toolpath
Cutter's programmed journey
A toolpath is the programmed route a cutting tool follows during computer-controlled machining.
CNC mills, lathes, and routers execute toolpaths to shape material with precision: The software generated a toolpath for the complex contour.
Different strategies—zigzag, spiral, adaptive—optimize for speed, surface finish, or tool life.
Automated machining via code
- G-codeMachine tool instructions
- millingProcessing grain mechanically
- cuttingDividing via sharp edge
- drillingHole-making by rotation
turning · lathe · spindle · coolant · fixture · workpiece · reamer · burr
Curved line segment
- curveSmooth, angleless line
- lineContinuous mark or queue
- vectorQuantity with direction
- interpolationEstimating between known values
trajectory · contour · spiral · helix · zigzag · raster · stepover · lead-in
Programs directing computer operations
- CADTechnical drawing technology
- postprocessorProgram that modifies output
- simulationImitation of real processes
- programmingWriting software instructions
nesting · setup · operation · strategy · generation · output · verification · template
Withdraw from office
- engagementCommitment to wed or attend
- efficiencyProductive without waste
- simulationImitation of real processes
- verificationProving something accurate
smoothing · tolerance · adaptive · high-speed · dwell
CNC
Automated machining via code
drilling · turning · lathe · spindle · coolant · fixture · workpiece · reamer · burr · flute
arc
Curved line segment
interpolation · trajectory · contour · spiral · helix · zigzag · raster · stepover · lead-in · lead-out
software
Programs directing computer operations
- CADTechnical drawing technology
- postprocessorProgram that modifies output
- simulationImitation of real processes
programming · nesting · setup · operation · strategy · generation · output · verification · template
stepdown
Withdraw from office
- engagementCommitment to wed or attend
- efficiencyProductive without waste
- simulationImitation of real processes
verification · smoothing · tolerance · adaptive · high-speed · dwell
tool, path, tools, toolbox, tooled, tooling, retool, toolmaker, toolmakers