M

Mill Tutorial

Using WCS and the View Manager

WCSWhat is it?
WCS stands for Work Coordinate System. The Work Coordinate System
contains the orientation of the X-Y-Z axes plus the location of the zero point
(the origin). In Version 9, Mastercam introduced the View Manager. This is
a new dialog box which enhances and brings together in one place many of
Mastercams current tools for creating and selecting named views,
Cplanes, Tplanes, and work offsets. Most of the tools contained in
the View Manager were already present in earlier versions of
Mastercam, but it contains one important new capability: the ability
to move or reorient the coordinate system. The coordinate system in
use by Mastercam at any given time is the Work Coordinate System.
Because Gviews, Cplanes, and Tplanes are all oriented relative to
the WCS, one easy way to think about the WCS is that it determines
the orientation of the Top plane and the location of the origin. For
example, you might have a part that is situated at an odd angle in
your Mastercam file. You can use the View Manager to create a
new view that is aligned with the part, and then tell Mastercam to
use that view as the new Work Coordinate System. This changes the
orientation of the Top plane so that it is parallel to the part. In other
words, when you select GviewTop, the part will appear flat. When
you change the WCS, you change the orientation of all the standard planes
along with it. In addition, the construction origin and tool origin will be
relative to the origin of the WCS.
One thing that confuses some users is the difference between redefining the
WCS and just using the View Manager. There are many jobs that dont need
a new WCS, but where it still makes sense to use the View Manager for
working with Cplanes, Tplanes, and work offsetsfor example, tombstone
work. One common misunderstanding is that anytime you need to work on
different faces of a part or work on non-standard planes, you need to use
WCS. This is not correctMastercam already includes tools like Cplanes
and Tplanes that let you do this. The ability to redefine the orientation of the
WCS is a useful new tool; however, like any tool, it is only appropriate for
specific applications. The examples in this tutorial should help you identify
when it is and isnt appropriate to redefine the WCS.
This tutorial begins by reviewing some frequent questions people have about
WCS. It then takes you through five examples that demonstrate different
techniques for using Tplanes, views, and the View Manager for different
types of jobs.
Copyright 2002 CNC Software, Inc.All rights reserved.
CNC Software, Inc. 671 Old Post Road Tolland, CT 06084 (800) 228-2877 www.mastercam.com

Inside
WCS & View Manager FAQs ..................2
Working with parts in a non-standard
orientationMachining the part
in a non-standard plane ..........................4
Working with parts in a non-standard
orientationMachining the part
lying flat ...................................................7
Working with multiple fixtures ...............12
Tombstone applicationMachining
a different part on each face .................18
Tombstone applicationRepeating
the same part on each face ..................22
View Manager Quick Reference ...........27

WCS and View Manager FAQs

View Manager to select work offsets and
assign them to different views. It is easy to
program these jobs by creating a view for
each fixture and using the views to move
the part zero from fixture to fixture.

Whats a view? What makes a view different

from a Cplane or Gview?
A view is an orientation of the coordinate system
plus an origin. Mastercam includes eight system
views corresponding to standard planes. These
are available in any file and you cannot change
them. In addition, you can create your own views
and name them anything you wish. These are
saved in your part file. Use the View Manager to
see both types of views.
Your part file can contain many different views,
but you can only align the WCS with one of
them at a time. This becomes the view that
determines the orientation of the Top plane.
Cplanes, Tplanes, and Gviews are defined
relative to this view. Changing the WCS to a
different view changes the orientation of the
Cplanes, Tplanes, and Gviews. For example,
selecting GviewTop can give you a different
view of your part depending on which view is
the active WCS. The same relationship holds for
Cplanes and Tplanes. A view by itself doesnt
actually do anything; its just a mechanism for
aligning Tplanes, Cplanes, Gviews, or realigning
the entire WCS itself.
What am I supposed to use WCS for?
A better way to ask the question is, What can I
use the View Manager for? There are several
important types of jobs where the new WCS and
View Manager features are especially useful:
First, the key new feature in the View
Manager is the ability to redefine Top
for a work coordinate system. The most
important use of this function is on parts
that come to you in a non-standard
orientation where you are not allowed to
move or transform the geometry or where
it is simply inefficient to do so. By reorienting the coordinate system, you can
machine these parts as if they were flat
without transforming any geometry.
A second type of application is jobs that
involve multiple fixtures. Because you can
select a different origin for each view, it
makes sense to think of them in terms of
different work offsets. You can use the
2

