ArtCAM 2D

User Guide

By Delcam plc

Issue: 1.0 Released: 24/10/01

Disclaimer
Delcam plc has no control over the use made of the
software described in this manual and cannot accept
responsibility for any loss or damage howsoever caused
as a result of using the software. Users are advised that all
the results from the software should be checked by a
competent person, in accordance with good quality
control procedures.
Information contained in this manual is subject to change
without notice and does not represent a commitment by
Delcam plc. The software described in this manual is
furnished under licence agreement and may be used or
copied in accordance with the terms of such licence. No
part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted in
any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical,
including photocopying and recording, for any purpose
without the express permission of Delcam plc.

Copyright © 2001 Delcam plc. All rights reserved.

Delcam plc
Talbot Way
Small Heath Business Park
Birmingham B10 OHJ
England
Tel: (UK) 0121-766-5544
(Int) +44 (0) 121-766-5544
Contents

Overview 1
ArtCAM 2D Overview ..................................................................1
Information about ArtCAM 2D .....................................................2
Comparing Vector and Bitmap Data..............................................2
Vector Data .........................................................................3
Bitmap Data ........................................................................4

ArtCAM 2D Layout 5
ArtCAM 2D Layout.......................................................................5
Adjusting the Window View .........................................................8
2D View Manipulation ..................................................................9
3D View........................................................................9
Zoom In....................................................................... 10
Zoom Out Tool............................................................ 10
Zoom Previous ............................................................ 11
Window Fit ................................................................. 11
Zoom Object(s) ........................................................... 11
Scrolling the 2D View ....................................................... 11
2D View Options......................................................................... 12
Using Rulers...................................................................... 12
Using the Snap Grid .......................................................... 13
Using Guidelines ............................................................... 17
Snapping to Objects........................................................... 20
3D View Manipulation ................................................................ 21
2D View...................................................................... 21
Twiddle Tool............................................................... 22
Pan View..................................................................... 22
Zoom........................................................................... 22
Zoom Out .................................................................... 23
Scale To Fit ................................................................. 23

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Contents • i

 Isometric View............................................................ 23
View Along X ............................................................. 23
View Along Y ............................................................. 23
View Along Z.............................................................. 23
Origin.......................................................................... 23
Objects To Draw ......................................................... 24

Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 27

Overview..................................................................................... 27
Aston Martin DB5 ....................................................................... 27
Preparing the Model .......................................................... 28
Creating a Frame for the Sign............................................ 29
Importing the Vector Artwork ........................................... 34
Creating the Vector Text ................................................... 36
Wrapping the Vector Text ................................................. 37
Creating an Offset Vector .................................................. 38
Machining the Vectors....................................................... 41
Marking the Drill Holes with Circles................................. 52
Creating the Drill Holes..................................................... 54
Saving the Toolpaths ......................................................... 58

Tutorial – 3D Bevelled Carving 63

Overview..................................................................................... 63
Bevelled Letter B......................................................................... 63
Preparing the Model .......................................................... 64
Creating the Vector Text ................................................... 65
Machining the Vector Text ................................................ 66
Saving the Toolpaths ......................................................... 72

Tutorial – Bridging 77
Overview..................................................................................... 77
Bridged Letter B.......................................................................... 77
Preparing the Model .......................................................... 77
Creating the Vector Text ................................................... 78
Machining the Vector Text ................................................ 80
Adding the Bridges............................................................ 84
Editing the Bridges ............................................................ 86
Saving the Toolpath........................................................... 92

ii • Contents ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 Tutorial – Engraving 95
Overview..................................................................................... 95
Engraved Text ............................................................................. 95
Preparing the Model .......................................................... 96
Defining the Outer-Edge of the Engraved Area ................. 97
Creating the Vector Text ................................................... 98
Machining the Model ........................................................ 99
Saving the Toolpaths ....................................................... 105

Tutorial – ArtTrace 109

Overview................................................................................... 109
Converting a Bitmap to Vector Objects ..................................... 109
Preparing the Model ........................................................ 110
Opening the Bitmap File in ArtTrace............................... 111
Reducing the Colours in the Bitmap Image...................... 112
Linking the Colours......................................................... 113
Creating the Vector Objects............................................. 114
Exporting the Vector Objects to ArtCAM 2D.................. 116

Tutorial – Nesting Vectors 121

Overview................................................................................... 121
Nesting Vectors ......................................................................... 121
Preparing the Model ........................................................ 122
Defining the Material Shape ............................................ 123
Creating the Vector Text ................................................. 125
Nesting the Vector Text................................................... 126
Machining the Nested Vector Text .................................. 128
Saving the Toolpath......................................................... 131

Working with Models 133

Getting Started........................................................................... 133
Creating a Model ............................................................. 133
Opening an Existing Model ............................................. 135
Opening the Last Model .................................................. 136
Closing a Model .............................................................. 136
Shutting Down ArtCAM 2D............................................ 137
Managing a Model..................................................................... 138
Creating a New Model..................................................... 139
Opening a Model ............................................................. 139
Saving a Model................................................................ 140

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Contents • iii

 Editing the Model Dimensions ........................................ 141
Importing Vector Files..................................................... 142
Exporting Vector Files..................................................... 143
Correcting an Action ....................................................... 144
Mirroring a Model ........................................................... 144
Rotating a Model ............................................................. 145

Working with Vectors 147

Drawing using Vectors .............................................................. 147
Vector Editing Tools ....................................................... 147
Creating a Polyline .......................................................... 148
Completing Polyline Creation.......................................... 149
Closing a Polyline to Create a Polygon............................ 150
Amending a Polyline ....................................................... 151
Selecting Vectors............................................................. 151
Moving Vectors............................................................... 153
Editing Vector Spans....................................................... 154
Editing Vector Nodes ...................................................... 162
Creating Simple Closed Shapes ................................................. 167
Creating a Rectangle........................................................ 168
Creating a Circle.............................................................. 172
Creating an Ellipse .......................................................... 176
Creating a Polygon .......................................................... 180
Creating a Star................................................................. 184
Editing Vector Objects .............................................................. 188
Copying and Pasting Vector Objects ............................... 189
Offsetting Vector Objects ................................................ 193
Smoothing Vector Objects............................................... 195
Locking and Unlocking Vector Objects........................... 198
Fitting Arcs to Vector Objects ......................................... 200
Pasting Vectors Along a Curve........................................ 202
Working with Vector Text......................................................... 204
Creating Vector Text ....................................................... 204
Selecting Vector Text ...................................................... 206
Editing Vector Text ......................................................... 207
Formatting Vector Text ................................................... 210
Wrapping Text round a Curve ......................................... 214
Measuring Vector Objects ......................................................... 219
Transforming Vector Objects .................................................... 220
Scaling Vectors................................................................ 222
Moving Vectors............................................................... 224
Rotating Vectors.............................................................. 225

iv • Contents ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 Shearing Vectors ............................................................. 226
Manipulating Vector Objects..................................................... 228
Mirroring Vectors............................................................ 228
Aligning Vectors ............................................................. 232
Centring Vectors.............................................................. 234
Nesting Vectors ............................................................... 236
Merging Vectors.............................................................. 240
Joining Vectors................................................................ 244
Closing Vectors ............................................................... 246
Grouping Vector Objects........................................................... 248
Resizing a Grouped Vector Object .................................. 251
Viewing the Properties of a Vector Object................................. 253
Reversing a Vector Object’s Direction of Geometry.................. 254
Ungrouped Vectors.......................................................... 254
Grouped Vectors.............................................................. 256

Machining Models 259

Machining a Model.................................................................... 259
Using Toolpath Strategies.......................................................... 261
Profiling .......................................................................... 262
2D Area Clearance .......................................................... 270
V-Bit or Centreline Carving............................................. 275
3D Bevelled Carving ....................................................... 278
Engraving ........................................................................ 284
Centreline Engraved Feature ........................................... 290
Inlay Wizard.................................................................... 293
Drill Holes....................................................................... 322
Adding Bridging........................................................................ 327
Editing Bridging .............................................................. 328
Setting the Profile Machining Order .......................................... 331
Adjusting the Machining Parameters ......................................... 333
Adjusting Machining Parameters When Creating a
Toolpath .......................................................................... 334
Adjusting Machining Parameters in a Created Toolpath .. 335
Simulating Toolpaths................................................................. 337
Viewing a Toolpath ......................................................... 338
Hiding a Toolpath............................................................ 342
Editing a Toolpath ..................................................................... 344
Saving a Toolpath...................................................................... 345
Deleting Toolpaths .................................................................... 348
Deleting a Toolpath ......................................................... 348
Deleting a Toolpath Group .............................................. 350

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Contents • v

 Using a Toolpath Summary ....................................................... 351
Using the Tool Groups Database ............................................... 355
Adding a Tool.................................................................. 356
Editing a Tool.................................................................. 357
Deleting a Tool................................................................ 361
Adding a Tool Group....................................................... 361

