Need Help!- 4 and 5 axis= failed efforts.

[themuffinman]

Hi. I'm currently a student and one of my classes is MastercamX4. I have the 3 axis down for the most part (not finished with the class) but I want to learn how to do 4 and 5 axis tool paths. My instructor knows how to do 4 and 5 axis but doesn't have the time to teach me.

So my question.

How do I create a tool path for 4 and 5 axis'? I design all of my parts in Solidworks 9(at school) and Solidworks 10(at home)

The biggest problem I am having when trying to tool a path, is an error talking about check surfaces and surface conflicts, along with calculations.

Haven't figured it all out yet (obviously) but I am a FAST learner, so any positive input will help!

[Superman]

Your instructor should give you a step by step order of aquiring the relevant skills

something like:-
1/ 3 axis
3/ WCS and T/C planes and multiple set-ups
2/ surfacing paths
4/ 3+1 axis ( this uses the WCS and planes info for 4th axis positioning )
5/ full 4th axis machining, learning rotary axis paths
6/ full 5-axis machining
7/ multi-function machine ( ie mill/turn, twin turret lathe with 5 axis milling capabilities )

Each stage gives you a little exposure to the next, jumping a stage would make it a little harder to understand, but not impossible.
You should have a good spacial understanding of how a tool should be positioned, what paths are needed, and transition to/from points ( plane changes, retracts etc ) from #5 onwards

Hope this is a guide for you