Third, you can use the View Manager as a

convenient place to select and manage tool
planes, construction planes, and fixture
(work) offsets for jobs where you need to
machine multiple faces of a part. For
example, you dont need to reset the WCS
for a tombstone job because the fixture
itself rotates, but you can still use the View
Manager to manage the different tool
planes and offsets that the job requires.
Later in this tutorial, you will see examples of
each of these types of jobs.
I already use Cplanes and Tplanes to work on
different faces of my part. Why do I need to
learn WCS?
You dont. If youre an experienced Mastercam
user, you can keep on using Mastercam the same
way you always have. The one important new
capability that the View Manager gives you is
the ability to redefine Top. The examples later
in this tutorial will show you how you can use
this capability to easily create toolpaths for parts
without having to move or transform geometry.
Other than that, most of the other functionality
available in the View Manager is available
through the current Cplane and Tplane menus.
Although most users will find that the View
Manager makes it easier to manage complicated
machining jobs or jobs with multiple fixtures
especially if you need to define a new origin
you are certainly not required to use it.
I thought Version 8 already had named views.
Are those different from views in Version 9?
A view in Version 9 has all the functionality of a
named view in Version 8 plus the ability to use it
as a Work Coordinate System. In fact, if you
open an MC8 file in Mastercam Version 9, any
named views that were saved in the MC8 file
will be listed in the View Manager. The
important new ability that the View Manager

Using WCS and the View Manager

gives youthat you could not do in Version 8

is selecting a view to use as the WCS.
The View Manager shows you two types of
views:
system viewsviews created by
Mastercam, including the standard views
18.
user-defined viewscreated by you, either
from geometry in your part file or by
copying a system view.
The user-defined views correspond to the named
views that were used in earlier versions of
Mastercam.
I want to machine the side of my part with a
horizontal machining center. Does that mean I
need to reset my WCS so the Top plane is
aligned with the side?
Absolutely not. For example, if you need to
machine the right face of your part, select
TplaneRight (or a Tplane parallel to it) no
matter what type of machine you will be cutting
the part on. To switch from a VMC to a HMC,
select a different post processor. Dont reorient
your geometry or use the View Manager to
reorient the WCS for a different machineit is
the job of the post processor to translate your
part to a specific machine.

command. Moving the W does not output a

rotary code; using the Set current, Tplane
command does. Later in this tutorial, you will
see how to use the View Manager to set up two
different tombstone applications.
When I verify my toolpaths, why isnt my stock
model aligned with my WCS?
Unfortunately, the stock model that you create in
Job Setup, which is also used by the Verify
feature, is not updated along with the WCS.
Therefore, when you change the orientation of
the WCS and then verify a toolpath, the stock
model wont be properly aligned with the
toolpath.
To work around this, consider saving a stock
model with its proper orientation in a separate
STL file. Then, in the Verify configuration
settings, select Stock ShapeFile and select the
STL file as shown below.

Im trying to do tombstoning work, so Im

setting the WCS to each face of my rotary
fixture, but Im still not getting any rotary
output. What am I doing wrong?
For tombstoning work, you do not need to
realign the WCS for each faceyou need to
select a different Tplane for each face. Changing
the WCS does not output rotary codes
changing the Tplane does (assuming that your
post is configured to do this). Remember, you
only need to re-orient the WCS when you need
to re-orient what Top is. Since the fixture itself
is rotating, you dont need to rotate the
coordinate system also.
In the View Manager, you change the WCS by
moving the W to a different view; you change
the Tplanes with the Set current, Tplane
Using WCS and the View Manager

Working with parts

in a non-standard orientation
The examples in this section walk you through two different applications of the same part file. It
contains a part oriented in a non-standard plane. In the first example, you will machine the part at
its location in the part file. In the second example, you will machine it lying flat. After
completing both exercises, you will see the difference between using a different Tplane and
changing the WCS.
Note: Procedures involving the View Manager, creating views or Tplanes, or using work offsets
are described step-by-step. It is assumed that you are familiar with other Mastercam tasks, like
creating and posting toolpaths. To complete these exercises, you should have Mastercam Mill
Version 9, Level 1, Service Pack 1.

