Parts

The Post Processor dialog

Posting Step-By-Step
The following set of instructions will walk you through Post Processing a part file.
1. The first time you use a version of GibbsCAM, you should set your posting preferences. The
Post Processor Comments preference allows you to specify comment data that is output in the
NCF file generated by the system. If an item is checked, that data will be output. This dialog

can be found in the File menu under Preferences . This only needs to be done the first
time you use a version but you can change it for each program if that is your choice.

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2. Select a post processor.

Clicking on the Post Processor Selection button will bring up an Open dialog. Navigate to
where you keep your Post Processors, select the file and click on Open. That sets the post
selection for the part.

3. Name the program.

Clicking on the Program Name button will bring up a Save dialog. Navigate to where you
keep your posted output files, name the file and click on Save. That creates a NCF file for the
code that is to be generated.

4. Set any desired output options.

There are a number of options you may set in the Output and Multiple Parts sections of the
Post Processor dialog. You may specify the number of parts being created, use work fixture

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offsets or a specific spacing as well as post only certain operations, output or suppress
comments and insert optional stops.

5. Open the Text window.

If you have not specified a Post Editor to use for the output from the Plug-Ins menu and wish
to view the code, open the Text window by clicking on the Text window button. This opens
a fly-out window to the side which is designed to view the posted code as it is being
generated. If you have selected a Post Editor or do not wish to view the code as it is being
generated, you may skip this step.

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6. Click on Process.

Clicking on Process will generate the code to be sent to the control. If you have selected a
Post Editor to use from the Plug-Ins menu, the code will be displayed in the application after
it is generated. This may take a few minutes for large programs, so do not be surprised if the
application does not open immediately.

7. Save the file.

Once the code is generated, save the file by clicking on Save or use the Save option from the
File menu of the Post Editor application you have selected.

8. Send the file to the control.

Once the code is generated you may send the NCF file to the control if you have set your
Communication preferences. Click on the Communication button to open the
Communication window. The name of the NCF file you have saved should be visible next to
the Program button. Click on Send to send the posted output to the control.

1. Send File
2. Receive File
3. Program Selection
4. Control Selection
5. Send/Receive/Stop
6. Progress Bar

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The Com Set-Up preference allows you to specify how communications are handled to
individual controls. An entry should be made for each type of control in the shop. The name
may be anything—the model of the control, the name of the machine or anything else.

Post Processor dialog

The Post Processor button in the Command Toolbar becomes active once machining
operations have been created in a file. Clicking on the Post Processor button will display the
Post Processor dialog shown below. This dialog allows the user to select a post processor, a
program name, format of the output, and also to select multiple parts.
The Process button will generate the NC program for the file currently open. The text file will be
saved under the file name displayed to the right of the Program Name button. If a file with that
name already exists the system will ask if you want to replace the existing file. If yes, clicking
the Process button will erase the old file and replace it with the new one. To view the text file as

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it processes, click on the Text Window button. When this button is depressed, a window will
appear that displays the posted text file as it is created. The program will scroll by in the
window as it is being generated. The Pause button allows the user to stop the scrolling of the
output as it is being processed. The Print button will be available after the program file is
finished processing.

Before posted output can be generated, the post processor and program file name must be
specified. When a file is post processed, a text file is created with the extension specified in the
Post text box in the File Extensions dialog. By default this extension is set to *.NCF. A file can be
post processed multiple times and saved with different *.NCF file names. If changes are made to
the part file, it must be post processed again in order to incorporate the changes into the posted
output. As a default, the text file uses the part file name with an *.NCF extension (e.g.
EXAMPLE1.NCF). This file name can be changed by clicking on the Program Name button and
entering a new name.