ArtTrace 363
Using ArtTrace.......................................................................... 363
Importing a Bitmap Image......................................................... 363
Setting the Image Size and Origin ............................................. 364
Working with Colours ............................................................... 366
Selecting the Primary and Secondary Colours ................. 367
Reducing Colours ............................................................ 367
Colour Merging ............................................................... 368
Colour Linking ................................................................ 369
Edge Marking.................................................................. 370
Colour Thinning .............................................................. 371
Colour Thickening........................................................... 372
Adding Colours ............................................................... 374
Editing a Bitmap Image ............................................................. 375
Using the Paint Brush ...................................................... 376
Flood Filling.................................................................... 378
Converting a Bitmap into Vectors.............................................. 379
Editing the Vector Objects............................................... 381
Exporting Vectors to ArtCAM 2D............................................. 382

ArtSpool 385
Using ArtSpool.......................................................................... 385
Setting Up ArtSpool .................................................................. 385
Selecting the Communication Settings............................. 386
Selecting the Spool Directory .......................................... 388
Sending Toolpath Files.............................................................. 389
Deleting Toolpath Files ............................................................. 391

Index 393

vi • Contents ArtCAM 2D User Guide

Overview

ArtCAM 2D Overview
ArtCAM 2D is a powerful 2.5D machining solution for
professional CNC engravers and router users. Designs
can be created using ArtCAM 2D’s comprehensive vector
drawing tools or imported from other graphics packages
as *.eps, *.dxf or *.ai files. Bitmap images and scans
(*.bmp, *.tif, *.jpg and *.gif) can also be imported,
vectorized and edited.
ArtCAM 2D handles complex designs with ease and
provides flexible machining strategies that are fast,
accurate and, most importantly, very reliable. Integrated
Nesting automatically positions multiple objects inside a
user-definable block of material, ensuring minimal
material wastage when the objects are manufactured.
Realistic 3D toolpath simulation can be used to verify all
toolpaths, and visualise the end product, before sending
them to the CNC machine.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Overview • 1

Information about ArtCAM 2D
You can find information about the features in ArtCAM
2D from the following sources:
1. The ArtCAM 2D Assistant (In-line Help).
2. The ArtCAM 2D User Guide (this manual).
3. The On-line Help pages.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide

This manual provides you with instructions on how
to create and manipulate a 2D model, and then
machine it. Further information can be found in the
On-line Help pages.
This User Guide is divided into the following parts:
• Overview
• ArtCAM 2D Layout
• Tutorials
• Working With Models
• Working With Vectors
• Machining Models
• ArtTrace
• ArtSpool

Comparing Vector and Bitmap Data

Vectors and bitmaps are two different methods of
reproducing particular types of images. Although
ArtCAM 2D uses vector objects to generate 2D models,
the ArtTrace tool available within the application allows
you to convert a bitmap image to a vector object.
For details, see “Using ArtTrace” in the ArtTrace chapter.

2 • Overview ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 Vector Data Bitmap Data

Vector Data
Vector data is defined mathematically by a drawing
language. Objects are geometrical, being made up of a
number of points mapped on a grid connected by lines or
curves. In being geometrical objects, vectors are
extremely flexible and can be manipulated with both ease
and accuracy.
The amount of data required to display all of the
attributes of a vector object is very little, so graphics
made up of vector objects can have very small file sizes.
As the objects become more complex, the sizes increase.
You may also infer from the images above that vector
data is ideal for producing smooth features. The vector
letter not only has greater definition than the bitmap, the
geometry of the vector object can also be used to drive an
assigned machining tool directly, which, in turn, produces
a far superior finish.
ArtCAM 2D can read files containing vector data saved
in the following formats:
• Drawing Interchange files, including
PowerSHAPE and AutoCAD 2D (.dxf)
• PostScript format (.eps)
• Adobe Illustrator image (.ai)
• Windows Metafile (.wmf)
• DUCT picture (.pic)

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Overview • 3

 Bitmap Data
Bitmap data is made up of a set of binary values
specifying the colour of individual pixels (picture
elements) that make up an image. Bitmap data is
characterised by resolution and bit depth.
Resolution relates to the detail in an image and is
expressed in dots per inch (.dpi) or pixels per inch (.ppi).
The higher the resolution (i.e. the more dots used to
describe the image), the more detail possible.
Bit depth has to do with the number of colours the image
can display. Bits are the building blocks of binary data. A
black and white image is 1 bit, meaning it can be off or
on, black or white. As bit depth increases, more colours
are available.
Unlike vector data, bitmap data is large. For example, a
simple object like the letter in the previous image is
32,838 bytes as vector data in ArtCAM 2D. When
rasterized (changed to a bitmap), the file size changes to
40,078 bytes in ArtCAM 2D. For small compositions the
increase in file size may not matter greatly, but for larger
compositions the difference in file size seriously impacts
machining times.
ArtCAM 2D can read bitmap files generated by other
drawing and desktop publishing packages or those
scanned from paper based artwork saved in any of the
following formats:
• Windows Bitmap (.bmp)
• TIFF image (.tif)
• PCX image (.pcx)
• CompuServe image (.gif)
• JPEG image (.jpg)

4 • Overview ArtCAM 2D User Guide

ArtCAM 2D Layout

ArtCAM 2D Layout
The ArtCAM 2D screen layout has been designed to let
you work effectively and efficiently.
The hub of ArtCAM 2D is the innovative Assistant
window. When you have an open model, the
Assistant’s Home page displays a collection of tools to
help you create, edit and machine a 2D design. These
tools appear in the form of buttons.
Grouped in a logical arrangement, you are able to
navigate to the button that you require quickly. To find
out more about a button, click on it to display a page in
the Assistant window showing In-line Help. The In-line
Help informs you of exactly where, when and how to use
the button, thus reducing the learning curve.
The screen layout is divided into four regions:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide ArtCAM 2D Layout • 5

 1. Main menu bar – Click on a menu item to
display a drop-down menu that contains a range
of sub-menus and commands relating to the
features in ArtCAM 2D. If an item in a menu is
greyed-out, then it is does not apply to the
currently active 2D View.
2. Assistant Window – On starting ArtCAM
2D, the Assistant’s Getting Started page is
displayed. This page contains three icons. These
allow you to create a new model or work on an
existing model. When a model has been created
or opened, the Assistant’s Home page is
displayed.
The Assistant’s Home page contains buttons
for each of the features in ArtCAM 2D, as well
as a summary of your model dimensions. For
almost every button you click on, a
corresponding interactive In-line Help page is
automatically displayed in its place.
These buttons are divided into five areas:
• File – You can use these buttons to manage
your model files, as well as vector and
bitmap files that you want to use as part of a
model.

6 • ArtCAM 2D Layout ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 • Vector Editing – You can use these
buttons to create vector objects in the form
of shapes or text, as well as measure and
manipulate the vector objects you create as
part of your model.
• Position Size Align Vectors – You can
use these buttons to transform, mirror, align,
centre and nest the vector objects you create
as part of your model.
• Group Merge Join Vectors – You can
use these buttons to group, merge and join
the vector objects you create as part of your
model.
• Toolpaths – You can use these buttons to
create a toolpath for the model you want to
machine, drill holes, create bridging, manage
the machining order, produce a toolpath
summary, and manage a database for the
tools you want to use when machining.
You can change the appearance of the
Assistant’s Home page in the following ways:

• Click on the Toggle Display icon to

reveal or hide text labels naming each of the
buttons on the Assistant’s Home page.
• Click on the appropriate arrow to hide or
reveal options and reference material in
any given area of the Assistant’s Home
page.
You can also change the appearance of each
page displayed in the Assistant window when
you click on any of the buttons on the
Assistant’s Home page:
• Click on to hide all In-line Help
shown on the page.
You can also click on the icon in the top-
right corner of the page to hide In-line Help
shown.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide ArtCAM 2D Layout • 7

 • Click on to display In-line Help on
the page.
You can also click on the icon in the top-
right corner of the page to display the In-line
Help.
• Click on the icon in the top-right corner
of the page to return to the Assistant’s
Home page.
You can play a video tutorial on how you can
use the page that is currently displayed in the
Assistant window if you:

• Click on the video icon on the In-line

page.
3. Design Windows - This is the central area of
the screen. ArtCAM 2D uses two types of view.
The 2D View window displays the two-
dimensional model that you create, while the
3D View window displays a three-dimensional
representation of the machined 2D model and
any calculated toolpaths.
4. Toolpath Manager – This tab displays the
Toolpath Manager page in the Assistant
window. You can use this page to simulate
toolpaths, save toolpaths and edit the machining
parameters relating to a tool.