Example 1 Machining the part in a non-standard plane

1. Job descriptionThe part in the Mastercam file is oriented in a non-standard plane. You need

to machine the outside contour. The part is a

subassembly of a larger part, so its orientation in the
file accurately describes how it must be machined.
2. Machining approachUse a 2D contour toolpath,

fixing the tool axis perpendicular to the face being

machined (requires a 5-axis machine).
3. Mastercam solutionCreate a custom Tplane aligned with the part face. Use it to create a 2D

contour toolpath. Posting it with a 5-axis post will result in the proper tool axis orientation.
Follow these steps in Mastercam:
Creating the tool plane and toolpath
1. Open the file fixture plate.mc9. (You will use this same file again later, so
dont overwrite it).
2. Press [F9] to see the axes. Look at the part from different angles, and you
can see that it is not aligned with any of the standard planes.
3. Create a Tplane aligned with the face of the part. Choose the Tplane button,
then Entity.

Using WCS and the View Manager

4. Select the large arc on the right and choose Save.

5. Your Secondary Menu should read Tplane: 9

6. Set the Cplane to match the Tplane. Choose Cplane, Next menu, =Tplane.
7. Now create a contour toolpath, climb
milling from the top-right corner
of the part.
The example shown here uses a
0.375-inch end mill and a depth of
0.5 inch.
8. Go to the Tool parameters tab and choose the T/C plane button. Your tool
and construction plane settings should match the following picture.

Using WCS and the View Manager

 Post the toolpath and review the Gcode

To machine this part properly, you need a 5-axis post. If your shop doesnt
already have one configured for your machine, use the sample5ax.pst included
with this tutorial.
The following code shows the tool approaching the part from the clearance
position. Notice the B and C codes which orient the tool axis perpendicular to
the plane.
T1 M6
G0 G54 G90 X35.6416 Y-24.147 C199.107 B-41.41 S1426 M3
G43 H1 Z.7298
G1 D1 Z.3798 F6.33
You dont need to redefine the WCS any time the part is located in an odd
plane. For applications like this, Mastercams regular Tplane functionality is
still all you need to machine the part properly.
Note: Your output will vary from this example (especially the codes shown in gray).
Since the instructions did not tell you the exact toolpath parameters, default values, or
start point to use, you wont get the exact same coordinate positions and other values
shown here, even if you use the sample5ax post. Your post might also generate other
Gcodes than what is shown here. For the purposes of this exercise, these differences
are not important. Whats important is using the Tplane to produce the B/C-axis rotary
output.

Using WCS and the View Manager

Example 2 Machining the part lying flat

1. Job descriptionYou need to machine a part lying flat on

the table, but the drawing in the Mastercam file is oriented in a

non-standard plane. You cannot rotate, transform, or move the
geometry in the file.
2. Machining approachAll you need is a simple 2D contour

toolpath.
3. Mastercam solutionCreate a new view aligned with the

face of the part. Tell Mastercam to use this new view as the
WCS, and align the Tplane and Cplane to it. Then create a 2D
contour toolpath as you normally would.
Follow these steps in Mastercam:
Creating the view and aligning it with the part
1. Open the part fixture plate.mc9 again.
2. Choose the WCS button to open the View Manager.
3. Right-click in the Views list and choose Create, Select menu from the
menu. This returns you to the graphics window so you can align the new
view with geometry from your part.

4. Choose Entity.
5. Select the arc as shown in the following picture.

Using WCS and the View Manager

The coordinate axes should be aligned as shown in following picture.

6. Choose Save. You will return to the View Manager, where you can see the
new view listed.
7. Choose None under System views display. This turns off the display of
system views, leaving only your custom views and the view that is aligned
with the WCS.

8. In the Name field, type in the following name for the view: Part WCS.
9. In the Comment field, type the following comment: New coordinate
system aligned with top edge of large opening.
10. Choose the WCS column in the new Part WCS line. The W should move
there. Your View Manager settings should match the following picture.

Using WCS and the View Manager

11. Choose OK to return to the graphics window.

12. Press [F9] to see the new coordinate axes (in blue) and the original system
coordinate axes (in brown). The new axes should look like the following
picture.

Note: The origin is automatically located at the center of the arc. Later in
this tutorial, you will learn how to select a new origin.
13. Press [F9] again to clear the axes from the screen.

Using WCS and the View Manager

14. Choose the GviewTop button from the toolbar. If necessary, choose the
ScreenFit button. The part appears as if you are looking straight down on
it.

When you moved the W in the View Manager to your new view, you redefined Mastercams orientation of Top to align with the part. You can
see the effect clearly here when you choose GviewTop.
Creating the toolpath with the new WCS
1. Verify that your Tplane and Cplane are set to Top:

The WCS setting indicates that youve mapped it to the new view that you
created.
2. Create a 2D contour toolpath around the outside boundary of the part.
3. Go to the Tool parameters tab and choose the T/C plane button. Your
settings should match the following picture, showing that youre using the
TplaneTop, but defined relative to the new WCS.