1. Post Processor Selection

2. Program Name
3. Communications
4. Text Window

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 Using the System

To specify an output file name for the finished program, click on the Program Name button. The
system will automatically add the extension specified in the File Extension dialog. Selecting File
Extension from the Preferences submenu in the File menu will display the File Extension dialog
shown below.
To select the post processor, click the Post Selection button. An Open dialog will appear that
allows the user to access the directory or folder where the post processors are stored in the
system.
The actual file names of the post processors are different depending on the operating system.
However, when selecting a post processor, the full name (including the Control and Machine)
will be displayed in the Open dialog.
Posted Output Format
The items in the top box of the Post Processor dialog shown below change the format and
content of the finished output. Each item can react differently with different post processors.
Below is a description of the effect they will have with most post processors.
Selected Ops
Checking this item will cause the output to only include operations that are currently
selected in the Operations list. Items that are unselected will not be output.
Starting Program Number
This is the number of the program as it will appear in the control. It is also the starting
number for all sub-programs. If the Starting Program Number is one, the first sub-program will
be two, the second three, etc.
Sequence from
This is the starting number for the block numbers or “N” numbers. The by box determines
the increment.
Minimize
If this option is turned on, the post processor will only output block numbers on tool
change positions.
Insert Comments
This option will output information about each operation and tool used as well as file length.
If any additional comments have been entered by the user about tools or operations, they
will be output as well.
Insert Optional Stops at Tool Change Positions
If this option is on, the software will output a machine operator selectable program stop at
every tool change.
Multiple Parts
The bottom box of the dialog is only active when the Number of Parts text box contains a number
greater than one. The information entered in this box specifies how multiple parts will be
machined.
Number of Parts
The value entered in this text box designates how many parts will be machined at one time.
When the value is greater than one, the information in the bottom box becomes active and

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allows the user to enter information.

Offset Types
Choose whether the system determines the parts to be machined according to machine-
definable Work Fixtures, or are Equally Spaced according to user-specified X, Y, Z
increments.
If Work Fixtures is in effect, ensure that you have eliminated or minimized gaps in
numbering for work fixture offsets (WFOs) assigned to CS's, because the quantity of
WFOs output for each part will equal the highest Gibbs WFO number assigned to any
CS. (For example: If Work Fixtures is chosen, a part that has only one CS whose WFO
number is 15 will post out 15 WFOs.) If a CS that has no user-assigned WFO number is
used in a machining operation, then it is automatically assigned a WFO number based
on the its position within the CS list.
Tool Change Pattern
These option buttons specify how the parts will be machined. The One Part All Tools option
designates that each part will be machined in its entirety before moving to the next part.
The One Tool All Parts option designates that all consecutive operations using the same tool
will be performed on every part before changing the tool.
Inter-Part Move Type
These radio buttons are only available with the One Tool All Parts option. They specify the
position the tool will move to when going from one part to another, either to the tool Home
Position in Z (Full Up) or to the Exit Clearance Plane position entered in the Process dialog of
the different operations.

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 Communications

Communications
The system contains integrated communications. Third party communications packages can
also be used to communicate with CNC machines. Before data can be sent to the CNC
machine, the communication parameters need to be set up. To access the Com Set-Up tab

choose File > Preferences. This dialog is used to set up communication protocols needed for
sending a file to a control or receiving a file from the control. Different controls have different
protocols (parameters). Refer to the machine control manual for the necessary protocol
specifications.
• Protocols
• Communicating with a CNC

Protocols
Adding
To add a new protocol, type a new name and change the settings for the machine. Click the
Add button. The name will appear in the list.

Changing

To change a protocol, select it from the protocol list and modify the information. The changes

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are automatically saved.

Removing
To remove a protocol, select the protocol from the list and click the Remove button.

Communicating with a CNC

To send a file to or receive a file from a CNC machine, click the Communication button in the
Post Processor dialog.

Communication dialog
The File > Communication dialog is used to send or receive files to and from a CNC. You may
define the File type for the transmission, either a post (ASCII) or part file (binary).

1. Send Mode
2. Receive Mode
3. Program Name
4. Protocol Menu
5. Progress Bar

Sending a File to the Control

To send a file to the control: Ensure the Send Mode is on, choose the protocol, choose the file
with the Program Name button and click Send. Click the Stop button to cancel. The Progress
Bar indicates the status of the transmission.
Receiving a File from the Control
To receive a file from the control, open the Communication dialog from the Post Processor dialog
or from the File menu. The Receive Mode button should be depressed. Choose the correct
protocol from the Protocol pop-up menu. The name of the received program is specified by
clicking on the Program Name button. When everything is set correctly, click on the Receive
button, and then send the program from the control. If the Text Window is open from the Post
Processor dialog, the program will scroll by as it is received.

