Parametric O-Ring Groove Manufacturing Model

[jacob_hassen]

Hi Everyone,

I am working on a parametric file that will be used to test o-ring groove fit.  The idea is that I could change the parameters and regenerate the tool paths and it would automatically update to the new geometry. 

The adaptive clearing to get the OD of the shaft right was easy.  What has not been easy is getting an operation for the key seat cutter/slot mill to machine the o-ring groves.  I have tried 2D pocket, circular, adaptive, and contour and with no success. The issue seems to be getting the top plane of the slot mill to machine the top plane of the o-ring groove. It either leaves material behind or machines too wide of a groove.  I have tried changing the top height offset but it seems to be a random number for each grove, which defeats the purpose of having this be plug and play. 

I have tried to use selection references and expressions to make it more robust since it is a template, but the different numbers for height offset for the tool is preventing me from doing that.

Any help or ideas would be greatly appreciated.

[programming2C78B]

2D contour is all you need.
set one toolpath for the "top" of the tool with an offset = its thickness, and then a separate toolpath for the bottom where bottom = selected contours. 
Set the top height using a GW2 variable. 

[jacob_hassen]

I have tried that but since the flute length is only .031" and the groove width is .067", there is a portion of the groove that doesn't get cut.  

[programming2C78B · Accepted solution]

Yes, thats why the 2nd "bottom" toolpath has Multiple Depths of 0.025" enabled and the top height is driven by your GW2 

[jacob_hassen]

Oh I see now. With multiple depths enabled it will add one if needed but not to exceed the top height specified. This is perfect, thank you.