10

Using WCS and the View Manager

 Post the toolpath and review the Gcode

Post the part with a 3-axis post. You can use the sample3ax.pst post included
with this tutorial or a post from your own shop. Your NC code should be similar
to the following example.
The following code shows the tool approaching the part from the clearance
position. Even though you havent touched the geometry in the file, you can see
that the NC codes are for a flat part located near XYZ-zero. By re-setting the
WCS, youve fooled Mastercam into thinking that the part is located flat in
the top plane and eliminated the need for any rotary codes.
T1 M6
G0 G90 G54 X2.5625 Y1.875 S1426 M3
G43 H1 Z.25
Z.1
G1 Z-.25 F6.33
Note: Your output will vary from this example (especially the codes shown in gray).
Since the instructions did not tell you the exact toolpath parameters, default values, or
start point to use, you wont get the exact same coordinate positions and other values
shown here, even if you use the sample3ax post. Your post might also generate other
Gcodes than what is shown here. For the purposes of this exercise, these differences
are not important. Whats important is using the WCS to move the origin and top plane
to the part.

Using WCS and the View Manager

11

Working with multiple fixtures

Another benefit of the new View Manager functionality is that it is easier than ever to use work offsets.
When you create a view, you can assign an offset to it, so that every time you use that view to create a
toolpath, the offset is automatically used. This assignment is associative, so that if you later assign a
different offset to the view, the toolpaths automatically pick up the change.

Example 3 Machining two parts on different fixtures

1. Job descriptionMachine two different parts

with the same NC file. Each part is mounted on

a different fixture on your table.
2. Machining approachAssign a different work

offset to each fixture. Create two different

toolpaths and include the offset number in each
toolpath. By basing each toolpath on an offset
number instead of a coordinate position, your
operator can run the job without worrying about
how the fixtures are positioned on the table. All
they need to do is touch off the parts properly
before running the job to set each offsets
position in the control.
3. Mastercam solutionUse the View Manager

to create a new view for each fixture. Define an

origin for each view at a point on the fixture,
and tell Mastercam which offset you want
associated with each view. Before creating each
operation, select the proper view; Mastercam
will automatically output the correct offset codes when you post the operations. Use the View
Manager to associate the proper work offsets with the custom views that you will create.
For this example, assume that your machine tool uses G54G59 for work offsets, and that you
have reserved offsets G57 and G58 for the two fixtures.
Follow these steps in Mastercam:
Creating the views and setting the offsets
1. Open the file work offsets.mc9.
Press [Alt+S] to turn on shading, if necessary.
You can see the two parts mounted on the two
fixtures. The red points show you where to locate
the origin for each of the two views you will
create.
Note: Even though the parts (and fixtures) are solid models, you can still
complete this example if you do not have a Solids license.
12

Using WCS and the View Manager

2. Open the View Manager by choosing the WCS button. If you wish, choose
Views 18 to see the eight main system views.
3. Since the views that you will create are in the same plane as the system top
view, you can create them by copying the system top view and changing the
origin. Right-click on System View 1 Top (or System View 1 WCS)
and choose Create, Copy selected. A copy of the view appears on the list.
4. In the Name field, type G57 VIEW for the new name.
5. Type Offset for fixture #1 in the Comment box.
6. Choose the Output name and comment to NCI check box. Whenever you
post an operation that uses this view, the comment and view name that you
just created will appear in the NC file.
7. The Work Offset # field is where you tell Mastercam how to assign work
offsets to this view. You have three options:
The default value of 1 tells Mastercam to automatically assign a work
offset whenever this view is used in an operation. Mastercam will assign
the first available offset.
If you want to assign a fixed offset to this view, you can type in a
number. Every time you use this view, Mastercam will output the Gcode
for the offset youve selected, regardless of which operations have been
posted first. Use 0 (zero) for the first offset and increment from there.
The exact Gcode corresponding to this value depends on the postprocessor that you select. For Fanuc-compatible posts, 0 outputs G54, 1
outputs G55, etc. For Fadal posts, 0 outputs E1, 1 outputs E2, etc.
You can also assign a fixed offset by choosing Get unique. Mastercam
will then find the first unused offset and insert its code in the field for
you.
For this example, type in 3. This tells Mastercam to output a G57 whenever
you use this offset.
8. Choose the OriginSelect button to set the origin for this view. You will
return to the graphics window. Select the red point on the left fixture.
Tip: Choose Point from the menu to make it easier to select the red point. This locks the
cursor into selecting only point entities.
The Associative check box in the View Manager means that whenever you move the red
point, Mastercam will automatically adjust the origin of this view.