It is recommended that edited NCF files received back from the machine control be
saved under a different name than the original NCF file that was initially sent to the
control. That way if the original VNC file is reprocessed, it won't affect the edited NCF

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file. For example, a part file named SAMPLE.VNC is post processed and a text file
named SAMPLE.NCF is created. Changes are made to the program at the machine
control and the new file containing those changes is sent back and received at the
offline computer, but under the name SAMPLE1.NCF. If SAMPLE.VNC is reprocessed
again at a later date, it won't destroy the SAMPLE1.NCF file that contains the changes
that were made at the machine.

Sending Other .NCF Files

Any text file that matches the extension set in the Post text box in the File Extensions
Preference can be sent to the control. Refer to the Post Processing chapter for more
information on output file extensions.

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 Conventions

Conventions
GibbsCAM documentation uses two special fonts to represent screen text and keystrokes or
mouse actions. Other conventions in text and graphics are used to allow quick skimming, to
suppress irrelevancy, or to indicate links.

Text
Screen text. Text with this appearance indicates text that appears in GibbsCAM or on your
monitor. Typically this is a button or text for a dialog.
Keystroke/Mouse. Text with this appearance indicates a keystroke or mouse action, such as
Ctrl+C or right-click.
Code. Text with this appearance indicates computer code, such as lines in a macro or a
block of G-code.

Graphics
Some graphics are altered so as to de-emphasize irrelevant information. A “torn” edge signifies
an intentional omission. Portions of a graphic might be blurred or dimmed to highlight the
item being discussed. For example:

Annotations on a graphic are usually numbered callouts (as seen above), and sometimes include
green circles, arrows, or tie-lines to focus attention on a particular portion of the graphic.
Faint green borders that outline areas within a graphic usually signify an image map. In online
help or a PDF viewer, you can click a green-bordered area to follow the link.

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 Links to Online Resources

Links to Online Resources

Link URL Action / Description
Go http://www.GibbsCAM.com Opens the main website for GibbsCAM.

Opens a restricted website containing

materials available for download. Requires a
Go https://online.gibbscam.com
GibbsCAM Online Services account; to set up
an account, contact GibbsCAM Support.

Opens the website for the GibbsCAM Student

Go https://store.GibbsCAM.com
Store.

Opens a wiki containing documentation and

Go https://macros.GibbsCAM.com examples of GibbsCAM macros. Requires a
GibbsCAM account.

Opens a Knowledge Base article, Contour

Operations Using Thread Mill Tools, that
Go http://kb01.GibbsCAM.com
explains in detail the correct way to program
Contour processes using Thread Mill tools.

Runs your email client to create a new

Go mailto:[email protected] message addressed to the 3D Systems
Technical Support department for GibbsCAM.

Runs your email client to create a new

Go mailto:[email protected] message addressed to the 3D Systems
Registration department for GibbsCAM.

Runs your email client to create a new

Go mailto:[email protected] message addressed to the 3D Systems Sales
department for GibbsCAM.

Opens an external website that provides more

Go http://www.autodesk.com/inventor
information on Autodesk Inventor products.

Opens an external website that provides more

information on VoluMill Ultra High-
Go http://www.celeritive.com
Performance Toolpath (UHPT) from
Celeritive Technologies.

Opens an external website that provides more

Go http://www.predator-software.com information on a CNC editor and a virtual
CNC viewer from Predator Software, Inc.

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 Appendix

Appendix
Glossary
This glossary is intended to provide clarifications on terms and their usage throughout the
GibbsCAM guides. Some of the terms may, at first glance, appear common to the industry, but
many have specific meaning to GibbsCAM products.

2.5D Solids The 2.5D Solids module allows you to import and modify or create solid
models. The models can be pocketed and contoured without the use of
geometry.

Advanced CS The Advanced CS module extends the capabilities of the Production Mill
module. Advanced CS provides for the creation of multiple coordinate
systems for creating and machining geometry. Capabilities include 3D
geometry, 4th-axis and 5th-axis rotary positioning, tombstone machining,
and/or work fixture offsets.