Adjusting the Window View

You can adjust the appearance of the 2D View and 3D
View windows in ArtCAM 2D:
1. Click on the Window option in the Main menu
bar to display the Window menu:

8 • ArtCAM 2D Layout ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 2. Click on the option that you want to use to
adjust the view of the design windows:
• Cascade – Click on this option to display
both the 2D View and 3D View windows
overlapping one another.
• Tile – Click on this option to display both
the 2D View and 3D View windows beside
one another.
• 2D View - Click on this option to display
the 2D View window only.
Note: You can also display the 2D View window by
pressing the F2 key on your keyboard.

• 3D View - Click on this option to display

the 3D View window only.
Note: You can also display the 3D View window by
pressing the F3 key on your keyboard.

2D View Manipulation
You can change the 2D View of a model using the tools
above the window:

3D View
Click on the 3D View button to display the 3D View
window.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide ArtCAM 2D Layout • 9

 Note: You can also move from the 2D View to the 3D
View window by pressing the F3 key on your
keyboard.

Zoom In
You can use the Zoom In button in two ways on an
open model. You can:
• Enlarge the area directly beneath the cursor
by 50%.
• Zoom in on a defined area of the model.
To enlarge an area directly beneath the cursor by
50%:
1. Click on the Zoom In button , then move
the magnifying cursor over the area of the
model that you want to zoom in on.
2. Click the right mouse button.
Note: You can also magnify the area directly beneath the
cursor by 50% if you hold down the Ctrl key on
your keyboard and right-click.

To zoom in on a defined area of the model:

1. Click on the Zoom In button and move the
magnifying cursor over the area of the
model that you want to zoom in on.
2. Click and drag the mouse to create a bounding
box around the area of the model that you are
interested in.
3. Release the left mouse button to view the area
defined by the bounding box you have drawn.

Zoom Out Tool

Each click on the Zoom Out button reduces the size
of the image by 50%.

10 • ArtCAM 2D Layout ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 Note: You can also reduce the area directly beneath the

cursor by 50% if you hold down the Shift key on

your keyboard and right-click.

Zoom Previous
Click on the Previous Zoom button to restore the
previous zoom setting.

Window Fit
Click on the Window Fit button to automatically
adjust the zooming to make the entire 2D View window
visible.

Zoom Object(s)
Click on the Zoom Object(s) button to focus in on
a selected vector object within an open model.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” in the Working with
Vectors chapter.

Scrolling the 2D View

If you cannot see all of an open model in the 2D View
window, often as a result of zooming in, ArtCAM 2D
automatically displays scrollbars along the vertical and
horizontal axes:

These scrollbars can be used to view a particular area of

an open model currently outside of the 2D View
window.
You can adjust the area of the open model that is visible
if you:
• Click on the arrow at either end of the scrollbar.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide ArtCAM 2D Layout • 11

 • Drag the thumb in the scrollbar to the
appropriate position.
• Click directly in the scrollbar on either side of
the thumb to page back and forth.

2D View Options
When drawing vector objects in ArtCAM 2D, there are
three invaluable features available to help you create a
vector object according to an exact set of measurements.
These are:
• Rulers.
• The Snap Grid.
• Horizontal and vertical guidelines.
These features assist you in positioning vector objects,
making it easier to consistently align and size them.
You can also turn on snapping to make the positioning of
a vector object relative to another more accurate.

Using Rulers
You can use the rulers adjacent to the X and Y-axis of the
2D View window to make measurements. The rulers are
shown by default.
The ruler along the X-axis also shows the units of
measurement (millimetres or inches) selected for the
model that is shown in the 2D View window.
For details, see “Creating a Model” in the Working with
Models chapter.
To turn the rulers off:
1. Click on 2D View in the Main menu bar to
display the 2D View options:

12 • ArtCAM 2D Layout ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 2. Click on the Show Rulers option to turn it off.
The rulers along the X and Y-axis of the 2D
View window are hidden.
To turn the rulers on:
1. Click on 2D View in the Main menu bar to
display the 2D View options:

2. Click on the Show Rulers option to turn it on.

Rulers appear adjacent to the X and Y-axis of
the 2D View window.

Using the Snap Grid

The snap grid is made up of a network of fixed points that
govern the placement of vector objects, making it easier
to consistently size and align them.
You can use the Snap Grid Settings dialog box to
adjust the spacing of gridlines, to activate or deactivate
the grid, or to force vector objects to automatically align
themselves to the snap grid.

Displaying the Snap Grid

To display the snap grid in an active 2D View window:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide ArtCAM 2D Layout • 13

 1. Click on 2D View in the Main menu bar, and
then on the Snap Grid Settings option:

The Snap Grid Settings dialog box is

opened:

2. Click on the Draw Snap Grid option to turn it

on .
3. Click on the OK button to close the
Snap Grid Settings dialog box and draw the
snap grid.
To hide the snap grid in an active 2D View window:
1. Click on 2D View in the Main menu bar, and
then on the Snap Grid Settings option:

The Snap Grid Settings dialog box is

displayed:

14 • ArtCAM 2D Layout ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 2. Click on the Draw Snap Grid option to turn it
off .
3. Click on the OK button to close the
Snap Grid Settings dialog box and hide the
snap grid.

Setting the Grid Spacing

You can set the spacing between grid points using the
units of measurement that you had selected in the Setup
Job Dimensions dialog box (millimetres or inches)
when creating the model. For details, see “Creating a
Model” in the Working With Models chapter.
To set the grid spacing:
1. Click on 2D View in the Main menu bar, and
then on the Snap Grid Settings option:

The Snap Grid Settings dialog box is

displayed:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide ArtCAM 2D Layout • 15

 2. Type a value in the Grid Spacing box.
3. Click on the OK button to close the
Snap Grid Settings dialog box and set the
grid spacing.

Snapping to the Grid

To make each cursor click during the creation or editing
of a vector object snap to the nearest point on the grid:
1. Click on 2D View in the Main menu bar, and
then on the Snap Grid Settings option:

The Snap Grid Settings dialog box is

displayed:

16 • ArtCAM 2D Layout ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 2. Click on the Snap To Grid option to turn it on
.
3. Click on the OK button to close the
Snap Grid Settings dialog box and activate
grid snapping.
Note: To temporarily disable the snapping behaviour,
press and hold the Shift key on your keyboard.

Using Guidelines
While a Snap Grid is made up of a network of fixed
points, a guideline is a solid line parallel to either the
horizontal or vertical axis that can be moved to any point
in the 2D View window.
To begin creating guidelines, you must first turn on the
rulers adjacent to the X and Y-axis. For details, see
“Using Rulers” on page 12.
To create a horizontal guideline:
1. Click and hold down the left mouse button on
the top ruler to display a guideline in the 2D
View window.
2. Drag the guideline to the required position.
To create a vertical guideline:
1. Click and hold down the left mouse button on
the left-hand ruler to display a guideline in the
2D View window.
2. Drag the guideline to the required position.
Guidelines can be repositioned at any time by placing the
mouse cursor over them. On doing so, the cursor changes
to a double-headed arrow . At this point, click and
drag the guideline into the desired position.
Warning: You must have the both the Show Rulers
and the Show Guidelines options turned on to see
guidelines in the 2D View window.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide ArtCAM 2D Layout • 17

 Defining a Guideline’s Position
You can define the position of a guideline using the
Position Guide dialog box. This is a more accurate
method than clicking and dragging a guideline into
position.
To display the Position Guide dialog box, move the
mouse cursor over a guideline and click the right mouse
button:

The Selected Guide area of the Position Guide

dialog box allows you to:
• Reposition a guideline.
• Delete a guideline.
Guidelines are positioned according to the units of
measurement that you had selected in the Setup Job
Dimensions dialog box (millimetres or inches) when
creating the model. For details, see “Creating a Model” in
the Working With Models chapter.
To reposition a guideline:
1. Type a value for the position of the guideline in
the New Position box.
2. Click on the Apply button .
To delete a guideline:
1. Click on the Delete button .
The Insert Parallel Guide(s) area of the Position
Guide dialog box allows you to:

18 • ArtCAM 2D Layout ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 • Create a guideline at an absolute position.
• Create any number of guidelines at a position
relative to the selected guideline.
To insert a parallel guideline at an absolute position:
1. Click on the Absolute position radio button
.
2. Type the co-ordinate for the position of the new
guideline in the Position box.
3. Click on the Add New Guide(s) button
to draw the guideline.
4. Click on the OK button to close the
Position Guide dialog box.
To insert any number of parallel guidelines at a relative
position:
1. Click on the Relative to guide radio button
.
2. Type the number of guidelines that you want to
create in the Count box.
3. Type the distance that you want to put between
each of these parallel guidelines in the
Position box.
You can set the relative position for the new
guidelines using a positive or negative value.
For example, if you want to create a new
guideline to the right of an existing vertical
guideline, or above an existing horizontal
guideline, you must type a positive value in the
Position box e.g. 10.0.
If you want to create a new guideline to the left
of an existing vertical guideline, or below an
existing horizontal guideline, you must type a
negative value in the Position box e.g. -10.0.
4. Click on the Add New Guide(s) button
to draw the guidelines.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide ArtCAM 2D Layout • 19

 Tip: If you want to carry out more than one action in the
Position Guide dialog box, instead of clicking the OK
button , click on the Apply button . This
applies the change and keeps the dialog box open.

