Creating a custom endmill or editing a form mill

[dynamic.machine]

Is there any way to create an endmill with custom dimensions?  I have been able to create a form mill with the desired geometry, but can't use it as an endmill... "invalid tool type for milling".  Can your CAM developers add a 'shoulder diameter' option to the lollipop or slot mill?  I am trying to undercut a tapered wall with a lollipop mill and the clearances are pretty tight.  Would love to be able to accurately model the tool for simulation purposes.  Once a form mill is created, is there any way to trick Fusion into treating it as an endmill?

[Steinwerks]

Have you tried adding Shaft sections? Can you link the tool here so we can see what you're trying to create?

[dynamic.machine]

Thank you Neal...  Here is a link to the tool... http://www.harveytool.com/ToolTechInfo.aspx?ToolNumber=22832-C3

The picture shown is generic and doesn't represent the actual tool geometry.  I have attached a sketch with the dimensions.

I hadn't tried adding shaft sections until I read your reply... I have since tried adding a shaft and I am thoroughly confused on exactly how that works.

[Steinwerks]

Here's how I have it set up:

Unfortunately this still doesn't actually show up as a true lollipop mill with the ability to undercut. I'm not sure why, but perhaps @fonsecr or @cj.abraham could chime in? I know it's doable, as I have done it before, but I suspect something in the representation isn't working correctly.

Edit: I just noticed your definition thinks your tool is 0" in diameter. Try changing that to .5" and see if it will let you use the form tool then. I believe you've confused the CAM 

[Steinwerks]

Alright I imported the Harvey DXF (I miss the days when they just had a dimensioned drawing on their tool page) and defined at .5" it seems to work fine:

Edit: I've attached the file.

[dynamic.machine]

Thanks for taking the time to look into this for me.  How did you go about importing the dxf from Harvey?  Did you just use the dxf to create a form tool?  I opened up your .f3d file and copied the tool you created into the cam for the part I'm working on, but still get the "invalid tool type for milling" error.  I am trying to use it in both a 3d adaptive and 3d contour toolpath.  I recall reading somewhere that form mills can only be used on 2d paths... is that correct?  If so, I wonder if there is a way to trick Fusion into treating it as an endmill.  The shaft section example you sent earlier may work.  I will give it a try in the morning.  I really appreciate your help.

Thanks... Mike

[Steinwerks]

Ah, yes the form tool functionality is very limited unfortunately.

As far as importing the DXF, on the right-hand side of the tool bar under the Insert button you can insert a DXF as a sketch. I did use it to create the form mill.

[cj.abraham]

@Steinwerks To address your tool definition question, it looks like the shaft diameter of 0.5" and a lollipop diameter of 0.5" is creating a ball endmill. Try making the shaft diameter on the cutter tab smaller and then adjust the shaft segments accordingly.

[butch_berney]

I have a form mill created, but want to change it. I can't seem to find a way to change the profile once it is created though.

Can an existing form tool be changed?

The only way I can see how to do it is to create a new form mill. Not the end of the world, but it seems like that information should be editable somehow.

Thanks 🙂

[Anonymous]

Yes, I have found the form tool function to be useless.   Aside from creating more accurate simulations and looking pretty, a custom form tool is a waste of time. 

I would LOVE to be able to cut 3d geometry with the form tool profile.