Overview
The Machining Strategy feature provides transparency into the platform's CNC calculation logic, assumed tooling, and setup configurations. Integrated directly into the interactive 3D Viewer, it allows users to inspect feature-level cycle times, visualize machining directions, and verify setup breakdowns for subtractive manufacturing quotes.
Key Features
Interactive 3D Viewer Integration: Highlights all part features assigned to a specific setup.
Automatic View Rotation: Automatically rotates the 3D model to align with the active machining direction when inspecting setups.
Feature-Level Cycle Time Display: Breaks down calculated cycle times per feature and per setup.
Data Export & ERP Integration: Machining Strategy data (setups, tool selections, and cycle time breakdowns) can be exported via JSON Push Messages (API) or included in custom quote PDF templates via system variables.
How to Use Machining Strategy
Navigate to Tickets and open the target CNC part details page.
Ensure the part geometry has been analyzed and features are assigned to a CNC service (e.g., 3-Axis Milling, 5-Axis Machining).
Open the 3D Viewer from the part analysis widget.
Select the Machining Strategy tab in the Feature view within the viewer controls.
Click on individual setups or feature groups in the list:
The 3D model will automatically re-orient to the selected machining direction.
Associated geometric features will highlight on the 3D model.
The breakdown panel will display the estimated setup time, programming time, assumed tooling parameters, and feature-level cycle times.
Exporting Strategy Data
To include Machining Strategy details on customer-facing or internal documents:
PDF Templates: Add the Machining Strategy variable to your PDF template in Settings > Email and PDF Templates.
API / Push Messages: The strategy data payload is included in standard Order Push Messages (JSON v1.19+) for integration with third-party ERP or MES applications.