Snapping to Objects
You can make a point (node) in a vector object snap:
• To a point (node) in another vector object.
• About the centre of a linear or arc span within
another vector object.
• About the centre another vector object, as
defined by the area of the bounding box that
surrounds the vector object when selected.
To make a point (node) in a vector object snap to a point
(node), the centre of either a linear or an arc span, or
about the centre of another vector object:
1. Click on 2D View in the Main menu to display
the 2D View options:

2. Click on the Snap To Objects option to turn

it on:

20 • ArtCAM 2D Layout ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 3. Click and drag the vector object that you want
to move.
If you click within a cursor length of a point
(node), the cursor snaps to the point (node).
When the selected vector object moves over a
point (node), about the centre of a linear or arc
span, or about the centre of another vector
object (as defined by the area of the bounding
box that surrounds the vector object when
selected) the cursor changes from to .
4. Release the mouse button to position the vector
object.
Note: To temporarily disable the snapping behaviour,
press and hold the Shift key on your keyboard.

3D View Manipulation
Once you have completed creating and simulating a
specific toolpath in relation to your finished model, a
three-dimensional representation of the machined model
is automatically generated in a 3D View window.
You can change the view of a model using the tools
above the 3D View window:

2D View
Click on the 2D View button to display the 2D View
window.
Note: You can also move from the 3D View to the 2D
View window by pressing the F2 key on your
keyboard.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide ArtCAM 2D Layout • 21

 Twiddle Tool
The Twiddle Tool button allows you to rotate the
3D image around a central point.
Click on the Twiddle Tool button , then click and
drag the 3D image to the required viewing angle.

Pan View
The Pan View button allows you to move the 3D
image within the 3D View window.
Click on the Pan View button , then click and drag
the 3D image to the required viewing position.

Zoom
There are two ways that you can zoom in on an open
model. You can:
• Enlarge the area beneath the cursor by 50%.
• Zoom in on a defined area of the model.
To enlarge the area beneath the cursor:
1. Click on the Zoom button , then move the
magnifying cursor over the area of the
model that you want to zoom in on.
2. Click the right mouse button.
To zoom in on a defined area of a model:
1. Click on the Zoom button , then move the
magnifying cursor over the area of the
model that you want to zoom in on.
2. Click and drag the mouse to create a bounding
box around the area of the model that you are
interested in.
3. Release the left mouse button to view the area
defined by the bounding box.

22 • ArtCAM 2D Layout ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 Zoom Out
Click on the Zoom Out button to reduce the size of
the image by 50%.

Scale To Fit
The Scale To Fit button resizes the model so that it
fits in the 3D View window.

Isometric View
The Isometric View button displays the model in
the standard isometric view. The viewing angle is shown
by the XYZ representation on the button.

View Along X
The View Along X button displays the model from
the X-axis.

View Along Y
The View Along Y button displays the model from
the Y-axis.

View Along Z
The View Along Z button displays the model from
the Z-axis.

Origin
The Origin button shows the X, Y and Z positions in
the co-ordinate system used for the open model.
Click on the Origin button to display the origin in
the 3D View window.
The X-axis is red, the Y-axis is green and the Z-axis is
blue.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide ArtCAM 2D Layout • 23

 If the origin is displayed in the 3D View window, you
can also click on the Origin button to hide the origin.

Objects To Draw
Click on the Objects To Draw button to display the
Objects To Draw list box.
The Objects To Draw list box lists the block of
material, all of your calculated toolpaths and all of your
toolpath simulations:

All items in the Objects To Draw list box are

highlighted in blue and are shown in the 3D View
window by default.
You can hide any of the objects displayed in the 3D
View:
1. Click on the Objects To Draw button to
display the Objects To Draw list box.
2. Click on the object in the list box you want to
hide.
The selected object is highlighted in blue.
3. Click on the Apply button to hide the
object in the 3D View window.
4. Click on the in the top right corner of the
Objects To Draw list box to close it.
To show any of the hidden objects in the 3D View:
1. Click on the Objects To Draw button to
display the Objects To Draw list box.

24 • ArtCAM 2D Layout ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 2. Click on the object in the list box you want to
show.
The selected object is highlighted in blue.
3. Click on the Apply button to show the
object in the 3D View window.
4. Click on the in the top-right corner of the
Objects To Draw list box to close it.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide ArtCAM 2D Layout • 25

26 • ArtCAM 2D Layout ArtCAM 2D User Guide
Tutorial – Aston Martin
DB5

Overview
The following tutorial demonstrates how to create an
Aston Martin DB5 sign from imported vector artwork,
using the vector drawing and toolpath tools available in
ArtCAM 2D.
The design is courtesy of Holmes & Cottrell Graphic
Technologies. Visit their website www.vectorart.com for
high quality designs.

Aston Martin DB5

The ten stages that you will cover during the course of
this tutorial are:
• Preparing the model.
• Creating a frame for the sign.
• Importing the vector artwork.
• Creating the vector text.
• Wrapping the vector text.
• Creating an offset vector.
• Machining the vectors.
• Marking the drill holes with circles.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 • 27

 • Creating the drill holes.
• Saving the toolpaths.
The tutorial will lead you through each of these stages,
guiding you through the complete process of creating the
Aston Martin DB5 sign.
At the end of this tutorial, you will have produced the
three-dimensional Aston Martin DB5 sign shown in the
following image:

Preparing the Model

First, you will set up the dimensions of the block of
material needed for this particular job:
1. Click on the Create New Model button
located in the Getting Started menu options
in the ArtCAM 2D Assistant to display the
Setup Job Dimensions dialog box:

28 • Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 2. Click on the Units option that you want to
use (millimetres or inches).
3. Type 500 mm (20") in the Width (X) box, 300
mm (12") in the Height (Y) box and 50 mm
(2") in the Thickness (Z) box.
4. Make sure that the Material Z Zero option
is set to Top of Block.

5. Make sure that the Job Origin is

positioned on the front-left corner of the box, as
illustrated in Step 1.
6. Click on the OK button to close the
Setup Job Dimensions dialog box.
A 2D View window automatically fills the
previously empty design window area.
This window represents the block of material
viewed down the Z-axis.

Creating a Frame for the Sign

Next, you will create the vector objects that represent the
frame of the sign in your model.

Creating the Outer Rectangle

First, you will draw the outer rectangle of the sign’s
frame:
1. Click on the Create Rectangle button in
the Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Rectangle
Creation page.
2. Make sure that the Rectangle option is
selected .
If not, click on the Rectangle radio button to
select it.
3. Type 250 mm (10") in the Height box and 450
mm (18") in the Width box.
4. Click on the Preview button at the
bottom of the Rectangle Creation page to

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 • 29

 produce a preview image of the following
rectangle:

The preview image appears centred about the

origin of the model, which is in the bottom left
corner.
5. Click on the Create button at the bottom
of the Rectangle Creation page to create the
rectangle in your model:

6. Click on the Close button at the bottom

of the Rectangle Creation page to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.
7. Make sure that the rectangle is selected.
The rectangle should be green and surrounded
by a bounding box. If not, click on the rectangle
to select it.

30 • Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 8. Click on the Centre In Page button in the
Position Size Align Vectors area of the
Assistant’s Home page to place the rectangle
in the centre of your model.
This rectangle represents the total area of the
sign that you are creating in your model.

Creating the Outer Ellipse

Second, you will draw the outer ellipse of the sign’s
frame:
1. Click on the Create Ellipse button in the
Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Ellipse Creation
page in the Assistant window.
2. Type 225 mm (9") in the Height box and 425
mm (17") in the Width box.
Make sure that the value in the Angle box
remains at the default setting of 0.
3. Click on the Preview button at the
bottom of the Ellipse Creation page to
produce the following preview image of the
ellipse:

The preview image appears centred about the

origin of the model.
4. Click on the Create button at the bottom
of the Ellipse Creation page to create the
ellipse in your model:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 • 31

 The ellipse is green.
5. Click on the Close button at the bottom
of the Ellipse Creation page to return to the
Assistant’s Home page.
6. Make sure that the ellipse is selected.
7. Click on the Centre In Page button to
place the ellipse in the centre of your model.

