Probably an easy fix?

[bensherlockdesigns]

Hi Everyone,

I have used the information on the forums for ages and have been able to find most of the issues i have had and get going. This one i am having a little bit more trouble actually figuring out what to search for.

I have a custom CNC router which is 4 meters long. I am programming in some pockets and every time I get the tool paths done, the machine decides to start the toolpath in the center pocket, machine everything and then come back to the origin and back to the center. Same for all the contours etc. 

I am wondering how to make it start in the pocket closest to the origin, work its way down to the end. Then get the contour toolpath to start at the pocket it finished on and then contour each pocket back to the origin.

How do I go about this, what is it called? what option am I missing?

I hope this makes sense, I am self taught with help from the internet.

[seth.madore · Accepted solution]

To make sure I understand your question properly, you want to:
Rough out a pocket

Finish the contour on the pocket

Proceed to next, repeat process?

For that, you're going to utilize one of two options:
1) A separate 3D Pocket and 2D Contour toolpath for each pocket

2) Since the pockets appear to be all identical, I would program up one pocket only and then put all the toolpaths into a Pattern > Duplication:

 I've attached the file for your review 🙂

[bensherlockdesigns]

Thank you Seth, huge help.

To make this toolpath work, this is an absolute win. I have never used the pattern a toolpath yet. So much to learn in the system.