Review: :
Révision
BETA 1
BETA 0
Conception SWOOD – Cost dans la bande de bord Tableau de référence/largeur
2
SWOOD 2024
What’s new
The purpose of this document is to present the new features of SWOOD 2024, to define their
parameters and, lastly, to provide explanatory videos for certain new features, so that they
can be better understood.
How does this document work?
For each software (SWOOD Design, SWOOD CAM, SWOOD Nesting and SWOOD Report), you
can click on a bookmark, which will redirect you to the corresponding chapter in this
document.
Global new feature
Simplified access to SWOOD Rx
EFICAD's team makes its best efforts to provide software that is as stable as possible,
however, it does happen that some software functions fail. So that end users can report
these bugs as accurately as possible, and so that developers can understand and correct
them; EFICAD has developed a small utility to enable this: SWOOD Rx. In SWOOD 2024, SWOOD
Rx is available more easily, directly in the software interface.
SWOOD Rx utility interface
SWOOD 2024 – What’s new
SWOOD Design
New feature Description
Panel Joint
SWOODBox parameters on
external panels
SWOODBox origin offset
SWOOD 2024 – What’s new – SWOOD Design
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Save File by Drag&Drop
Display of SWOOD Center
model parameters
Search for files in libraries
Clickable links in SWOODBox
messages
New mathematical script
functions
SWOOD 2024 – What’s new – SWOOD Design
SWOOD CAM
New feature Description
New 3D Finishing (BETA)
Edgeband Encoder
Angle Finishing
SWOOD 2024 – What’s new – SWOOD CAM
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Corner Notching
Clamex with milling tool
New automatic orientation
strategies
Simplified access to "Tools
synchronization" and "CAM
Copy"
SWOOD 2024 – What’s new – SWOOD CAM
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Report option if no machining
to be encoded
Use SWOOD Design stock
extension
Custom operations names
SWOOD 2024 – What’s new – SWOOD CAM
SWOOD Nesting
New feature Description
Ignore grain direction
Forcing four corners in part
types
Disable program recalculation
SWOOD 2024 – What’s new – SWOOD Nesting
SWOOD Report
New feature Description
System Report
Cutting Pattern
SWOOD 2024 – What’s new – SWOOD Report
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SWOOD Design – Panel Joint
The latest SWOOD Design update introduces an exciting new feature: the creation of
interference joints.
Now, users can easily design complex joints, such as miter-cuts, halved-joint and mortise
and tenon, by manipulating the intersection of two panels. This innovation makes it possible
to customize joints with a variety of adjustable parameters, greatly simplifying structural
design and the production of made-to-measure wood parts.
Example of a project using Panel Joints
I. How to use
1. Panel Joint types
There are three types of Panel Joint:
a. The “Halved Joint”
The Halved Joint is a joint between two overlapping wooden parts. The cross-section of each
part is halved at the intersection to allow the other to pass through, thus maintaining the
continuity of the two parts. SWOOD Design's "Halved Joint" Panel Joint refers to the joint
carried out on the edge of the wood parts, rather than on the flat.
Example of de "Halved Joint"
SWOOD Design – Panel Joint
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The "Halved Joint” can be defined by the following parameters:
Icon Name Effect Image
• “Classic Halved Joint”: The end of the
halved Joint is a semicircle the width of
the notch.
Type
• “Undercut Halved Joint”: More elaborate
halved Joint which, thanks to its free
corners, allows contact between the two
inner surfaces.
Offset Operating clearance between two panels.
Reverse the Reverse the position of the joint between the
direction two panels.
* Only for the "Undercut Halved Joint" type.
Tool radius* Radius of recess created by corner
clearance.
Location Joint position as a percentage of joint width.
Use 3 axis Cut the panels so that they can be
machining machined by a 3-axis machine.
To obtain a "traditional" Halved Joint with straight corners, apply the following
parameters:
• A “Undercut Halved Joint” type.
• A Tool radius of 0mm.
SWOOD Design – Panel Joint
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Traditional “Halved Joint” with straight corners
b. The “Mortise and Tenon”
The “Mortise and Tenon” is a traditional joint used to join two perpendicular wooden parts.
The tenon is a rectangular projection cut into the end of one part, while the mortise is a
corresponding recess cut into the other part.
Example of a “Mortise and Tenon” joint
The "Mortise and Tenon" joint can be defined by the following parameters:
SWOOD Design – Panel Joint
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Icon Name Effect Image
Offset Operating clearance between two panels.
Reverse the Reverse the position of the joint between
direction the two panels.
Radius of recess created by corner
Tool radius
clearance.
Mortise length, without taking the offset
Mortise length
(clearance) into account.
Number of "Mortise and Tenon" joints
Quantity across the entire interference between the
two panels.
*Only when quantity equals 1.
Location* Joint position as a percentage of joint
width.
* Only when quantity equals 1.
X Offset*
Position of end mortises (on the joint axis).
SWOOD Design – Panel Joint
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Unchecked: Cut the tenon panel to
Use body to match the face of the mortise panel.
compute
instead of box Checked: Cut the tenon panel along
the body of the mortise panel.
Use 3 axis Cut the panels so that they can be
machining machined by a 3-axis machine.
* Only when 3-axis machining is activated.
3 axis tenon
inside Cut the tenon so that it does not extend
beyond the second panel.
To obtain a "traditional" Mortise and Tenon joint with straight corners, apply the
following parameters:
• A Tool radius of 0mm.
Traditional “Mortise and Tenon” with straight corners
c. The “Panel Cut”
The Panel Cut groups together three separate joints:
• Miter Cut: Saw cut to join two panels along the bisector of their angle, thus avoiding
the need for an edgeband on their end.
SWOOD Design – Panel Joint
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Example of a "Miter cut”
• One cover two: Cuts the panel whose plane has been selected second.
Example of "One cover two”
• Two cover one: Cuts the panel whose plane was selected first.
Example of "Two cover one »
The "Panel Cut" can be defined by the following parameters:
SWOOD Design – Panel Joint
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Icon Name Effect Image
“Miter Cut”: Cuts the panels along the
bisector of the angle of the two planes.
“One cover two”: Cuts the panel whose
Type
plane has been selected second.
“Two cover one”: Cuts the panel whose
plane was selected first.
Reverse the Reverse the position of the joint between
direction the two panels.
*Only for "Miter Cut" type.
Internal
opening* Size of the corner opening between the two
panels.
* Only for "One cover two" and "Two cover
one" types.
Do not cut the
covering part* Allows to let the covering part run instead
of cutting it off at the end of the other
panel.
2. Interface
a. Creating Panel Joints
In order to create Panel Joints, you must first open a SolidWorks assembly, then there are
several ways to create Panel Joints:
i. From the menu bar
To create Panel Joints from the menu bar, go to:
Tools → SWOOD Design → Panel Joint
This gives you access to all Panel Joints.
SWOOD Design – Panel Joint
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ii. From the CommandManager
SWOOD Design's Command Manager can be integrated with a Flyout toolbar containing the
various commands for creating Panel Joints.