Creating the Inner Ellipse

Now you will draw an inner ellipse to complete the sign’s
framework:
1. Click on the ellipse you have just created to
select it.
2. Click on the Copy button in the File area
of the Assistant’s Home page to create a
duplicate of the selected ellipse and place it on
the clipboard.
3. Click on the Paste button in the File area
of the Assistant’s Home page to place an
identical ellipse in your model, overlapping the
original.
4. Click on the Transform Vector(s) button
in the Position Size Align Vectors area of
the Assistant’s Home page to display the
Transform Vector(s) page.
5. Click on the Link Width and Height option
to turn it off .

32 • Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 6. Type 375 mm (15") in the Size’s New Width
box.
7. Type 175 mm (7") in the Size’s New Height
box.
8. Click on the Apply button at the
bottom of the Transform Vector(s) page to
create a preview image of a second, scaled
ellipse:

9. Click on the Close button at the bottom

of the Transform Vector(s) page to create the
second, scaled ellipse in your model and return
to the Assistant’s Home page:

All three of the vector objects that you have drawn, as

illustrated above, complete the frame for the Aston
Martin DB5 sign.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 • 33

 Importing the Vector Artwork
The next stage is to import the Aston Martin vector
artwork:
1. Click on the Import DXF, EPS or AI Files
button in the File area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Vector Import
dialog box:

2. Click on the Look In list box and select

ArtCAM 2D V1.0\Examples.
3. Click on the .eps file named AstonCar to select
it.
The file name appears in the File name box.
4. Click on the Open button to import
the vector artwork.
The Aston Martin is magenta, showing that it is
a grouped set of vector objects:

34 • Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 5. Make sure that the grouped vector objects that
make up the Aston Martin are selected.
The grouped vector objects that make up the
Aston Martin should be magenta and
surrounded by a bounding box. If not, click
anywhere on the grouped vector objects that
make up the Aston Martin to select it.
6. Click on the Centre In Page button to
place the grouped vector objects that make up
the Aston Martin in the centre of your model.
The grouped vector objects that make up the
Aston Martin overlap the inner ellipse in the
sign.
You will now reduce its size in order to fit it
within the inner ellipse.
7. Click on the Transform Vector(s) button
to display the Transform Vector(s) page.
8. Make sure that the Link Width and Height
option is turned on .
9. Type 150 mm (5.91") in the Size’s New
Height box.
10. Click on the Apply button at the
bottom of the Transform Vector(s) page to
create a preview image of the resized group of
vector objects that make up the Aston Martin:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 • 35

 A value of 236.235 mm (9.3112") automatically
appears in the Size’s New Width box. This is
because the Link Width and Height option is
on .
11. Click on the Close button at the bottom
of the Transform Vector(s) page to create the
resized group of vector objects that make up the
Aston Martin in your model and return to the
Assistant’s Home page:

Creating the Vector Text

The next stage is to create the vector text for the writing
on the sign:
1. Click on the Create Vector Text button in
the Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Text Tool page.
2. Click on the Font list box, and then click on
Arial to select it.
3. Click on the Size list box, and then click on the
appropriate unit of measurement option
(millimetres or inches).
4. Type 28 mm (1.1") in the Size box.
5. Click anywhere in your model (the white area in
the 2D View window), then type Aston Martin
DB5.

36 • Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 6. Click the Done button on the Text
Tool page to create the vector text and return to
the Assistant’s Home page:

Wrapping the Vector Text

Next, you will wrap the vector text around the inner
ellipse that you had previously created:
1. Click on the inner ellipse in your model to
select it.

2. Hold the Shift key on your keyboard, and

then click on the vector text to select it.
Both the inner ellipse and the vector text are
magenta, showing that both are selected.
3. Click on the Wrap Text Round A Curve
button in the Vector Editing area of the
Assistant’s Home page to display the Text
On A Curve page.
4. Click on the Specify radio button to select
it.
This option allows you to position the block of
vector text about the inner ellipse, according to
the positive or negative value you type in the
Specify box.
5. Type 3 mm (0.12") in the Specify box.
6. Click on the Apply button .

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 • 37

 7. Click on the Text on Other Side option to
turn it on .
This option reverses the direction of the inner
ellipse, and resets the vector text off the inner
ellipse.
8. Click and drag the vector text approximately
into the centre of the model, as shown below:

9. Click on the OK button at the bottom of

the Text On A Curve page to return to the
Assistant’s Home page.

Creating an Offset Vector

Next you will create a vector object, offest from the
outline of the imported Aston Martin vector artwork. This
will be referred to as the “offset vector”:
1. Click on the group of vector objects that make
up the Aston Martin to select it.
2. Click on the Ungroup button in the
Group Merge Join area of the Assistant’s
Home page to ungroup the vector objects that
make up the Aston Martin.
In ungrouping, the group of vector objects that
makes up the Aston Martin is divided into a
number of separate vector objects.
3. Click on the Zoom In button in the 2D
View toolbar.

38 • Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 4. Click and drag to form a bounding box around
the front wheel of the Aston Martin car, then
release the mouse button to zoom in on it.
5. Click on the outer vector object of the Aston
Martin car to select it:

6. Click on the Window Fit button in the 2D

View toolbar to view the whole of the model.
You can clearly see the spans, points (nodes)
and adjoining control points that make up the
selected outer vector:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 • 39

 The offset vector you will now create acts as a
boundary for the area clearance tool you will
use to machine this area of the sign.
7. Click on the Offset Vector(s) button in
the Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Offset Vector page.
8. Type 5 mm (0.20") in the Offset Distance
box.
9. Make sure that the Outwards option is
selected for the Offset Direction.
10. Click on the Offset button to create the
offset vector.
11. Click on the Close button to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.
You are now ready to regroup the vector objects
that make up the Aston Martin car so that they
can be machined in the same way.
12. Click and drag around the vector objects that
make up the Aston Martin car and the offset
vector to select them all.
The vector objects that make up the Aston
Martin and the offset vector turn magenta:

13. Hold the Shift key on your keyboard,

and then click on the offset vector to deselect it.

40 • Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 The offset vector is now black, whilst the vector
objects that make up the Aston Martin remain
as magenta:

14. Click on the Group button in the Group

Merge Join area of the Assistant’s Home
page to group the vector objects that make up
the Aston Martin.
The grouped vector objects that make up the
Aston Martin are magenta, surrounded by a
bounding box with resizing handles:

Machining the Vectors

Now that you have positioned and resized the Aston
Martin car, you will create the toolpaths that will be used
to machine your model, and thus create your sign.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 • 41

 Clearing the Unwanted Material
First, you will create an area clearance toolpath that will
remove the unwanted material in your model:
1. Click on the rectangle to select it.

2. Hold the Shift key on your keyboard, and

then click on each of the ellipses and the offset
vector in turn to select them:

All of the selected vector objects turn magenta.

3. Click on the Area Clearance button in the
Toolpaths area of the Assistant’s Home
page to display the 2D Area Clearance page.
4. Type 10 mm (0.39") in the Finish Depth box.
5. Type 0.02 mm (0.001") in the Tolerance box.
6. Click on the arrow in the Safe Z area of the
page to display the Safe Z box.
7. Type 3 mm (0.12") in the Safe Z box.
8. Click on the Add button beneath the Tool
List window to display the Tool Groups
Database:

42 • Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 9. Click on the End Mill 6mm (End Mill ¼ Inch)
tool in the Wood or Plastic\Roughing and
2D Finishing tool group to select it.
10. Click on the Select button to close
the Tool Groups Database and add the tool
to the Tool List on the 2D Area Clearance
page.
11. Type 5 mm (0.20") in the Stepover box
located in the Tool Settings area of the page.
12. Make sure that the Raster option is selected
in the Tool Clearance Strategy area of
the 2D Area Clearance page.
13. Make sure that the Create 2D Preview
option is checked on .
14. Click on the Calculate button to
create the Area Clearance toolpath.
The Area Clearance toolpath appears in the 2D
View window as follows:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 • 43

 15. Click on the Close button to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.
16. Click on the 3D View button in the 2D
View toolbar to display a three-dimensional
representation of the Area Clearance toolpath in
the 3D View window.
An isometric view of the Area Clearance
toolpath appears in the 3D View window as
follows:

17. Click on the Toolpath Manager tab

.
The Toolpath Manager allows you to edit,
simulate and save the toolpaths that you have
created.

44 • Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 18. Click on the Simulate Toolpath(s) button
in the Toolpath Simulation area of the
Toolpath Manager to simulate the Area
Clearance toolpath you have created.
An isometric view of the simulated Area
Clearance toolpath appears in the 3D View
window as follows:

19. Click on the 2D View button in the 3D

View toolbar to display the 2D View window.