9. Repeat steps 38 to create a view called G58 VIEW. Use 4 for the Work
Offset #. For its origin, select the red point on the right fixture.

Using WCS and the View Manager

13

This column
shows the work
offsets assigned
to each view.

The W tells you with which

view the WCS is alignedin
other words, where Top is.
Since both of your new views
are parallel to this plane,
there is no need to re-align
the WCS with them.
When you set Tplane
Current in the next
procedure, Mastercam will
pick up the origin and offset
assignment.

Using the views to create the toolpaths

Now that youve created the two views youll need, youre ready to create the
toolpaths.
1. Click on G57 VIEW in the view list to select it. Right-click on it and
choose Set current, Tplane. This means that the Tplane origin is now
aligned with the origin of the G57 view.

2. Choose OK to return to the graphics window.

3. Now create a simple pocket toolpath. Chain the green outline of the left part
and make the pocket 0.5 inch deep.
4. Go to the Tool Parameters tab and choose the T/C plane button. Your
settings should match the following picture.

14

Using WCS and the View Manager

You can see that Mastercam is getting the Tplane information from the view
that you specified. In addition, it has properly read the work offset number
from the view settings. You cant change it here because it is part of the
view settings and needs to be changed in the View Manager.
5. Return to the graphics window to see the pocket toolpath.
6. Before creating the second toolpath, choose the WCS button to return to the
View Manager.
7. Choose the G58 VIEW. Right-click on it and choose Set current, Tplane
to use the origin for the second fixture.
8. Create a contour toolpath around the second part. Chain the magenta
contour, and cut 0.3 inch deep.
9. Go to the Tool Parameters tab and choose the T/C plane button. Your
settings should match the following picture.

Using WCS and the View Manager

15

You can see that the Tplane and offset information now reflect the second
view.
10. After creating the second toolpath, open the Operations Manager. You
should see the offsets included in the toolpath description:

Posting the operations and reviewing the NC code

Post the part with a 3-axis post. You can use the sample3ax.pst post included
with this tutorial or a post from your own shop. Your NC code should be similar
to the following example.
1. Make sure that both operations are selected and choose Post.
2. Review the code for the first toolpath and you can see the G57 offset code.
N104 T1 M6
N106 G0 G90 G57 X-3.9015 Y-2.572 S1069 M3
N108 G43 H2 Z.375 M8
N110 G2 X-4.625 Y-1.8485 R.7235 F6.42
3. Review the code for the second toolpath. You can see the G58 offset code,
and that the coordinates have been reset to the new origin.
N176 T2 M6
N178 G0 G90 G58 X.95 Y-1.6079 S2139 M3
N180 G43 H3 Z.625 M8
N182 Z.475
N184 G1 Z.075 F6.42 ...
Note: Your output will vary from this example (especially the codes shown in gray).
Since the instructions did not tell you the exact toolpath parameters, default values, or
start point to use, you wont get the exact same coordinate positions and other values
shown here, even if you use the sample3ax post. Your post might also generate other
Gcodes than what is shown here. For the purposes of this exercise, these differences
are not important. Whats important is seeing how creating and selecting views can
insert the desired offset codes in your program.
16

Using WCS and the View Manager

 Updating offsets with the View Manager

Because you assigned the work offset to the toolpaths by selecting a view, you
can use the View Manager to update the offset for all toolpaths that use that
view. In this procedure, you will change the offset for the second fixture from
G58 to G56.
1. Choose the WCS button to open the View Manager.
2. Choose the G58 View.
3. Edit the name to read G56 VIEW.
4. Change the Offset # from 4 to 2.
5. Choose OK.
6. Return to the Operations Manager. You can see that the second operation
now needs to be regenerated.
7. Select and regenerate the operation. You can see that the offset has been
changed.

8. Go to the Tool plane / Construction plane dialog box and confirm the new
settings:

9. If you wish, you can post the operation again to verify that the proper Gcode
has been inserted.

Using WCS and the View Manager

17

Tombstone applications
Tombstone applications can be especially confusing, since the fixture is rotating, and typically you will
be using a horizontal machining center where the tool is approaching the part from the side instead of
the top. The examples in this section should help clarify when and how you need to manipulate planes in
your Mastercam file.

