In this Tips & Tricks Video, you will learn how to create a tool definition for a bull nosed end mill with a holder for use within TopSolid’Cam. The idea here is to show you a very fast way of creating a custom tool definition. This is a great way to get a custom tool definition into TopSolid quickly and efficiently.
The first thing you need to know is that there are quite a few different ways to get to the finish line with tool definitions in TopSolid. And the reason for this is that there are many companies with many different needs. This video focuses on a fast and efficient way of adding a custom tool definition to TopSolid.
Now, regardless of which way you use, they all have something in common. All of the tool definitions have to have their frames oriented a very specific way. This is very important because if you do not define your frames correctly, your tool will not function correctly.
Click on the image to enlarge
The image to the right will describe in detail how frames need to be located and oriented. As I mentioned above, it is critical that you define your frames correctly.
After you have created your frames, you will also need to create two (2) sketches. These sketches will be used to define the revolution profiles for the cutter and the holder. These profiles are used by TopSolid for collision checking and material updating.
The video below will walk you through the creation of everything from start to finish. For this video, I have assumed that you already have the models that you need. This video will include instruction on:
- Creation of the tool assembly
- Creation of the two frames needed
- Creation of the two sketches needed
- A walk through of the Tool Wizard command
- A test of the newly defined tool
