Post Processor Script: Checking axis mode for all toolpaths

[Jaanyaar]

Hi!

There are built in parameters that check a toolpath axis mode:

1. Axis Mode

2. Toolpath Axis Mode

These are useful for one toolpath or move. I need a function or expression to check all toolpaths at the beginning of the post processing.

If all toolpaths are 3 axis then A.

If there is a non 3 axis toolpath then B.

Thanks in advance.

[iamcdn79]

If you write an if expression in the 'Toolpath Start' command like %p(Toolpath Axis Mode)% == "3AXIS" with your commands underneath it. 

Then an else if expression like %p(Toolpath Axis Mode)% != "3AXIS" with your commands underneath that and end if to close it, wouldn't that work for all toolpaths?

[Jaanyaar]

@iamcdn79 

That expression is suitable for one toolpath. It doesn't check all toolpaths in a program. Your structure is correct but the expression is not. A tweak is needed.

[Jaanyaar]

By more examination, I've found that the following expression works for the 1st toolpath.

program.Toolpaths.Item(1).AxisMode=="1"

Where 1 = 3AXIS

2 = 5AXIS

and...

How can I check all toolpaths? 

[iamcdn79]

I think the only to do what you want is to create a UDP https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/powermill-forum/get-toolpath-tool-parameters-in-ampu-script/m-p/97363...

[Jaanyaar]

Axis mode for every toolpath is stored in CLData. So it is enough to have a script or expression to check those stored values. No need to a UDP.  I guess it's simple but beyond my knowledge. 

[Sean571 · Accepted solution]