Example 4 Machining a different part on each face

1. Job descriptionYou have a tombstoning fixture

with a different part on each face. Machine the parts on

each face in turn. Each part requires a simple 2D
pocket.
2. Machining approachMachine the part on a

horizontal machining center and index the fixture for

each part. The table will rotate about the B axis. Use a
different work offset with each face so the operator can
set up each part with maximum flexibility and
precision. Some of the pockets will need a separate
remachining operation to clean out the corners.
3. Mastercam solutionCreate a separate operation for

each face. Use the View Manager to select the Tplane

for each face. Mastercam will automatically assign a
different work offset when you select each face. After
creating all the roughing and remachining operations,
you can sort the operations to maximize machining
efficiency: by tool to minimize tool changes or by face
to minimize fixture movements.
Follow these steps in Mastercam:
Creating the toolpaths on each face of the
fixture

1. Open the part four-sided job.mc9.

2. You will machine the front face first. Choose the
WCS button to open the View Manager.
3. If necessary, choose the Views 1 8 button. Your
View Manager should look like the following
picture.

18

Using WCS and the View Manager

4. Right-click on System View 2Front and choose Set current, Tplane and
Cplane.

Notice that the WCS is still aligned with the Top view. For this application,
you dont need to redefine Top. Youre just using the View Manager to
manage your Tplanes.
Tip: Notice also that the Work Offset # for the system views are automatically set to 1.
This means that Mastercam will assign an offset to them automatically. Since you cannot
edit a system view, if you want to use a specific offset of your own choosing for the front
face, you need to make a copy of the view and assign your offset to the copy. Example 3 in
the previous section shows you how to do this.

5. Choose OK.

Using WCS and the View Manager

19

6. When you return to the graphics window, you can see the new
Tplane/Cplane settings:

Now create a pocket toolpath for the purple triangle. Use a 0.5-inch endmill
to rough it out, and a 0.1875 (3/16)-inch endmill to clean out the corners.
Use a remachining toolpath to clean out the pocket. To create one, copy the
roughing operation and edit its parameters so that the Pocket type is set to
Remachining.
Tip: Use the Plane Mask chaining option and select the floor of the pocket.

7. Repeat steps 46 to create pocket toolpaths for the right, back, and left faces
of the fixture. The pockets on the back face can be cleaned out in a single
operation with the 0.5-inch endmill; the pockets on the other two faces need
to be remachined with the 3/16-inch endmill.
Remember, before creating the toolpaths for each face, go to the View
Manager, right-click on System ViewRight, Back, or Left, and choose Set
current, Tplane and Cplane.
Tip: Chain the floor of each pocket to define the pocket depth. Choose the Top of stock
button and select the top of the pocket to set the top of stock correctly.

When you are done, there should be seven operations listed in the Operations
Manager.
Posting the operations and reviewing the NC code
1. Select all seven operations and post them. Use a post configured for B-axis
rotary output. If you dont have a properly configured post, you can use the
samplerotary.pst post included with this tutorial.
2. Go to the code at the beginning of the first operation. You can see the G54
and B0 combination that positions the tool at the first face:
N104 T1 M6
N106 G0 G90 G54 X3.0748 Y2.6628 B0. S1069 M3
N108 G43 H2 Z2.
N110 Z.1 ...
3. Scroll down through the program. You should be able to see the B90 code
that indexes the fixture to the right face and the G55 that calls a new offset
for it:
N202 G0 G90 G55 X1.6186 Y3.9107 B90. S1069 M3
N204 G43 H2 Z4.8
N206 G1 Z4.7 F6.42
You can review the toolpaths for each face and verify that Mastercam has
created the proper rotary codes and offsets for each face and toolpath.

20

Using WCS and the View Manager

Note: Your output will vary from this example (especially the codes shown in gray).
Since the instructions did not tell you the exact toolpath parameters, default values, or
start point to use, you wont get the exact same coordinate positions and other values
shown here, even if you use the samplerotary post. Your post might also generate
other Gcodes than what is shown here. For the purposes of this exercise, these
differences are not important. Whats important is seeing how you can insert the proper
rotary codes and offsets by selecting Tplanes in the View Manager.

Sorting the operations

These toolpaths are machined face-by-face to minimize the number of fixture
rotations. If its more efficient for you to minimize tool changes instead, use the
Operations Manager to sort the operations by tool. Even though each
remachining operation no longer immediately follows its roughing operation,
Mastercam still keeps track of the offset and index position used by each.
1. In the Operations Manager, right-click and choose Sort operations, Tool
number, Ascending.

Using WCS and the View Manager

21

Example 5 Repeating the same part on each face

1. Job descriptionYou have a tombstoning

fixture with multiple holders on each face.