Carving the Aston Martin

Second, you will create a V-Bit Carving toolpath that will
carve the Aston Martin vector object in your model:
1. In the 2D View window, click on the Aston
Martin vector object to select it.
The Aston Martin vector object is magenta:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 • 45

 2. Click on the Centreline Carving button
in the Toolpaths area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the V-Bit Carving page.
3. Type 0.02 mm (0.001") in the Tolerance box.
4. Click on the arrow in the Safe Z area of the
page to display the Safe Z box.
5. Type 3 mm (0.12") in the Safe Z box.
6. Click on the Select button in the
Carving Tool area of the page to display the
Tool Groups Database:

7. Click on the V-Bit 32 mm 90 degree (V-Bit

1.25 Inch 90 degree) tool in the Wood or
Plastic\V-Carving tool group to select it.

46 • Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 8. Click on the Select button to close
the Tool Groups Database and display the
selected tool in the Carving Tool area of the
V-Bit Carving page.
9. Click on the arrow to display the machining
parameters of the selected tool.
10. Click on the Tool Number list box, and then
click on the number 2 option.
This number should correspond with the
position of the tool in your CNC machine’s tool
changer.
11. Click on the Calculate button to
create the V-Bit Carving toolpath.
The Aston Martin vector object is colour-filled
in cyan during the centreline calculation
process.
The progress bar appears beneath the 2D View
window. This indicates the progress ArtCAM
2D is making in calculating the centreline:

The V-Bit Carving toolpath appears in the 2D

View window as follows:

12. Click on the Close button to return to

the Assistant’s Home page.
13. Click on the 3D View button in the 2D
View toolbar to display a three-dimensional

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 • 47

 representation of the V-Bit Carving toolpath in
the 3D View window.
An isometric view of the V-Bit Carving
toolpath appears in the 3D View window as
follows:

14. Click on the Toolpath Manager tab

.
15. Click on the Simulate Toolpath(s) button
in the Toolpath Simulation area of the
Toolpath Manager to simulate the V-Bit
Carving toolpath you have created.
An isometric view of the simulated V-Bit
Carving toolpath appears in the 3D View
window as follows:

48 • Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 16. Click on the 2D View button in the 3D
View toolbar to display the 2D View window.

Carving the Text

Next, you will create a V-Bit Carving toolpath that will
carve the Aston Martin DB5 vector text in your model:
1. In the 2D View window, click on the Aston
Martin DB5 vector text to select it:

2. Click on the Centreline Carving button

in the Toolpaths area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the V-Bit Carving page.
3. Type 0.02 mm (0.001") in the Tolerance box.
4. Click on the arrow in the Safe Z area of the
page to display the Safe Z box.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 • 49

 5. Type 3 mm (0.12") in the Safe Z box.
6. Click on the Select button in the
Carving Tool area of the page to display the
Tool Groups Database:

7. Click on the V-Bit 32 mm 90 degree (V-Bit

1.25 Inch 90 degree) tool in the Wood or
Plastic\V-Carving tool group to select it.
8. Click on the Select button to close
the Tool Groups Database and display the
selected tool in the Carving Tool area of the
V-Bit Carving page.
9. Click on the arrow to display the machining
parameters of the selected tool.
10. Click on the Tool Number list box, and then
click on the number 2 option.
11. Click on the Calculate button to
create the V-Bit Carving toolpath.
The Aston Martin DB5 vector text is colour-
filled in cyan during the centreline calculation
process.
The progress bar appears beneath the 2D View
window. This indicates the progress ArtCAM
2D is making in calculating the centreline:

50 • Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 The V-Bit Carving toolpath appears in the 2D
View window as follows:

12. Click on the Close button to return to

the Assistant’s Home page.
13. Click on the 3D View button in the 2D
View toolbar to display a three-dimensional
representation of the V-Bit Carving toolpath in
the 3D View window.
An isometric view of the V-Bit Carving
toolpath appears in the 3D View window as
follows:

14. Click on the Toolpath Manager tab

.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 • 51

 15. Click on the Simulate Toolpath(s) button
in the Toolpath Simulation area of the
Toolpath Manager to simulate the V-Bit
Carving toolpath you have created.
An isometric view of the simulated V-Bit
Carving toolpath appears in the 3D View
window as follows:

16. Click on the 2D View button in the 3D

View toolbar to display the 2D View window.

Marking the Drill Holes with

Circles
Now you will mark the position of the drill holes that you
want to machine using circles:
1. Click on the Assistant tab to display
the Assistant’s Home page.
2. Click on the Create Circles button in the
Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Circle Creation
page.
3. Type 50 mm (2") in the Circle Centre’s X
box.
4. Type 150 mm (6") in the Circle Centre’s Y
box.

52 • Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 5. Type 9 mm (0.35") in the Circle Radius box.
6. Click on the Create button to create a
circle between the middle of the inner and outer
ellipse on the left side of the model:

7. Type 450 mm (18") in the Circle Centre’s X

box.
8. Type 150 mm (6") in the Circle Centre’s Y
box.
9. Type 9 mm (0.35") in the Circle Radius box.
10. Click on the Create button to create a
circle between the middle of the inner and outer
ellipse on the right side of the model:

11. Click on the Close button to return to

the Assistant’s Home page.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 • 53

 12. Hold the Shift key on your keyboard,
and then click on both of the circles that you
have created to select them.
The circles turn magenta and are surrounded by
a bounding box:

Creating the Drill Holes

In this next stage, you will create drill holes inside the
selected circles:
1. Click on the Drill Holes button in the
Toolpaths area of the Assistant’s Home
page to display the Drilling page.
2. Type 50 mm (2") in the Finish Depth box.
3. Click on the arrow in the Safe Z area of the
page to display the Safe Z box.
4. Type 3 mm (0.12") in the Safe Z box.
5. Click on the Select button in the Tool
area of the page to display the Tool Groups
Database:

54 • Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 6. Click on the End Mill 12 mm (End Mill ½
Inch) tool in the Wood or Plastic\Roughing
and 2D Finishing tool group to select it.
7. Click on the Select button to close
the Tool Groups Database and display the
selected tool in the Tool area of the Drilling
page.
8. Click on the arrow to display the machining
parameters of the selected tool.
9. Click on the Tool Number list box, and then
click on the number 3 option.
10. Click on the Circular Vectors radio button
in the Drill Centre of… area of the page to
select it.
This option is used because you have selected
circles to define the position of the drill holes.
11. Make sure that the Create 2D Preview
option is checked on .
12. Click on the Calculate button to
create the Drilling toolpath.
The Drilling toolpath appears in the 2D View
window, shown as a cross in the centre of both
circles:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 • 55

 13. Click on the Close button to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.

14. Press the Delete key on your keyboard to

delete the two circles, leaving just the drill
holes:

15. Click on the 3D View button in the 2D

View toolbar to display a three-dimensional
representation of the Drilling toolpath in the 3D
View window.
An isometric view of the Drilling toolpath
appears in the 3D View window as follows:

56 • Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 16. Click on the Toolpath Manager tab
.
17. Click on the Simulate Toolpath(s) button
in the Toolpath Simulation area to
simulate the Drilling toolpath you have created.
An isometric view of the simulated Drilling
toolpath appears in the 3D View window as
follows:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 • 57

 Saving the Toolpaths
You are now ready to save the toolpaths that you have
created to machine the Aston Martin DB5 sign:
1. Click on the Toolpath Manager tab
.
2. Click on the Area Clear toolpath to select it.
The toolpath name is highlighted in blue:

3. Click on the Save Toolpaths button in

the Toolpath Operations area to display the
Save Toolpaths dialog box:

58 • Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 You will save the toolpaths as separate files,
grouping together those that use the same tool.
Both of the V-Bit Carving toolpaths have the
same tool number because the V-Bit 32 mm
90 degree (V-Bit 1.25 Inch 90 degree) tool is
used in each of them.
4. Click on the Machine output file is
formatted for list box and select the format
compatible with your machine.
5. Click on the Save… button to open
the Save As… dialog box.
6. Type Area Clearance in the File Name box.
7. Click on the Save button to save the
toolpath to the selected directory.
8. Click on the button to send the Area Clear
toolpath to the Calculated Toolpaths
window in the Save Toolpaths dialog box.

9. Hold the Shift key on your keyboard, and

then click on both of the V-Bit Carving
toolpaths in the Calculated Toolpaths
window to select them.
10. Click on the arrow to send both of the
selected toolpaths to the Toolpaths to save
to a single file window:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 • 59

 Both of the V-Bit Carving toolpaths are saved
as a single file because the V-Bit 32 mm 90
degree (V-Bit 1.25 Inch 90 degree) tool is
used in each of them.
11. Click on the Save… button to open
the Save As… dialog box.
12. Type V-Bit Carving in the File Name box.
13. Click on the Save button to save the
toolpath.
14. Click on the button to send both the V-Bit
Carving and the V-Bit Carving 1 toolpath to
the Calculated Toolpaths window.
15. Click on the Drilling toolpath to select it.
16. Click on the button to send the selected
toolpath to the Toolpaths to save to a
single file window:

60 • Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 17. Click on the Save… button to open
the Save As… dialog box.
18. Type Drilling in the File Name box.
19. Click on the Save button to save the
toolpath.
20. Click on the Close button to close
the Save Toolpaths dialog box.
You can now send these toolpath files to your CNC
machine tool to create the Aston Martin DB5 sign.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 • 61

62 • Tutorial – Aston Martin DB5 ArtCAM 2D User Guide
Tutorial – 3D Bevelled
Carving

Overview
The following tutorial demonstrates how to create
bevelled (angle-edged) lettering using the vector text and
toolpath tools available in ArtCAM 2D.

