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See also: Creating Surface Analysis Models
Use the Analysis Model command to create a surface analysis model to use with the Combination Finishing cycle. If you select Combination Finishing without having created an Analysis Model, the Analysis Model command is automatically started.
The Combination Finishing cycle is performed using an Analysis Model, which is generated from one or more selected surfaces. Please note that wrapped over surfaces may cause unexpected results.
The Analysis Model is dependent upon the current CPL of the machining sequence, and so is created as a Manufacturing Instruction. The cycle uses the Model to generate the containment boundaries used by the Parallel Lace and Z-Level Finishing cycles. A Combination Cycle cannot take place unless you can digitise a valid Model.
The Analysis Model data is referenced in the database as a new entity type. This maintains associativity with the part file and all surfaces selected to generate the model. The entity also holds relevant data such as density and colour. Each EdgeCAM part file (ppf) can create a number of Analysis Models, and these are typically stored in the folder \edge\cam\Analysis\. You can change this folder in the Analysis Model Folder parameter in the Surface tab of the Preferences (Options menu) command.
The Selection Strategy allows you to select all visible surfaces, digitise them individually or to specify a digitised window. Digitise Window has the benefit of containing the analysis model to a square area rather than to the extents of the selected surfaces.
The Resolution of the model can be set to Low, Medium, High or specify grid size. A high density gives a greater accuracy of model but takes longer to compute. 'High' does produce smoother and more accurate containment boundaries. If desired you may select the Specify Grid Size option, where the distance between the grid points can be entered directly. However, a warning will be issued if the overall density of the model is too large.
The analysis model forms a rectangular grid of points lying along the X axis of the CPL. The Grid angle can be used to tip the grid through the specified angle to better match the selected surfaces.
Please note that Granite models will not work with the
Combination Finishing cycle. The cycle is performed using an Analysis
Model, which is generated from one or more selected surfaces. When loading
Granite models there is no EdgeCAM surface generation, making analysis
model creation impossible.