To do this, you need to:
1. Right-click on the SWOOD Design CommandManager.
2. Click on “Customize…”.
3. Go to the “Commands” tab.
4. In the list of toolbars, click on "Flyout Toolbars" (the second one in the list).
5. In the Buttons section, find the "Panel Joint" command.
SWOOD Design – Panel Joint
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6. Drag and drop the command into the CommandManager.
7. Clicking on this Flyout toolbar gives access to all Panel Joints.
b. Plane selection
Once the Panel Joint has been selected, a PropertyManager appears, named after the Panel
Joint.
The first parameter section is the plane selection section. In this section, there are two planes
to select, which must be the top or bottom face of the panels.
SWOOD Design – Panel Joint
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It is possible to invert the plane selection, using the invert button , for example to
switch from the top face to the bottom face.
c. Visualization in the Graphics Area
Once the planes have been selected, a preview of the Panel Joint is shown in the Graphics
Area.
The blue preview shows the joint for the first panel selected.
The pink preview shows the joint for the second panel selected.
Some joints have arrows to indicate the direction of the joint:
i. The “Mortise and Tenon”
For the "Mortise and Tenon" joint, the viewing arrow is used to show the direction of the tenon,
towards the inside of the panel.
Display arrow for viewing "Mortise and tenon" joint
ii. The “Panel Cut”
For the "Panel Cut" joint, two arrows are provided to show the cutting direction for all three
types of cut.
SWOOD Design – Panel Joint
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Display arrows for viewing "Miter cut" type
Display arrows for "One covers two" and "Two covers one" types
d. Parent and child functions
Once the Panel Joint assembly has been created and the PropertyManager validated,
several SolidWorks functions are created in the FeatureManager Design Tree:
i. Assembly level
At SolidWorks assembly level, Panel Joint functions are located at the very bottom of the
FeatureManager Design Tree.
When you edit this function, you'll find all the Panel Joint parameters previously presented.
ii. Part level
At SolidWorks part level, Panel Joint functions are located at the very bottom of the
FeatureManager design tree.
When editing this function, you can select the "Action body" or "Action bodies". This allows
you to define which body(ies) will be used as a reference when applying the Panel Joint.
SWOOD Design – Panel Joint
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II. Explanatory video
To get a better idea of how to use this feature, take a look at the following video:
Panel Joint
SWOOD Design – Panel Joint
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SWOOD Design - SWOODBox parameters on
external panels
With this SWOOD Design update, users now benefit from an advanced feature that
dynamically adjusts the behavior of the SWOODBox using the dimensions of the surrounding
panels. This technical advance opens up new possibilities for customization and efficiency,
enabling precise, automated adaptation of your wood projects. Thanks to this intelligent
integration, designing wood structures and elements becomes more intuitive, faster and
less error-prone, taking design automation to the next level.
Example of a project where the thickness of the frame panel is used to position the top
screws of the SWOODBox.
I. How to use
1. Usage
To access these dimensions on the context outside the SWOODBox, you need to edit a
SWOODBox. To do this, you need to:
• Go to the SWOOD library .
• Go to the SWOODBox library .
• Right-click on a SWOODBox, then click on "Edit”.
SWOOD Design – SWOODBox parameters on external panels
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• Once the assembly is open, click on the "SWOODBox" PropertyManager.
• Open script window
In the list of SWOODBox context variables, there are:
- 6 parameters for outer panel thicknesses:
Panel Parameter’s name Alias
Back Back thickness SBBKT
Bottom Bottom thickness SBBTT
Front Front thickness SBFT
Left Left thickness SBLT
Right Right thickness SBRT
SWOOD Design – SWOODBox parameters on external panels
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Top Top thickness SBTT
- 6 box offset parameters:
Left face
Right face
Width
Left offset Right offset
Front face
Back face
Depth
Front offset Back offset
Bottom face
Top face
Height
Bottom offset Top offset
Offset Parameter’s name Alias
Back
Back gap SBBKO
offset
Bottom
Bottom gap SBBTO
offset
Front
Front gap SBFO
offset
Left offset Left gap SBLO
Right
Right gap SBRO
offset
SWOOD Design – SWOODBox parameters on external panels
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Top offset Top gap SBTO
Warning: These 12 context variables are read-only, meaning that they can only be read
and not controlled via the script.
2. Test Mode
To test your SWOODBox at the design stage, you can manually modify thicknesses and
offsets.
This requires:
• Go to SWOODBox editing Test Mode.
• Click on "More" below the SWOODBox dimension context variables.
• Modify context variable values.
• Click on the rebuild window button (top left).
• Click on the validation button (bottom right).
SWOOD Design – SWOODBox parameters on external panels
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II. Explanatory video
To get a better idea of how to use this feature, take a look at the following video:
SWOODBox parameters on external panels
SWOOD Design – SWOODBox parameters on external panels
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SWOOD Design - SWOODBox origin offset
SWOOD Design version 2024 introduces a new feature that enhances design capabilities:
the three-dimensional offset of a SWOODBox along the X, Y and Z axes. Thanks to the
introduction of new parameters, users can now precisely adjust the position of a SWOODBox
in relation to its insertion volume, without resorting to offset planes. This innovation opens
the door to the creation of more complex, customized SWOODBox configurations, simplifying
the design process and offering greater flexibility in the spatial adjustment of your project
elements.
Example of SWOODBox origin offset in X, Y and Z
I. How to use
1. Access to the parameter
To use SWOODBox's original offset, it is necessary first to:
• Go to the SWOOD library .
• Go to the SWOODBox library .
• Right-click on a SWOODBox, then click on "Edit".
SWOOD Design – SWOODBox origin offset
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• Go to the SWOODBox PropertyManager .
• Open the script window .
Among the SWOODBox " Object" parameters is the new " Origin offset" parameter, alias
"ORIGINOFFSET".
2. Use of the parameter
Afin d’appliquer des décalages à l’origine selon les axes X, Y, ou Z de la SWOODBox, il faut
écrire le script suivant :
Script Effect
ORIGINOFFSET.X = 100 SWOODBox X-axis origin offset of 100mm
ORIGINOFFSET.Y = 100 SWOODBox Y-axis origin offset of 100mm
ORIGINOFFSET.Z = 100 SWOODBox Z-axis origin offset of 100mm
SWOOD Design – SWOODBox origin offset
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SWOOD Design – Save File by Drag&Drop
This new SWOOD Design feature makes it easy to drag and drop a 3D model opened in
SOLIDWORKS, directly into the SWOOD Design library. It automatically saves new designs,
creates copies of existing designs and adds shortcuts, making file management quick and
easy.
Example of file saving using drag & drop
I. How to use
1. Drag & drop
The saving action takes place as follows:
1. Click on the name of the part or assembly in the FeatureManager Design Tree.
2. Hold click and drag cursor to target SWOOD Design library.
3. Release the item in a folder in the target SWOOD Design library.
2. Use cases
This feature can be used in three distinct situations:
• If the SolidWorks file is not saved on the computer, drag & drop will save the file in the
SWOOD Design library.