Body A body is a term used for solid and sheet objects created by the system Each
body is a single object composed of faces and the area enclosed by the faces.
Bodies are used as the building blocks for creating part models.
A closed shape is a set of geometry that does not have a discernible start or
Closed Shape
end point. The shape is a loop.

Coordinate A coordinate system (CS) is a plane in space with an origin and three axes.
System The axes are the horizontal, vertical and depth axes. The standard
coordinate system is the XY plane (milling) or the ZX plane (turning). The
XY plane’s axes are the X (horizontal), Y (vertical) and the Z (depth) axis.
Other standard coordinate systems are the XZ and YZ planes. Non-standard
CSs are defined using horizontal, vertical, and depth axes, labeled as HVD.
An edge is a curve or line between two faces. A body must have two faces
Edge
connected at every edge.
A face is one surface of a body or sheet. Faces are surfaces that have
Face knowledge of the surfaces that surround them. For example, one side of a
cube would be considered a face. Each face is bounded by loops. A simple
face is surrounded by one loop.
Geometry Geometry Expert is a means of creating connected geometry through an
Expert interface that is similar to a spreadsheet.

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Half Point Term referring to entering a value for a single axis (X, Y, Z, etc.) when
creating geometry using Geometry Expert. Geometry Expert may only need
the dimension of a single axis to create a feature due to existing tangencies.
GibbsCAMsoftware presents three lists: Tool List, Process List, and
List Operation List. The Tool List contains all of the tools used to machine the
current part. The Process List contains temporary data that is used to define
operations. The Operation List contains final operations that machine a
part.
Loop A loop is a series of connected edges that outline a face.
Machining Markers are used when creating mill contour or lathe
Machining
operations. the Machining Markers specify start and end points, climb or
Markers
conventional cutting and the side of the geometry to cut.
(Machine Definition Document) The term MDD is used to describe the
MDD machine type used on the current part. Each item in the Document Control
dialog’s Machine Type menu is a separate MDD. MDDs include 3-axis, 4-axis,
and 5-axis mills and 2-axis or 3-axis lathes.

Modeling Modeling is the process of defining a part’s shape and dimensions on a

computer. Common types of modeling include wireframe modeling (both
2D and 3D), surface modeling, and solid modeling. Solid Modeling is the
method of defining a part as a solid object rather than as a wireframe or
collection of surfaces.
The Multi-Task Machining (MTM) module extends the capabilities of the
Multi-Task
Production Lathe module. MTM supports programming machines with
Machining
multiple spindles and multiple turrets.

Open Shape An open shape is a set of geometry that is not fully connected. There is a
definite start point and end point to the shape. The open shape may or may
not be terminated.
The origin is the center of a coordinate system. The origin’s location is H0,
Origin
V0, D0. It is where the axes meet.
Production refers to basic 2D GibbsCAM functionality, generally on a
Production module basis. For example, both the Mill and Lathe modules are Production
modules. Additionally, the Geometry Creation guide would be referred to as
a Production guide.

Sheet A sheet is the term used for surfaces created or imported by the system. A
sheet is an object composed of faces, but a sheet has no volume or
thickness. It is only composed of its own faces.

Solids Import Solids Import is a module that allows a user to import a solid model and
perform simple modifications to the model including geometry extraction.
All machining operations are performed upon extracted geometry.
SolidSurfacer SolidSurfacer is the segment of the GibbsCAM product which provides 3D

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solid model creation and the direct machining of 3D solids and sheets. The
SolidSurfacer module requires the Advanced CS module.
A tile is an entry in a list. There are Tool tiles, Process tiles and Operation
Tile
tiles. Double-click a tile to access its contents or set its parameters.

Utility Markers Utility Markers are manual overrides of the feedrates and other facets of
operations. Typically they are used to lower the feedrate when entering a
corner and speed up again once leaving a corner.
Vertex A vertex is the common endpoint of two edges.

Workgroup A workgroup can be thought of as a layer that separates groups of geometry.

This helps keep the Workspace uncluttered. Workgroups can also be used
to define custom stock based on the geometry in them.

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