Bevelled Letter B
The four stages that you will cover during the course of
this tutorial are:
• Preparing the model.
• Creating the vector text.
• Machining the vector text.
• Saving the toolpaths.
The tutorial will lead you through each of these stages,
guiding you through the complete process of creating a
bevelled letter B.
At the end of this tutorial, you will have produced a
model of a bevelled letter B that looks like this:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – 3D Bevelled Carving • 63

 Preparing the Model
First, you will set up the dimensions of the block of
material that you will be working with for this particular
job:
1. Click on the Create New Model button
located in the Getting Started menu options
in the ArtCAM 2D Assistant to display the
Setup Job Dimensions dialog box:

2. Click on the Units option that you want to

use (millimetres or inches).
3. Type 150 mm (6") in the Width (X) box, 150
mm (6") in the Height (Y) box and 15 mm
(0.6") in the Thickness (Z) box.

64 • Tutorial – 3D Bevelled Carving ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 4. Make sure that the Material Z Zero option
is set to Top of Block.

5. Make sure that the Job Origin is

positioned on the front-left corner of the box.
6. Click on the OK button to close the
Setup Job Dimensions dialog box.
A 2D View window automatically fills the
previously empty design window area.

Creating the Vector Text

Now you will create the vector text you will use to
produce the bevelled letter B:
1. Click on the Create Vector Text button in
the Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Text Tool page.
2. Click on the Font list box, and then click on
Times New Roman to select it.
3. Click on the Size list box, and then click on the
appropriate unit of measurement option
(millimetres or inches).
4. Type 200 mm (8") in the Size box.
5. Click anywhere in the 2D View window. Hold
the Shift key on your keyboard and then
type B.
6. Click the Done button on the Text
Tool page to create the vector text and return to
the Assistant’s Home page.
7. Make sure that the B vector text is selected.
The B vector text should be magenta and
surrounded by a bounding box. If not, click on
the B vector text to select it.
8. Click on the Centre In Page button in the
Position Size Align Vectors area of the
Assistant’s Home page to place the B vector
text in the centre of your model.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – 3D Bevelled Carving • 65

 Machining the Vector Text
You are now ready to create the toolpath that will be used
to machine your B vector text, and thus create your
bevelled letter:
1. Click on the Create a V-Bit Bevelled
Carving button in the Toolpaths area of
the Assistant’s Home page to display the 3D
Bevel Carving page.
2. Type 3 mm (0.15") in the Wall Height box.
3. Type 15 mm (0.6") in the Finish Depth box.
4. Type 0.02 mm (0.001") in the Tolerance box.
5. Click on the arrow in the Safe Z area of the
page to display the Safe Z box.
6. Type 3 mm (0.12") in the Safe Z box.
7. Click on the Select button in the
Carving Tool area of the page to display the
Tool Groups Database:

66 • Tutorial – 3D Bevelled Carving ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 8. Click on the V-Bit 32 mm 90 degree (V-Bit
1.25 Inch 90 degree) tool in the Wood or
Plastic\V-Carving tool group to select it.
9. Click on the Select button to close
the Tool Groups Database and display the
selected tool in the Carving Tool area of the
3D Bevel Carving page.
10. Click on the Select button in the
Profiling Tool area of the page to display the
Tool Groups Database:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – 3D Bevelled Carving • 67

 11. Click on the End Mill 3 mm (End Mill 1/8
Inch) tool in the Wood or Plastic\Roughing
and 2D Finishing tool group to select it.
12. Click on the Select button to close
the Tool Groups Database and display the
selected tool in the Profiling Tool area of the
3D Bevel Carving page.
13. Click on the arrow to display the machining
parameters of the selected tool.
14. Click on the Tool Number list box, and then
click on the number 2 option.
This number should correspond with the
position of the tool in your CNC machine’s tool
changer.
15. Click on the Calculate button to
create the Bevelled Carving toolpath
The B vector text is colour-filled in cyan during
the centreline calculation process.
The progress bar appears beneath the 2D View
window. This indicates the progress ArtCAM
2D is making in calculating the centreline:

The Bevelled Carving toolpath appears in the

2D View window as follows:

68 • Tutorial – 3D Bevelled Carving ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 16. Click on the Close button to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.
17. Click on the 3D View button in the 2D
View toolbar to display an isometric view of
the Bevelled Carving toolpath in the 3D View
window:

18. Click on the Toolpath Manager tab

.
The Toolpath Manager allows you to edit,
simulate and save the toolpaths that you have
created.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – 3D Bevelled Carving • 69

 19. Click on the V-Bit 32 mm 90 degree (V-Bit
1.25 Inch 90 degree) toolpath under the
Bevelled Carving heading, so that only this
toolpath name is highlighted in blue:

20. Click on the Simulate Toolpath(s) button

in the Toolpath Simulation area of the
Toolpath Manager to simulate the Carving
part of the Bevelled Carving toolpath you have
created.
An isometric view of the simulated Carving part
of the Bevelled Carving toolpath appears in the
3D View window as follows:

70 • Tutorial – 3D Bevelled Carving ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 21. Click on the End Mill 3 mm (End Mill 1/8
Inch) toolpath under the Bevelled Carving
heading on the Toolpath Manager to select it:

22. Click on the Simulate Toolpath(s) button

in the Toolpath Simulation area of the
Toolpath Manager to simulate the Profiling
part of the Bevelled Carving toolpath you have
created.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – 3D Bevelled Carving • 71

 An isometric view of the simulated Carving part
of the Bevelled Carving toolpath appears in the
3D View window as follows:

This isometric view now represents a simulation

of the complete Bevelled Carving toolpath.

Saving the Toolpaths

Finally, you will save the toolpaths that you have created
to machine the bevelled letter B:
1. Click on the Toolpath Manager tab
.
2. Click on the V-Bit 32 mm 90 degree (V-Bit
1.25 Inch 90 degree) toolpath under the
Bevelled Carving heading to select it:

72 • Tutorial – 3D Bevelled Carving ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 3. Click on the Save Toolpaths button in
the Toolpath Operations area to display the
Save Toolpaths dialog box:

4. Click on the Machine output file is

formatted for list box and select the format
compatible with your machine.
5. Click on the Save… button to open
the Save As… dialog box.
6. Type Bevelled Carving 1 in the File Name
box.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – 3D Bevelled Carving • 73

 7. Click on the Save button to save the
toolpath to the selected directory.
You have now saved the Carving part of the
Bevelled Carving toolpath.
8. Click on the button to send the Bevelled
Carving – V-Bit 32 mm 90 degree
(Bevelled Carving – V-Bit 1.25 Inch 90 degree)
toolpath to the Calculated Toolpaths
window in the Save Toolpaths dialog box.
9. Click on the Bevelled Carving – End Mill 3
mm (Bevelled Carving – End Mill 1/8 Inch)
toolpath in the Calculated Toolpaths
window to select it:

10. Click on the arrow to send the Bevelled

Carving – End Mill 3 mm (Bevelled Carving
– End Mill 1/8 Inch) toolpath to the Toolpaths
to save to a single file window:

74 • Tutorial – 3D Bevelled Carving ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 11. Click on the Save… button to open
the Save As… dialog box.
12. Type Bevelled Carving 2 in the File Name
box.
13. Click on the Save button to save the
toolpath.
You have now saved the Profiling part of the
Bevelled Carving toolpath.
14. Click on the Close button to close
the Save Toolpaths dialog box.
You can now send these toolpath files to your CNC
machine tool to create the bevelled letter B.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – 3D Bevelled Carving • 75

76 • Tutorial – 3D Bevelled Carving ArtCAM 2D User Guide
Tutorial – Bridging

Overview
The following tutorial demonstrates how to add bridges,
also referred to as tabs, to a Profile toolpath. Bridges are
used to hold a part in place during machining.

Bridged Letter B
The six stages that you will cover during the course of
this tutorial are:
• Preparing the model.
• Creating the vector text.
• Creating the toolpath.
• Adding the bridges.
• Editing the bridges.
• Saving the toolpath.
The tutorial will lead you through each of these stages,
guiding you through the complete process of creating a
profiled letter B with bridging.