• If the SolidWorks file is already saved on the computer, drag & drop will copy the file
to the SWOOD Design library.
• If the SolidWorks file is already saved on the computer, drag & drop combined with
the "SHIFT" key will create a link in the SWOOD Design library to the original file.
The following table summarizes the use cases for the new feature:
SWOOD Design – Save File by Drag&Drop
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Already
Case Pressed key Consequence
saved?
New file
The file will be saved in the SWOOD Design
No Ø
library.
Copy
A copy of the file will be saved in the
Yes Ø
SWOOD Design library.
Link
A link will be created in the SWOOD Design
Yes
SHIFT library to the existing file.
Each case has the following specificities:
e. New file
If you wish to save a new file that has not yet been saved on the computer, and the file type
can be saved in the library, a save window will open at the location selected at the time of
deposit.
In this window, you can:
• Specify file name and save.
In this case, the file will be saved in the location selected at the time of deposit.
Change the save location, specify a file name and save.
In this case, the file will be saved in the new location.
If the new location is not in a library folder, the directory of the saved file is added to the
library.
f. Copy
If the file is already saved on the computer, drag & drop creates a copy of the current file in
the location selected at the time of deposit.
The file must be saved before creating the copy.
Copied file does not open automatically.
g. Link
If the SHIFT key is held down during deposit, a link to the file directory is created in the library.
If the link already exists in the library, the node corresponding to the moved document
is displayed in the tree.
SWOOD Design – Save File by Drag&Drop
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3. Restrictions
The drag&drop saving feature observes a few restrictions between SolidWorks file types and
SWOOD Design libraries:
• Parts can only be saved in the panel library.
• Assemblies can only be saved in the Frame library or the SWOODBox library.
• Drawings cannot be saved in any SWOOD Design library.
The following diagram summarizes these restrictions:
SolidWorks
file type SWOOD Design Library
Part Panels Library
Frames Library
Assembly
SWOODBox Library
Drawing Impossible Drag&drop
SWOOD Design – Save File by Drag&Drop
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SWOOD Design – Display of SWOOD Center
model parameters
A new feature in SWOOD Design 2024 concerns the editing of SWOOD Center models. As with
SWOODBoxes in 2023, a set of tools for displaying model parameters will facilitate, secure,
and accelerate model creation.
SWOOD Center model parameters interface
I. How to use
To view the new SWOOD Center model parameters, simply create or modify an existing
SWOOD Center model.
1. Search bar
To access the search bar, simply click on the magnifying glass icon in the parameter’s
toolbar. It will open the search bar above.
• Search is not case-sensitive. For example, a search for "Oo" may display words with
"oo" or "OO".
• Search is inclusive. For example, a search for "oo" might return "Groove".
• Search is active in variable names, descriptions, aliases and categories.
2. Filters
It is possible to display certain parameters according to some of their properties.
SWOOD Design – Display of SWOOD Center model parameters
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a. Parameter types
Filters can be applied to the following parameters: Distance, Integer, Angle,
Boolean, String, Decimal and Object.
b. Exposure
If the "Exposed" filter is unchecked, only exposed parameters are shown in the list.
3. Folder organization
Parameters with a category are now placed in a folder with the name of the category in the
list of parameters.
It is possible to assign a category to a parameter simply by dragging it into a folder.
This folder organization can be deactivated by clicking on the " Show/Hide Repository"
filter.
Folder layout Classic layout
If folders are visible, you can open all folders at once by clicking on the " Open/Close
Repository" filter.
SWOOD Design – Display of SWOOD Center model parameters
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Closed categories Open categories
SWOOD Design – Display of SWOOD Center model parameters
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SWOOD Design – Search for files in libraries
With SWOOD 2024, there is a significant improvement in the search algorithm for SWOOD
Design libraries. This improvement is particularly relevant for companies with SWOOD
Design libraries containing many elements.
Indeed, with this new algorithm, the search takes 4x less time to complete.
From now on, results will be displayed as a list of items matching the search, rather than in
a sub-folder structure.
I. How it works
Old search algorithm New SWOOD 2024 search algorithm
SWOOD Design – Search for files in libraries
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II. Explanatory video
To get a better idea of how to use this feature, take a look at the following video:
Search for files in libraries
SWOOD Design – Search for files in libraries
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SWOOD Design – Clickable links in SWOODBox
messages
This new feature has been created to allow users to click on hyperlinks when they appear in
SWOODBox messages. This can be particularly useful for directing the user to the catalog of
a hardware supplier used in the SWOODBox.
Example of SWOODBox editing with a clickable link in a SWOODBox message
I. How to use
In order to create clickable links in SWOODBox messages, you have to:
• Go to the SWOOD library .
• Go to the SWOODBox library .
• Right-click on a SWOODBox, then click on "Edit".
• Once the assembly is open, click on the "SWOODBox" PropertyManager.
• Open the script window .
SWOOD Design – Clickable links in SWOODBox messages
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In your SWOODBox script, you can include a message containing an URL.
This link can be clicked directly in the SWOODBox "Test Mode" and also when editing the
SWOODBox once it has been inserted.
SWOOD Design – Clickable links in SWOODBox messages
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SWOOD Design - New mathematical script
functions
SWOOD Design 2024 integrates four new scripting functions that can be very useful for
SWOODBox, Connectors and SWOOD Center models.
The Min(A, B) function compares the two values A and B and returns the minimum.
The Max(A, B) function compares two values, A and B, and returns the maximum.
The Floor(A, C) function is used to round down A to C decimal places.
The Ceil(B, C) function is used to round up B to C decimal places.
Script example using the new mathematical functions
I. How to use
In order to use the new mathematical script functions, you need to edit the script:
• Of a SWOODBox.
• Of a connector.
• Of a SWOOD Center model.
1. Minimum and Maximum
The minimum (Min) and maximum (Max) functions compare two numbers and give either
the minimum or the maximum between these two values.
Warning: The minimum and maximum functions can be used to compare only two
numerical parameters.
Tip: To compare more than just two numbers in a minimum or maximum function, you
can interlock the functions. For example, to find out the minimum between the numerical
parameters A, B and C, simply write:
Result = Min(Min(A, B), C)
SWOOD Design – New mathematical script functions
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2. Top and bottom rounding
The "Floor" and "Ceil" rounding functions are used to round a numerical parameter to a
certain number of decimal places.
For example, if you take the decimal number "1.2345" and want to round it to three decimal
places:
The formula Floor(1,2345, 3) returns 1,234
The formula Ceil(1,2345, 3) returns 1,235
SWOOD Design – New mathematical script functions
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SWOOD CAM – New 3D Finishing (BETA)
SWOOD CAM version 2024 revolutionizes its 3D machining management with the
introduction of its new 3D Finishing machining. This major advance, features a
significant improvement in algorithmic stability, surpassing the performance of previous
finishing operations. It is complemented by a completely redesigned operation editing
interface for maximum intuitiveness, offering users unprecedented flexibility thanks to an
expanded range of selections and options. What's more, this feature eliminates the need to
create stitched surfaces thanks to advanced 3D object recognition, considerably simplifying
the machining process. This innovation represents a giant step forward in the optimization
and customization of 3D machining, guaranteeing high-quality finishes with enhanced
efficiency and ease of use.