Use the fixture to cut multiple copies of a
single part. Each face can accommodate 8
parts in a 2x4 array. Spacing between the
part origins is 5.25 inches in both X and Y
directions.
2. Machining approachMachine the part

on a horizontal machining center. The table

will rotate about the B axis. Create one
toolpath and copy it to each of the other
fixtures. Use a different work offset with each face so the operator can set up each part with
maximum flexibility and precision.
3. Mastercam solutionCreate the toolpath for a single part. Use Mastercams Toolpath

Transform function to repeat the operation multiple times for the first face. Apply the
transform function again to repeat the set of toolpaths on each face. Mastercam will
automatically assign the proper offsets for each face.
Follow these steps in Mastercam:
Creating the first toolpath
1. Open the part tombstone multiple copies.mc9. You can see the part
located on the front face. For clarity, two sides of the fixture have been left
blank. Your toolpath will machine the two slots on the face of the part.
2. Choose the WCS button to open the View Manager.
3. Right-click on System View 2Front and choose Set current, Tplane and
Cplane.

4. Choose OK.
5. Create a toolpath to machine the two slots. You can use a contour toolpath
to create the slot by simply running a 0.625-inch flat endmill along the two
purple lines.
22

Using WCS and the View Manager

 Machining the other parts on the front face

Use Mastercams Transform function to machine the other parts on the front
face. Because you are using a single offset for the entire face, use a specified X
and Y distance to position the tool for each part, instead of using different
offsets.
1. Choose Main Menu, Toolpaths, Next menu, Transform.
2. Choose TypeTranslate. Since there is only one work offset for the entire
face, choose MethodCoordinate.
3. Select the Copy source operation option. This means that the transformed
operation will cut the original part in addition to the seven copies. Your
settings should match the following picture.

4. Choose the Translate tab.

5. Choose Rectangular and enter the array dimensions as shown below.

6. Choose OK to create the transformed toolpath.

Using WCS and the View Manager

23

 Machining the other faces

Use Mastercams Toolpath Transform function a second time. The transform
operation you created in the previous procedure contains the code to machine 8
parts on a single face; by transforming that operation, you can machine all the
faces.
1. Choose Transform again from the Toolpaths menu.
2. Select the transform operation only as shown in the following picturedo
not select the original contour operation.
3. Choose TypeRotate and MethodToolplane.
4. Select the Copy source operation option again.
5. Select the Subprogram option to create the most efficient NC code. This
means that when you post the operation, it wont repeat the same lines of
code for each face.
Tip: If your post is configured for nested subprograms, you can also use the Subprogram
option for the transform operation in the previous procedure.

6. Since you want each face to have its own offset, select the Assign new
option under Work offset numbering.
7. Enter 3 for the Start and Increment by 1 to start your offset numbering at
G57. Your settings should match the following picture.

8. Choose the Rotate tab. You will specify how you want the group of 8
toolpaths to rotate around the fixture.
9. Enter 3 for Number of steps, 90 for Start angle, and 90 for Rotation
angle.

24

Using WCS and the View Manager

10. Activate the Rotation view check box and choose the View button. Select
CplaneTop. This will be the plane of rotation. Your settings should match
the following picture.

11. Choose OK to create the toolpaths.

12. Open the Operations Manager. You should see the two transform operations
as shown in the following picture.

13. Backplot operation 3 to see the toolpaths on each face of the fixture.
Posting the operation and reviewing the NC code
1. Post operation 3 only. Because you selected Copy source operation for
each transform, it is the only operation you need to post.
Use a post configured for B-axis rotary output. If you dont have a properly
configured post, you can use the samplerotary.pst post included with this
tutorial.
2. Your code should look like the following sample. Notice that it starts with
G57 and B0, and increments properly from there. The P001 subprogram
contains all the tool movements for each face.
N106 G0 G90 G57 X-3.625 Y21.875 B0. S855 M3
N108 G43 H2 Z7.25
N110 M98 P0001
Using WCS and the View Manager

25

N290 G90 G58 X-3.625 Y21.875 Z7.25 B90.

N292 M98 P0001
N472 G90 G59 X-3.625 Y21.875 Z7.25 B180.
N474 M98 P0001
N654 G90 G54.1 P1 X-3.625 Y21.875 Z7.25 B270.
N656 M98 P0001
Note: Your output will vary from this example (especially the codes shown in gray).
Since the instructions did not tell you the exact toolpath parameters, default values, or
start point to use, you wont get the exact same coordinate positions and other values
shown here, even if you use the samplerotary post. Your post might also generate
other Gcodes than what is shown here. For the purposes of this exercise, these
differences are not important. Whats important is seeing how you can insert the proper
rotary codes and offsets by using the Transform function.

