Using layers to pick tools

[dozer]

First, let me tell you I'm an engineer who creates the Autocad drawings, not the guy that then takes those dwgs and converts them to G-code. We've used a variety of software over the years and recently have started using RouterCim.

RouterCim uses layers to assign tools to tool paths. While I can see some advantages to this, the potential for error seems enormous. For example, suppose you change a hole size but you forget to change the layer it's on? According to our CAM guy if you name a layer "500_hole" and you assign the 0.500 drill (and a bunch of other parameters) to this layer, then regardless of the size circle you draw in this layer, you're gonna get a 0.500" hole.

A couple of questions:
1) Is there any other way to assign tools in RouterCim?
2) If not, are there any fail safes built-in to minimize errors caused by layering problems?
3) Are there any tricks and tips y'all can offer to minimize the problem?

I'm fair at AutoLisp, so I can think of some things to do to help the user be sure he's got stuff in the right layers or even allow him to draw everything on one layer and then put it in the correct layer for him, but since this is probably something I would end up doing on my own time, I don't want to reinvent the wheel.

Thanks

[ger21]

I use CadCode, which uses layer names for operations. Layer's named Vbore, will do vertical drilling. You draw the circle the size you want, and cadcode assigns the tool to that hole, as long as it's drawn on the Vbore layer. I would think that RouterCIM has a similar function. It seems quite prone to error, like you said.

[HuFlungDung]

Within the OnecncXR environment, I guess I would see a couple of ways around that problem: simulation of the program/process, and hole feature recognition. OneCNC's feature recognition will detect complete arcs as potential holes to be drilled (and all visible points as potential hole centers), and list them in a tabulated form which shows their diameters, and the quantity of holes of a given diameter. The layers are irrelevant.

I know it doesn't help you solve the problems in your own situation, but I thought that you might want to know about it. It could sure reduce the liklihood of spoiling a part.

[ger21]

Hu, I'm guessing he has a woodworking machine with multiple drilling heads with fixed boring bits. I don't think OneCNC can write code for that type of machine. Our machine has 21 drilling spindles, and the software has a tool table to assign the different spindles based on diameter. Most woodworking software (like RouterCIM) can be setup for most of the main brands of woodworking CNC machines, most of which all use somewhat proprietary codes to run.

[dozer]

Yes, it has multiple drilling heads but its not for woodworking. We cut aluminum parts with it, like gussets with a bunch of holes. The machine is a Komo. Sorry, I don't know the particulars. If it is important to the question (I'm not sure I see why it would be), let me know and I'll find out.

[ger21]

I figured it was a Komo, because they bought RouterCIM a few years ago. Why don't you give their support people a call?