New 3D Finishing interface
I. How to use
To use the new 3D finishing, you no longer need to create Knit surfaces on the surfaces
you wish to machine. From now on, no selection is required to create a new 3D finishing.
1. Access to the new 3D finishing
To access the new 3D finishing interface, simply go to the SolidWorks menu bar:
Tools → SWOOD CAM → 3D Finishing
2. Interface
The new 3D finishing window is divided into 6 sections:
SWOOD CAM – New 3D Finishing (BETA)
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Toolbar
Validation bar
Graphics Area
PropertyManager
Rebuild bar
Status bar
a. Toolbar
The toolbar of the new 3D finishing window contains the following commands:
Icon Command name Description
Defines the machining and technology parameters of
the operation. These include the operation name as it
will appear in the milling phase, tool selection and
Technology Parameters
cutting parameters. It is also possible to choose the
operation's technology parameters and manage the Z
axis movements.
Selects the faces to be machined and the faces to
protect. By default, the entire 3D model is selected. It
Geometry is also possible to select only some of the model's
faces. Define surfaces to be protected by selecting
3D model faces and by safety offset.
Defines operation reference planes and their offsets,
such as Z security, Z approach, maximum and
minimum machining altitude planes.
Constraints
Use sketches to define specific areas for machining,
inclusive or exclusive.
SWOOD CAM – New 3D Finishing (BETA)
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Defines the operation's pass parameters, such as
passes type or direction. It also defines the
Passes management of steep areas of the 3D model and
the tool tilting. In this section, you can define the
passes stepover.
Transitions Defines transition parameters between passes.
Recalculate operation according to last parameter
Rebuild
modification.
When a command is clicked, the PropertyManager adapts to the command and presents
the parameters of the section.
b. Validation bar
The validation bar contains the following commands:
Icon Command name Description
Validates parameters and creates a machining
Operation Validation
operation.
Does not take machining parameter modifications
into account. If this is the first edition of the
Operation Cancel operation, it is not created; if it is an edition of an
existing operation, the parameter modification will
not be taken into account.
Previous Section Returns to previous section.
Next Section Skip to next section.
c. PropertyManager
The parameters displayed in the PropertyManager depend on the section selected in the
toolbar.
d. Rebuild bar
The rebuild bar is a visual aid to help you see how far along you are in rebuilding the
operation, since modifying parameters alone is not enough to update the operation.
SWOOD CAM – New 3D Finishing (BETA)
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A green rebuild bar means that the model has been successfully rebuilt according to the
latest parameter modifications.
A blue rebuild bar means that the model has not yet been rebuilt.
e. Status bar
The status bar displays messages appropriate to the state of the model and its rebuilding.
f. Graphics Area
The graphics area displays and interacts with the 3D model, especially when selecting
surfaces to be machined, protected or excluded.
The 3D model is displayed without texture, with its origins defined in the machining phase.
Configuration Image
No selection
Machined surfaces
(in light blue)
Protected surfaces
(in yellow)
The Graphics Area features a Heads-up View Toolbar, with the following commands:
SWOOD CAM – New 3D Finishing (BETA)
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Icon Command name Description
Zoom to fit Zooms to all visible items.
Choose between standard and non-standard
View Selector
display orientations.
Displays a flyout where you can change the display
style for the active view:
Display Style Shaded With Edges, Shaded, Hidden Lines
Removed, Hidden Lines Visible, Wireframe,
Mesh with fins, Fins.
Controls the visibility of all types:
Part, OP0, Selected Faces, Reference
Hide / Show All Types
Planes, Trajectory, Stock, Slicing, Protected
Faces, Volumic Constraints.
II. Explanatory video
To get a better idea of how to use this feature, take a look at the following video:
New 3D Finishing (BETA)
SWOOD CAM – New 3D Finishing (BETA)
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SWOOD CAM – Edgeband Encoder
The latest version of SWOOD CAM introduces a feature that enables automatic
edgeband application directly from the machine, thanks to sophisticated integration in the
program code. Designed specifically to work with B-SOLID and WOODWOP post-processors
dedicated to this task, this advance offers a solution for automating and simplifying the
edgeband application process. This enhancement promises not only to increase
manufacturing efficiency, but also to optimize finishing quality. To take full advantage of this
feature and transform your production, we recommend that you consult your SWOOD
reseller.
Edgeband encoder window interface
I. How to use
Warning: Edgeband encoder feature can only be used with B-SOLID or WOODWOP
post-processors specifically configured for this purpose.
Warning: To use the edgeband encoder feature, SWOOD CAM and SWOOD Design must
be activated.
1. Edgeband encoding application
To apply an edgeband encoding to a SWOOD panel, several steps are required:
1. Open a SWOOD panel in SolidWorks.
2. Apply one or more SWOOD edgebands.
3. Create a milling phase with a compatible post-processor and define
origins.
4. Click on the "Edgebands" command, available from the SolidWorks menu bar:
Tools → SWOOD CAM → Edgebands
SWOOD CAM – Edgeband Encoder
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Two new elements can be seen in the milling phase:
• Inserting code into the program.
• A new machining called "Edgebands”
2. Main window
There is no need to edit edgebands for every part. Once they've been set up correctly,
there's no need to modify them for future projects.
To access the main edgeband editing window, simply right-click and select "Edit", or double-
click on one of the two "edgeband" commands in the milling phase.
The main edgeband editing window is divided into 3 sections:
Toolbar
Graphics Area
Parameters
a. Toolbar
The toolbar of the main edgeband editing window contains just one command: the
edgeband encoding parameters.
b. Parameters
The edgeband parameters in this section depend on the edgeband applied to the panel.
SWOOD CAM – Edgeband Encoder
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The first parameter in the list is always " Positioning". This parameter allows you to choose
whether you wish to encode edgebands before or after machining.
i. Edgebands parameters
• The " Rank" parameter defines the position of the edgeband in relation to the
others. The order of the edgebands in the list displays the most "covered" edgebands
first, followed by the "covering" edgebands.
• The " Done before CNC" parameter is used to exclude this edgeband from
encoding, as it was done before the CNC.
Warning: Excluding a "covering" edgeband will exclude all covered edgebands.
Tip: The "Done before CNC" parameter can be set directly in the edgebands
library, so that it is automatically checked each time it is used.
• The other parameters are informative and cannot be modified, as they have already
been defined in the Edgebands Library.
ii. Edgeband finishing parameters (left or right)
Left and right edgeband finishing parameters are informative and cannot be modified, as
they have already been defined in the Edgebands Library.
c. Graphics Area
The Graphics Area shows the panel in top view from its program origin.
Edgebands are shown thicker, so that they can be easily located and overlaps clearly seen.
The Graphics Area can be zoomed in and out to highlight certain areas of the panel.
When an edgeband is clicked in the Graphics Area, its row number turns red and its
edgeband parameters are highlighted in the Parameters section.
