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If any of the parameters shown below are set, set the Direction parameter to 'Inside Out', as the tool cannot perform a helical or zigzag approach starting from the boundary.
Strategy - Select how the tool is to approach the work and start each level and region within the cycle.
Plunge - The tool will simply plunge feed to depth at the start point of the cycle.
Zigzag Ramp - The approach is a series of linear ramp moves into the material, alternating directions with each move. Each ramp move is at a specified Length and Angle (with respect to the XY plane). This is a good strategy for hard or semi-hard materials.
Helical Ramp - The tool approach is a spiral or helical move down into the material, specified by a Pitch and Radius. The helix is made up of a series of linear 3D moves. This is a good strategy for hard or semi-hard materials.
Lead In Fixed - The approach is a plunge feed down into the material at one or more specified points (used with pre-drilled holes). One point should be nominated for each region.
Adjust to Fit - If unchecked, the cycle does not attempt to produce a toolpath at any level where the approach move gouges the profile. If checked and EdgeCAM detects a gouge, the approach is altered. The type of alteration depends on which Approach Strategy was selected for the cycle. When the Strategy is Helical Ramp or Zigzag Ramp, the cycle reduces the zigzag length or helix radius to a value that avoids gouging. If the length is reduced below 10% of the tool diameter, the tool will simply plunge feed to depth at the cycle start position. When the Strategy is Fixed Lead In, if the nominated point is outside the region, the cycle simply plunge feeds to depth at the cycle start position.
Ramp
Angle - Specifies the angle between the ramp and the horizontal plane (minimum angle = 0.5 degrees).
Length - Specifies the length of the ramp move in the plan view (when no value is entered, this defaults to the tool diameter).
Helical
Radius - Specifies the radius of the helical move.
Pitch - Specifies the distance travelled in Z for one complete turn of the helix.
Step Angle - Specifies the angle between endpoints of the linear helix moves in plan view (when no value is entered, this defaults to 30°).
External Boss
These approach parameters are only available when the Areaclear Strategy is set to External Boss.
Angle In/Out - The angle the tool moves down the ramp.
Radius In/Out - The radius of the helical move (when no value is entered, this defaults to 90% of the tool diameter).
Length In/Out - The length of the ramp move in the plan view (when no value is entered, this defaults to the tool diameter).