Helping setting up CAM tool paths

[see.shaughnessy]

Does anybody have any advice on how to set up the cam toolpaths in fusion 360 to cut this out? I’m familiar with the pocket and contour tools, but I’m having trouble figuring out how to cut out the curved u shaped part at the front. Everything I try seems to either want to clear everything including excess stock, or I can’t get to clear in multiple passes (the bit goes all the way into the curve without clearing the top layers first). I was planning to clear the curved part first, and then using a contour to cut out the circle and the rest of the shape, but if there’s a better way please let me know! Any advice is appreciated!

(I'm using a 3.75mm flat end mill for the rest of my project, but can switch to a ball end if necessary. I also don't mind sanding a bit if I can keep my flat end mill on).

[seth.madore]

The 3.75mm flat endmill is going to leave quite the flat in the bottom of the radius, are you really okay with having to sand that much out? If I was trying to machine that, I'd switch to a ball endmill and use Parallel to machine that. I'd also make a patch surface to extend the contour lines so it moves the tool outside of the part. Could you share your file here so we can toss some toolpaths on it?
File > Export > Save to local folder, return to thread and attach the .f3d file in your reply

 

[engineguy · Accepted solution]

@see.shaughnessy 

@seth.madore 

Here are a couple of options that I would look at using, for the 3D option I would pocket out the same as Seth @seth.madore  but I would probably go for the Blend to do the finish, example file attached and link for a Screencast that might help with the selection and setup of the different options 🙂 🙂

Just my "take" on it, as Seth rightly says, upload your file for inspection is usually best 🙂 🙂

Screencast link  https://autode.sk/3y9HyZV

[see.shaughnessy]

Thanks so much for your help! This clears up a lot, and I appreciate the different strategies that you recommended. I think I have a good plan now to tackle this piece. Thanks again!