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3. Edgeband encoding parameters
To access the edgeband encoding parameters, click on the single toolbar command in the
main edgeband editing window.
a. Global settings (B-SOLID and WOODWOP)
The global settings include the following parameters:
Icon Parameter name Description
Configuration
Allows the software to automatically reorder
Automatic order of
edgebands to optimize application and minimize tool
edgeband gluing
changes.
Uses the edgeband reference in the encoding, as
Use edgeband reference
defined in the edgeband library.
Defines whether the code is inserted at the
Default insertion location
beginning or at the end.
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Graphic display
Enable real thickness Displays edgebands at their actual thickness.
Defines zoom speed. The higher the value, the faster
Zoom speed
the zoom.
b. WOODWOP settings
The WOODWOD parameters are as follows:
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Icon Parameter name Description
Edgeband encoder parameters
Separates edgeband trimming (Bündigfräsen) into
Only on right angle several operations when the angle of intersection of
two edgebands is different than 90°.
Enable blowing Activates blowing operation (Abblasen)
Allows the same aggregate to be used for corner
Combine saw round
finishing. Also modifies the order of operations to
corner
optimize machine movements.
Adds a stop between edgeband trimming and
Enable stop
gluing
Macro
Adds a specific macro for right contouring all around
Right contouring
the part.
Blow Adds a specific macro for blowing.
Saw Adds a specific macro for the sawing operation.
Adds a specific macro for the right finishing
Right finishing operation, when performed by contouring with a
milling tool and on the right-hand side.
Adds a specific macro for the left finishing operation,
Left finishing when performed by contouring with a milling tool
and on the left-hand side.
Adds a specific macro for rounded corners when
Round corner
made with the aggregate.
Stop Adds a specific macro for the stop.
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Stock Adds a specific macro for stock.
Variables names
Defines the name of the edgeband thickness
parameter in the encoding.
Edgeband thickness
Warning: the name must not contain any
special characters.
Before and after CNC
Allows to specify edgebands placed before or after
CNC. If this option is checked, the module will adjust
the operation to avoid splintering edgebands.
Enable
If this box is checked, a window appears during
encoding, asking which edgebands are placed on
the CNC. Each edgeband is identified by a number.
Left contouring Adds a specific macro for partial left contouring.
Split distance Length of partial contouring on the left.
If left contouring is not possible, it can be replaced
Enable drilling method
by drilling to avoid splintering the edgeband.
WOODWOP tool number for edgeband drilling. Keep
Tool ID
0 if drilling is managed by diameter only.
Diameter of hole to be created. This parameter is
Diameter mandatory. It must be entered to place the hole in
WOODWOP.
c. Edgebands parameters (only for WOODWOP)
To edit the edgeband parameters, click on the button and another window will appear
showing all the edgebands available in the SWOOD Design Edgebands library.
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i. Editing an edgeband
Selecting an edgeband from the library on the left of the window brings up the following
parameters:
Icon Parameter name Description
Allows to assign the parameters already defined in a
Use extended properties template to this edgeband, instead of having to enter
them all several times.
If the previous parameter is unchecked :
Displays the edgeband name, as defined in the
Edgebands library.
Name
If the previous parameter is checked :
Selects the template to be used.
Gluing
Gluing type in WOODWOP
Easy edge Edge Power edge
Gluing type
Macro Adds a specific gluing macro.
Saw
Offset angle C Defines a global rotation angle for the saw.
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Distance of saw line from cut defined when
Offset when finishing
finish is "None".
Defines the saw line angle in relation to the
Offset angle when
defined cut when finishing is set to "None". This value
finishing
is the sum of offset angle C.
Enable before round Allows to make a rounding cut before round
finishing finishing.
Defines the distance of the saw line from the defined
Offset before finishing
cut when the finish is a rounded corner.
Angle of the saw line in relation to the defined cut
Offset angle before
when the finish is a rounded angle. This value is the
finishing
sum of the offset angle C.
When trimming is the finishing operation, this
Enable cut before flush parameter defines the order between trimming and
flush trimming.
Round corner
Enable round corner When the finishing is a rounded corner, it is possible
aggregate to use the aggregate or simply a milling cutter.
Flush trimming
Macro Adds a specific flush trimming macro.
When one edgeband overlaps another with a
rounded corner, anticipation can be used to reduce
Enable anticipation the risk of edgeband damage. It allows to modify the
C value before the corner and to adjust the feed
speed while the corner is being flush trimmed.
Enable techno
Uses WOODWOP or SWOOD model technologies.
parameters files
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Allows to modify and save a "Technologiemakro" in
Techno parameter files
WOODWOP as a .nca file.
Sets the distance from the anticipation starting point
Anticipation distance
to the corner.
Defines the speed of the aggregate at the
Anticipation Speed
anticipation starting point.
Anticipation offset Sets the angle of the anticipation offset.
Scraping (1 ou 2)
Adds the scraping operation (Bündigfräsen) at the
Enable scraping
end of the program (after flush trimming).
Macro Sets the scraping macro.
Allows to change the feed speed during corner
scraping. When one edgeband overlaps another
with a rounded corner, anticipation can be used to
reduce the risk of edgeband damage.
Enable Anticipation
The principle is very similar to that of flush trimming,
except that the "Technologiemakro" does not include
a C modification. It only manages the F value (Feed
rate). It only manages the F value (Feed rate).
Utiliser une macro Comme pour l'affleurage, utilise les technologies du
d’anticipation modèle WOODWOP ou SWOOD.
Allows to modify and save a "Technologiemakro" in
Techno parameter files
WOODWOP as a .nca file.
Sets the distance from the anticipation starting point
Anticipation distance
to the corner.
Defines the speed of the aggregate at the
Anticipation speed
anticipation starting point.
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Scraping 1 operations are performed counterclockwise (the tool is on the right). It can also
be used in a clockwise direction by activating scraping 2 and checking the Clockwise
parameter.
ii. Template management
To avoid modifying the parameters of each edgeband in the edgeband library, it is possible
to create templates that can be applied to several edgebands.
To create a template, simply click on the " New" button in the window's toolbar.
To delete a template, simply click on the " Delete" button in the window's toolbar.
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SWOOD CAM – Angle Finishing
With SWOOD 2024, a new operation has been developed to enable concave corners to be
completely machined using a conical milling cutter. This operation is called " Angle
Finishing".
To be effective, this operation is generally used after a "Resume pocket angles" or "Resume
angles using radius compensation" operation.
Finishing a pocket corner
I. How to use
1. Operation application
The operation can be applied to the following machining:
Icon Machining name
Profile
Closed sketch
Open sketch
Auto pocket
Closed pocket
Open pocket
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2. Operation creation
Once you have chosen a machining and a compatible tool (Chamfering cutter or Engraving
cutter), simply select the "Angle finishing" operation and "add" it.
3. Operation parameters
The " Angle finishing " operation contains the following specific parameters:
Side edge length: Size at which machining starts; depends on the diameter of previous tools.