Youve completed this introduction to Mastercams new View Manager! To

learn more about the View Manager, visit the Mastercam Web site at
www.mastercam.com, where youll find newsletters, the latest patches and
fixes, and forums where you can exchange questions and ideas with other
Mastercam users.

26

Using WCS and the View Manager

View Manager Quick Reference

For any topic not listed here, please refer to the online help. Choose the Help button on the View Manager or
choose the ? button on the title bar and select any field or button to read more about it.

Using columns
Click on a column header to sort
the list of views:

Selecting views from the graphics window

Choose the Select icon button to return to the graphics window. Your custom views will
be represented by icons. Click on the desired view to select it.

V#Each view has a number.

Only views with an X in the Display column will appear.

Woff#The work offset

youve assigned to a view.
This will be blank if the offset
is set to 1.

Use the AttributesColor box to tell Mastercam what color to use for each views
icon.

OpsAn X in this column

indicates that the view is
used in an operation.
WCSThe W indicates with
which view the WCS is
aligned. Only one view can
have the W.

For more information

Choose Info to see:
detailed information
about the geometry
underlying the view

Displaying system views

System views are any views
created by Mastercam instead
of by you. You can show:

an Operations
Managerstyle list of
toolpaths that use the
view

None of these views (the

view with the W will always
appear).
Views 18 to display the 8
system views (shown here).
All of the views. You will see
all views created internally
by Mastercam. Typically you
do not need to see these.

Work offsets
To associate a specific
work offset with a view,
enter the offset code
here. Use 0 for G54 or
E1, and increment from
there.

Any views that you create will

always be listed.

Choose Get unique

to have Mastercam
find an unused offset.

Setting the origin

Choose Select to return to the
graphics window to select a
new origin for this view.

Enter 1 to have
Mastercam automatically assign an
offset.

Select Associative to
automatically update the
origin whenever you move
the selected point.

Hides the lower half of

the View Manager.

Choose All off to reset all Tplane,

Cplane, and Gviews to default settings.
Choose WCS off to reset the WCS to
Top view with 0,0,0 origin.

Select this option to realign the

current Gview to the new WCS
when you return to the graphics
window.

Select thisoption to insert

the Name and Comment as
comments in your NC and
NCI files.

Reading the WCS button

The WCS button gives you a snapshot of the current WCS orientation:
The * indicates that the WCS has a custom origin.
A n means that it is based on a user-defined view.
If the view is parallel to one of the 8 main system
views, it is abbreviated here (this example shows F
for the front plane). Otherwise, the button shows
the number of the view which sets the WCS
orientation.

CNC Software, Inc.

671 Old Post Road Tolland, CT 06084
(800) 228-2877 www.mastercam.com

View Manager Quick Reference

Right-click in the view-list window and select one of the following menu options. Some of the options
only work on the selected view.

Creating new views and planes

Create a new view by copying the selected view and editing its
parameters. Since you cannot edit a system view, use this
option to create a copy of the system view and edit the copy.
Create a new view and define a relationship to the selected
view. This means that any changes to the original view will be
reflected in the related view. (To learn more about relative
views, see Creating a relative named view in the online help.)
Create a new view by returning to the graphics window and
selecting geometry. The geometry you select will define how
the Top plane is oriented in the new view.
Create a new Cplane, Tplane, or Gview by copying the current
one.

Selecting Tplanes, Cplanes, and Gviews

Use these menu options to align the Tplane, Cplane, Gview,
or any combination with the view that is selected in the view
list window. The selected view doesnt have to be the same
view as the WCS for you to align a plane to it. This option sets
both the orientation of the planes and their origin.
These menu options are equivalent to selecting a Tplane,
Cplane, or Gview from the regular Mastercam menus, as you
did before Version 9.

Managing your views

Deletes the currently selected view. You cannot delete a
system view.
Import views from another file. When you choose this option,
you will see the View Manager from another file, where you
can select views to import. Mastercam imports the orientation
and origin, but not the geometry on which the views are
based. If the view in the source file has an offset assigned to
it, Mastercam will import that as well.
Toggles the Display setting for the selected view. This
determines if an icon for this view will be available when you
choose the Select icon button.
Aligns the WCS with the selected view. (This has the same
effect as clicking in the WCS column.)
Creates a detailed report on the views in this file and writes it
to a text file with a .DOC extension.