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a. Transitions
Diagonal transition Zigzag transition
Straight transition between two corners to be Zigzag transition between two corners to be
machined. machined.
b. Mid-angle trajectories
Without mid-angle trajectory With mid-angle trajectory
WITHOUT machining on the bisector of the WITH machining on the bisector of the angle
angle of each corner to be machined. of each corner to be machined.
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4. Results
With this new feature, pockets with internal corners can now be completely machined.
Without angle finishing With angle finishing
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SWOOD CAM - Corner Notching
A new machining operation has been integrated into SWOOD CAM 2024, the " Corner
Notching". This operation is the cousin of the Angle Finishing operation, but this time it is
used to machine the corners of through-hole profiles, using an angled tool. This operation
can be performed after a simple "Contouring" operation.
Squaring an inside corner of a through profile
I. How to use
1. Operation application
The operation can be applied to the following machinings:
Icon Machining name
Profile
Closed sketch
2. Operation creation
Once a machining entity and a saw-type tool (preferably on an angled aggregate) has
been chosen, simply select the " Corner Notching" operation and "add" it.
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3. Operation parameters
The " Corner Notching" operation contains the following specific parameters:
a. Automatic distance to angle activated
By activating this button, the operation uses the diameter of the previous tool to
calculate the distances to the corner, left and right.
b. Automatic distance to angle deactivated
If the button is disabled, the left and right corner distances must be entered manually,
using the "Distance to angle on left side" and "Right corner distance" parameters.
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4. Results
With this new feature, it is now possible to completely machine profiles with internal angles.
Without Corner Notching With Corner Notching
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SWOOD CAM – Clamex with milling tool
For several versions of SWOOD CAM, it has been possible to create machining operations
with a blade, using Clamex connectors. With SWOOD CAM 2024, it is now possible to create
these machining operations with a milling tool, whether in 3-axis or 5-axis mode.
Example of Clamex machining with milling tool
I. How to use
1. Operation application
The " Clamex with milling tool" operation can be applied to a manual or automatic
Clamex machining.
2. Operation creation
Simply select the " Clamex with milling tool" operation and "add" it.
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3. Operation parameters
The " Clamex with milling tool" operation contains the following specific parameters:
a. Lead In & Out distance
10
Arc length of machining outside Clamex.
b. 3 / 5 axis milling
The machining button is used to switch between 3-axis and 5-axis machining.
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3 axis milling 5 axis milling
Angles B and C remain at zero during Angles B and C change to keep the tool axis
machining perpendicular to the surface to be machined
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SWOOD CAM - New automatic orientation
strategies
When creating the origins of a part, it is possible to select the positioning method based on
automatic recognition (especially for users who do not have SWOOD Design). SWOOD
CAM 2024 includes groove recognition options, enabling both the definition of the groove to
be recognized for positioning and the orientation of the groove. This last option is particularly
relevant for companies using vertical machines, or machines processing all six sides of
parts.
Setting automatic positioning rules
I. How to use
1. Creation of automatic positioning rules
To create automatic positioning rules, it is necessary to:
• Open a SWOOD panel.
• Créer une phase d’usinage.
• Click on the " Origins" toolbar button.
• Select " Based on automatic recognition" mode.
• In "Strategy", click on the edit button.
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• Create a new configuration.
• In " X choice", select "Longest groove".
2. Groove orientation parameter
The following options are available for " Groove orientation”:
Downwards Upwards
The longest groove is positioned at the The longest groove is positioned at the top of
bottom of the panel in relation to its origin the panel in relation to its origin
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SWOOD CAM - Simplified access to "Tools
synchronization" and "CAM copy"
SWOOD CAM offers additional tools to make life easier for certain users, such as the "Tools
synchronization" tool and the "CAM copy" tool. SWOOD CAM 2024 provides simplified access
to these tools, directly in the software interface.
Direct access to tool commands
I. Tools Synchronization
This utility helps to recreate a machine's tool library in the SWOOD CAM tool library.
1. Open "Tools synchronization”
From SWOOD 2024, this utility can be opened from the SolidWorks menu bar:
Tools → SWOOD CAM → Utility → Tools Synchronization
II. CAM copy
This utility is used to copy machining operations from a part or assembly into a file or set of
files in a single action.
1. Open “CAM copy”
From SWOOD 2024, this utility can be opened from the SolidWorks menu bar:
Tools → SWOOD CAM → Utility → CAM copy
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SWOOD CAM – Report option if no machining to
be encoded
Since SWOOD 2024, it is possible to create a customizable event in the report when there is
no machining to code. This can be particularly useful for companies that automate SWOOD
CAM, using part or assembly models that already have automatic machining. This new
feature will warn them at report time if certain parts do not need to be machined.
Program initialization window with warning selection
I. How to use
1. Display report errors during generation
Before you can see the effects of this feature, you need to:
• Open SWOOD CAM options (Tools → SWOOD CAM → Options).
• In the "Report" section, check the "Display report errors during generation" parameter.
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2. Generating a program without machining
To select the warning to be displayed when a program is encoded in the report but does not
contain any machining to be coded, it is necessary to:
• Open a part or an assembly.
• Create a new milling phase.
• In the "Report Options" section, there is the " No machining to encode alert"
parameter.
• Select "None" or "Error" option.
II. Result
According to one or other option, with a program that has no machining to code, the results
will be as follows:
1. If None is checked
If the " No machining to encode alert" report option is set to "None".
In this case, when a report is generated, there are no errors, either during or after generation.
During the generation
After the generation
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2. If Error is checked
If the " No machining to encode alert" report option is set to "Error".
In this case, when a report is generated, an error occurs on the loading bar during
generation. There are several errors after generation: in the general parameters, and in the
part program.
During the generation
After the generation
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SWOOD CAM – Use SWOOD Design stock
extension
Since version 2024 of SWOOD CAM, it is possible to choose whether or not to take into
account the SWOOD Design stock extension in a milling phase. This can be very useful when
processing a part in several steps, for example, when cutting a panel to which wood veneers
have been glued. In previous versions, this raw material extension was always taken into
account.
I. How to use
1. Stock extension in SWOOD Design
To use this feature, the panel must first have stock extensions, to do this it is necessary to:
• Editing a panel.
• In the Materials section, add a Stock extension.
2. Use or not stock extension
To use or not the SWOOD Design stock extension in a machining phase, it is necessary to:
• Create a milling phase.
• Click on the " Origins" command.
• Select the position " Based on SWOOD Design panel".
• In the "Stock" section, check or uncheck the "Use stock extension" button.
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SWOOD CAM – Custom operations names
In this new version of SWOOD CAM, it is possible to modify the names of machining
operations according to multiple filters. The names of these operations will be displayed as
they are in the generated programs. This can be particularly useful for companies wishing
to sort certain programs according to the custom names created.
I. How to use
To create custom operations names, it is necessary to:
• Open SWOOD CAM options (Tools → SWOOD CAM → Settings).
• In the CAM section, click on the "Custom Operations Names" editing command.
A window opens, allowing to create custom operations names.
1. Interface
The window for creating custom operations names is divided into two sections:
Toolbar
List of names
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a. Toolbar
The toolbar of the custom operations names window includes the following commands:
Icon Parameter name Description
New Create a new custom operation name (a new line).
Delete Deletes the selected custom name.
Copy Duplicates the selected custom name.
b. List of names
Once a name has been created, fill in the parameters of the following columns:
Column name Description
Operations Selects the machining operation to be renamed.
Names Allows to write a custom name.
(Optional) Selects the machining to which the name will be
Machinings filters
applied.
(Optional) Selects the type of tool to which the name will be
Tools filtresfilters
applied.
(Optional) Selects the machine (post-processor) to which the
Machines filtresfilters
name will be applied.
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2. Result
When an operation has a custom operation name, the following effects can be seen:
Without custom operation name With custom operation name
No changes at the time of operation Name modified at time of operation
creation and at the time of coding. creation and at time of coding.
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SWOOD Nesting – Ignore grain direction
This new feature allows you to ignore the grain direction if this improves nesting
optimization. This feature can be used for parts that will not be visible, such as hidden backs
or side panels.
Example of a Nesting project where the grain direction has been ignored
I. How to use
1. Manual parameter
The first way to apply the "Ignore grain direction" parameter is to check it in the parameters
of each part to be nested. To do this, it is necessary to:
• Creating a Nesting project (Tools → SWOOD CAM → Nesting).
• Inserting parts to be nested in the project.
• Go to the "Parts for nesting" folder.
• Select the part(s) to be nested.
• At the bottom of the Nesting parameters, check the "Ignore grain direction"
parameter.
• Rebuild the Nesting project.
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2. Automatic parameter
It is possible to make the process a little more automatic by using custom properties for
SolidWorks parts.
To do this, it is necessary to:
• Open the panel where you want to ignore the grain.
• Open "File properties".
• Click on the "Custom" tab, or the "Configuration Specific" tab.
• Add a new property:
Name Type Value
IGNORE_GRAIN_DIRECTION “Text” (or “Yes or no”) Yes (to activate)
Once this property has been set, the next time Nesting is optimized, the part to be nested
will be automatically checked.
II. Result
If the "ignore grain direction" parameter is checked on a part to be nested, then the nesting
algorithm will no longer take grain direction into account for this part and will optimize part
orientation only according to general nesting parameters (such as " Rotation step").
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SWOOD Nesting – Forcing four corners in part
types
This new feature has been created to automatically activate the "Four Corners" mode via "
Part types". This mode places parts differently from normal mode, helping to hold small
parts securely on the plate during machining.
“Four corner" part layout
I. Parts layout
The layout of the parts is as follows:
Regular layout Four corner layout
The parts to be nested are positioned The parts to be nested are positioned
starting from the selected corner in alternately in the four corners of the plate in
descending order of size. descending order of size.
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II. How to use
In order to force the "Four corner" layout in the "Part types", it is necessary to:
• Create a Nesting project (Tools → SWOOD CAM → Nesting).
• In the Nesting window toolbar, click on " Part types".
• If no part type exists, create a new part type.
• In the "Nesting" section, check the "Force four corner" box.
Once the box is checked, another box appears: "Force four corner on last sheet".
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SWOOD Nesting – Disable program recalculation
SWOOD 2024 innovates with a feature designed to further improve nesting efficiency: the
option to deactivate automatic recalculation of programs when they are created or
modified. This technical innovation specifically targets the challenges associated with the
nesting of major components, where recalculation time represents a significant part of the
process. Secure and reliable, this function ensures that recalculations are only triggered
during program encoding or report generation, optimizing workflow without compromising
accuracy. An innovation that promises to transform Nesting management, significantly
reducing processing times and boosting productivity.
I. How to use
To deactivate program recalculation, it is necessary to:
• Create a Nesting project (Tools → SWOOD CAM → Nesting).
• In the Nesting project window, go to the "Machining" section and check the "Disable
machining rebuild" box.
From now on, CAM programs will not be recalculated when the Nesting assembly is created.
They will only be rebuilt under three conditions:
• If you manually rebuild the program.
• If you encode the program.
• If you generate a report.
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SWOOD Report – System Report
SWOOD 2024's all-new functionality radically transforms the way professionals interact with
their data, thanks to the introduction of system reporting. Designed to suit any company
looking to optimize its processes, this innovation is based on a remarkably intuitive user
interface accessible from any web browser. What really sets this feature apart is its ability
to enable unprecedented customization of data and document display. With just a few
clicks, users can modify the appearance of their reports to better suit their specific needs,
making workflow not only smoother but also more efficient. This breakthrough illustrates
SWOOD's commitment to providing solutions that not only improve productivity, but also
transform the way companies manage and present their critical data.
Example of a page in the system report
To see a presentation of the system report, you can watch this video.
To go further in the configuration of the system report, please consult this page:
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I. How to use
1. System report installation
a. Activation
To take full advantage of this new system report, you first need to activate the system report.
To do this, it is necessary to:
• Open the " Settings" window in SWOOD Design or SWOOD CAM.
• In the "Report" section, click on the system report edit button.
• Activate “System Report”.
To better understand how to activate the system report, you can watch this video.
b. System report generation
As for generating a classic report, go to the menu bar and select:
Tools → SWOOD Design (or SWOOD CAM) → Report
In the report window, expand " Documents" and open the HTML page "
SYSTEM_REPORT".
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2. System report interface
The system report page is divided into 4 sections:
Menu bar
Export bar
Data display
Data
category
panel
• Menu bar (top): Displays the company logo, the name of the current project and, on
the right, the parameters.
• Data category panel (left): Displays data categories on the main view (the choice of
categories to be displayed is made in the parameters).
• Export bar (below menu bar): Enables the user to export the data displayed in the
main view, as a printout or CSV export.
• Data display: Main data view, depending on the data category selected in the left
panel.
a. Parameters
To access the parameters, click on the gear on the far right of the menu bar (accessible
on all pages). Settings have three tabs:
i. General parameters
In the general parameters, it is possible to import an existing configuration and set display
parameters such as language, units of length, etc...
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ii. Data
In this window, it is possible to choose which data categories will be displayed in the data
category panel (left).
On the right-hand side, the available data can be transferred to the left-hand side, with
the data categories displayed. Alternatively, you can hide certain data categories with the
button to the right.
The order of data categories can be changed by dragging and dropping, while holding
down the six dots.
These categories will be displayed in the data category panel only if the displayed project
contains data.
To better understand how to add a new data category to your system report, watch this
video.
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iii. Print settings
In this window, it is possible to set print parameters, such as header image, specific table
views, etc…
b. Data categories
Data categories display project data by type of information.
i. Permanent categories
There are 3 categories that are always present, whatever the project data:
Project History: This category shows all projects that have been opened previously.
It is also possible to import a project that has been generated by another PC. To do this, click
on "Project file" or drag and drop on this section. The file extension to be imported is SWR
(specific to SWOOD system reports).
Project: This category displays the current project with project image, report path and
SolidWorks file path.
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Summary: The "Summary" category of data sums up the costs of all types of data, such
as edgebands, materials, cutting patterns, machining, etc…
ii. Project categories
Numerous categories can be displayed in the category panel, such as assemblies,
panels, stock, hardware, edgebands, programs, etc…
It is possible to choose which categories are to be displayed in the panel, and in which order,
from the "Data" tab of the settings.
c. Data display
Except for certain data categories such as Project, Cutting Plan and Summary, all
data categories are presented in table format.
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i. Manipulating tables
Data tables have been created to display the values most relevant to users. These tables
can therefore be customized.
The table interface is divided into 3 sections:
Filter bar
Data columns
Page management
• Filter bar
In this section, you can customize the display of data columns. Several tools are available
for this purpose (from left to right):
o Views
A view is a kind of "snapshot" of a table in a particular state, with its columns and filters.
You can display a preset view by clicking on the down arrow and selecting it.
The following view options are available:
Icon Option name Description
Modify view parameters by adding one or more
View settings
custom columns
Save as Saves the display status of the panel in a new view
Adds or removes this view to the data category
Add to favorites / Remove
favorites, directly accessible from the data category
from favorites
panel
Delete Deletes the selected view from the saved views
To better understand how to add a new view to a table, you can watch this video.
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o Modify columns
When you click on the " Modify columns" button, a panel appears on the right with two
tabs:
▪ Sort
This tab allows you to change the column order by simply dragging and dropping existing
columns. You can even add an empty column.
To better understand how to manage current columns in a table, watch this video.
▪ Add/Remove.
This tab lets you add or remove columns from the current view. In this tab, you can find all
report parameters, and turn them into a column.
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To better understand how to add a new column to a table, you can watch this video.
o Filters
It is possible to display the contents of columns by filtering according to certain rules. When
you click on " Filter", a window opens, offering you to apply filters or groups of filters.
To better understand how to create and apply filters to a table view, watch this video.
To better understand how to remove a filter from a table view, watch this video.
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o Lines height
It is possible to adjust the height of lines in the table display according to 3 different
heights: compact, medium, or spaced.
To better understand how to adjust the height of the lines in a table, you can watch this
video.
o Search bar
You can easily find a table element using the search bar. This search is not case-sensitive.
You can enter only part of the word you are looking for.
• Data columns
The data columns section displays the selected columns with their respective filters.
Next to each column name, as you move the cursor closer, a downward arrow appears. By
clicking on it, several options are available:
Icon Option name Description
Sorts each line of the table from the smallest value to
Ascending sorting the largest. If the row is composed of text, sort in
alphabetical order.
Sorts each line of the table from the largest value to
Descending sort the smallest. If the row is composed of text, sorts in
reverse alphabetical order.
Create a filter that applies only to values of the
column.
Create filter
Warning: column filters will not be saved in the
view.
Rename column Allows to rename the column.
To better understand how to rename a table column, watch this video.
o Column width adjustment
Column widths can be adjusted to display data more clearly. Several options are available:
▪ Manual column adjustment
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When the mouse cursor is close to the separation between two columns on the column
header line, the cursor becomes an adjustment tool. This allows you to enlarge or reduce
the column width.
▪ Automatic column adjustment
When the column width adjustment tool is visible when double-clicked, the column
width automatically adjusts to the most suitable width, allowing the text in that column to
be read at its best.
▪ Automatic adjustment of all columns
If you place the mouse cursor to the far right of the column heading line, when you double-
click on the adjustment tool, the width of all table columns is suddenly adjusted to the space
required for reading the data.
ii. Favorites management
As we saw earlier, it is possible to set a view as a favorite. Once a favorite has been created,
we can see it appear in the data category menu.
Clicking on this favorite directly from the data category menu opens the favorite table in
read-only mode and displays a menu bar above the table.
Icon Option name Description
CSV export Allows you to export table contents in CSV format.
Print Allows you to print the contents of the table.
Allows you to edit the table view, adding or deleting
Modify the view
columns, filters, etc.
Remove from favorites Removes the view from the favorites list.
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SWOOD Report – Cutting Pattern
SWOOD 2024 enhances its functionality with a tool from the SWOOD report: the creation of
a cutting diagram for the panels used, accessible without the need for a SWOOD CAM
Nesting license. This function is based on advanced panel optimization, using data from the
material and board library, offering double added value. On the one hand, it provides a
precise estimate of the number of sheets needed to complete a project, enabling a more
accurate evaluation of the associated costs. Secondly, it generates a detailed cutting
diagram, which can be used directly in the workshop for manual sawing of panels. This
innovation represents a step forward in resource optimization and project planning,
simplifying the preparation and management of materials in the production process.
Example of a project cutting pattern
For a presentation of the cutting diagram, watch this video.
I. How to use
1. Cutting pattern activation
a. Cutting pattern generation
To activate this cutting pattern feature, you must first activate the system report.
Next, you need to configure the system report.
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In the "Report configuration" window, click on " Global variables" in the left-hand panel.
In the "Cutting pattern" section, change the cutting pattern condition. Write TRUE (instead of
FALSE).
The rest of the parameters in the "Cutting pattern" section can be modified to fine-tune the
optimization result, such as saw thickness or cutting margins.
b. Board creation
The second step is to create boards from the Materials library. To do this, it is necessary
to:
• Go to the SWOOD library .
• Go to Materials library .
• Right-click on a material and click on " Edit".
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• In the toolbar of the Materials Library window, click on the " Board Library" button
(available even when SWOOD CAM is not activated).
• In this board library, create a new board and fill in at least the following five
parameters:
o « For Board Estimation», this parameter activates the board for the cutting
pattern.
o “ Length” of the board used.
o “ Width” of the board used.
o “ Thickness” of the board used.
o “ Materials” of the board used.
• Validate both windows.
c. Displaying the Cutting pattern in the system report
The final step is to integrate the Cutting Pattern into the system report, so that it can be
visualized. To do this, it is necessary to:
• Generate a report.
• In the report window, expand " Documents" and open the HTML page "
SYSTEM_REPORT".
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• On the report page (for more details, see the System Report chapter), go to
parameters.
• In the parameters, go to the "Data" tab.
• Locate " Cutting-pattern" and click the left arrow button.
• Click on the "Apply" button (bottom right). Now the " Cutting-pattern" tab is
available on the left panel.
• Click on the " Cutting-pattern" tab.
2. Cutting pattern interface
The " Cutting-pattern" tab is divided into 4 sections:
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Board list
Board type name
Cutting list
Cutting pattern
• Board list: Displays all board types present in the project. You can switch from one
to another simply by clicking on it.
• Board type name: Displays the name of the selected board type.
• Cutting pattern: Graphic area where the parts are positioned on the board.
• Cutting list: Displays the order of the main cuts, followed by the secondary cuts.
Clicking on a cut displays it in the graphic area of the cutting pattern.
By navigating with the ↑up and ↓down arrows on the keyboard, it's possible to switch from
one cut to another.
3. Export
The cutting pattern can be exported simply by clicking on the "Print" button at the top left of
the cutting pattern.
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Print
This will create a layout ready for printing or saving as a PDF. This can be very useful to
transfer to the workshop.
SWOOD Report – Cutting Pattern