Preparing the Model

First, you will set up the dimensions of the block of
material that you will be working with for this particular
job:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Bridging • 77

 1. Click on the Create New Model button
located in the Getting Started menu options
in the ArtCAM 2D Assistant to display the
Setup Job Dimensions dialog box:

2. Click on the Units option that you want to

use (millimetres or inches).
3. Type 150 mm (6") in the Width (X) box, 150
mm (6") in the Height (Y) box and 15 mm
(0.6") in the Thickness (Z) box.
4. Make sure that the Material Z Zero option
is set to Top of Block.

5. Make sure that the Job Origin is

positioned on the front-left corner of the box, as
shown above.
6. Click on the OK button to close the
Setup Job Dimensions dialog box.
A 2D View window automatically fills the
previously empty design window area.

Creating the Vector Text

The next stage is to create the vector text to which you
will be adding bridging:
1. Click on the Create Vector Text button in
the Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Text Tool page.

78 • Tutorial – Bridging ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 2. Click on the Font list box, and then click on
Times New Roman to select it.
3. Click on the Size list box, and then click on the
appropriate unit of measurement option
(millimetres or inches).
4. Type 200 mm (8") in the Size box.
5. Click anywhere in the 2D View window. Hold
the Shift key on your keyboard and then
type B.
6. Click the Done button on the Text
Tool page to create the vector text and return to
the Assistant’s Home page.
7. Make sure that the B vector text is selected.
The B vector text should be magenta and
surrounded by a bounding box. If not, click on
the B vector text to select it.
8. Click on the Centre In Page button in the
Position Size Align Vectors area of the
Assistant’s Home page to place the B vector
text in the centre of your model:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Bridging • 79

 Machining the Vector Text
In this next stage, you will create the toolpath that will be
used to machine your B vector text:
1. Click on the Profiling button in the
Toolpaths area of the Assistant’s Home
page to display the Profiling page.
2. Make sure that the Outside radio button is
selected.
3. Make sure that the Finish Depth is set to 15
mm (0.6").
4. Type 0.02 mm (0.001") in the Tolerance box.
5. Click on the arrow in the Safe Z area of the
page to display the Safe Z box.
6. Type 3 mm (0.12") in the Safe Z box.
7. Click on the Select button in the
Profiling Tool area of the page to display the
Tool Groups Database:

8. Click on the End Mill 3 mm (End Mill 1/8

Inch) tool in the Wood or Plastic\Roughing
and 2D Finishing tool group to select it.
9. Click on the Select button to close
the Tool Groups Database and display the

80 • Tutorial – Bridging ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 selected tool in the Profiling Tool area of the
Profiling page.
10. Click on the Calculate button to
create the Profile toolpath.
The Profile toolpath appears in the 2D View
window as follows:

11. Click on the Close button to return to

the Assistant’s Home page.
12. Click on the 3D View button in the 2D
View toolbar to display an isometric view of
the Profile toolpath in the 3D View window:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Bridging • 81

 13. Click on the Toolpath Manager tab
.
The Toolpath Manager allows you to edit,
simulate and save the toolpaths that you have
created.
14. Click on the Simulate Toolpath(s) button
in the Toolpath Simulation area to
simulate the Profile toolpath you have created.
An isometric view of the simulated Profile
toolpath appears in the 3D View window as
follows:

82 • Tutorial – Bridging ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 15. Click on the Objects To Draw button in
the 3D View toolbar to open the Objects To
Draw list box:

The Objects To Draw list box allows you to

control what objects are seen and hidden in the
3D View window.
16. Click on the Simulation option to deselect it,
so that it is no longer highlighted in blue.
17. Click on the Material option, followed by the
Profile – End Mill 3mm (Profile – End Mill
1/8 Inch) option to select them (so that they are
highlighted in blue):

18. Click on the Apply button to display

the following isometric view of the Profile
toolpath in the 3D View window:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Bridging • 83

 You can now see how the 3mm End Mill (1/8
Inch End Mill) tool is used to machine the B
vector text before any bridging is added.
19. Click on the Objects To Draw button to
close the Objects To Draw list box.
20. Click on the 2D View button in the 3D
View toolbar to display the 2D View window.

Adding the Bridges

You can now add the bridges to the Profile toolpath that
you have created:
1. Click on the dark red Profile toolpath to select
it.
A bounding box surrounds the Profile toolpath:

84 • Tutorial – Bridging ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 2. Click on the Assistant tab to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.
3. Click on the Create Bridges button in the
Toolpaths area of the Assistant’s Home
page to display the Bridging page.
4. Make sure that the value in the Bridge Length
box is 3 mm (0.125").
5. Make sure that the value in the Bridge
Thickness box is 1 mm (0.05").
6. Make sure that the Constant Number option
is selected in the Add Bridges To
Profiles area of the page.
7. Type 3 in the Number box. This will add three
bridges to each part of the Profile toolpath.
8. Click on the Create Bridges button
to add the bridging to the Profile
toolpath as follows:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Bridging • 85

 Editing the Bridges
Now you will edit the bridges you have just added
to the Profile toolpath.
It is important to position the bridges on the Profile
toolpath in places to make it easier to snap the
letter from the block of material and file down the
bridged areas after it has been machined:
1. Move the cursor over the first bridge as
shown below, then double-click on it to delete
it:
Before… After…

86 • Tutorial – Bridging ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 2. Move the cursor over the second bridge as
shown below, then press the D key on your
keyboard to delete it:
Before… After…

There are now seven bridges remaining on the

Profile toolpath.
3. Click and drag the first bridge into the position
shown below:
Before… After…

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Bridging • 87

 4. Click and drag the second bridge into the
position shown below:
Before… After…

5. Click and drag the third bridge into the position

shown below:
Before… After…

6. Click and drag the fourth bridge into the

position shown below:

88 • Tutorial – Bridging ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 Before… After…

7. Click and drag the fifth bridge into the position

shown below:
Before… After…

8. Click and drag the sixth bridge into the position

shown below:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Bridging • 89

 Before… After…

9. Click and drag the seventh bridge into the

position shown below:
Before… After…

10. Click on the Close button to return to

the Assistant’s Home page.
11. Click on the 3D View button in the 2D
View toolbar to display a three-dimensional
representation of the Profile toolpath with
bridging in the 3D View window:

90 • Tutorial – Bridging ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 12. Click on the Zoom button in the 3D View
toolbar.
13. Click and drag in the 3D View window to
create a bounding box as shown below:

You can now see a bridge on the Profile

toolpath clearly:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Bridging • 91

 Saving the Toolpath
The final stage is to save the Profile toolpath with the
bridging. This file can then be sent to your CNC machine
tool to cut out the letter:
1. In the Toolpath Manager, make sure that the
Profile toolpath in the Toolpaths area is
selected (highlighted in blue):

2. Click on the Save Toolpaths button in

the Toolpath Operations area to display the
Save Toolpaths dialog box:

92 • Tutorial – Bridging ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 3. Click on the Machine output file is
formatted for list box and select the format
compatible with your machine.
4. Click on the Save… button to open
the Save As… dialog box.
5. Type ProfileWithBridges in the File Name
box.
6. Click on the Save button to save the
toolpath in the selected directory.
7. Click on the Close button to close
the Save Toolpaths dialog box.
You can now send this toolpath file to your CNC
machine tool to create the bridged letter B.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Bridging • 93

94 • Tutorial – Bridging ArtCAM 2D User Guide
Tutorial – Engraving

Overview
The following tutorial demonstrates how to create
engraved text using the vector editing and toolpath tools
available in ArtCAM 2D.

Engraved Text
The five stages that you will cover during the course of
this tutorial are:
• Preparing the model.
• Creating the outer-edge of the engraved area.
• Creating the vector text.
• Machining the model.
• Saving the toolpaths.
The tutorial will lead you through each of these stages,
guiding you through the complete process of creating the
engraved text.
At the end of this tutorial, you will have produced a
model of the engraved text that looks like this:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Engraving • 95

 Preparing the Model
First, you will set up the dimensions of the block of
material that you will be working with for this particular
job:
1. Click on the Create New Model button
located in the Getting Started menu options
in the ArtCAM 2D Assistant to display the
Setup Job Dimensions dialog box:

2. Click on the Units option that you want to

use (millimetres or inches).
3. Type 90 mm (3.5") in the Width (X) box, 50
mm (2.0") in the Height (Y) box and 12 mm
(0.5") in the Thickness (Z) box.

96 • Tutorial – Engraving ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 4. Make sure that the Material Z Zero option
is set to Top of Block.

5. Make sure that the Job Origin is

positioned on the front-left corner of the box, as
illustrated in Step 1.
6. Click on the OK button to close the
Setup Job Dimensions dialog box.
A 2D View window automatically fills the
previously empty design window area.

Defining the Outer-Edge of the

Engraved Area
In this next stage you will create a rectangle that
represents the outer-edge of the area to be engraved:
1. Click on the Create Rectangle button in
the Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Rectangle
Creation page.
2. Make sure that the Rectangle option is
selected .
3. Type 45 mm (1.8") in the Height box and 85
mm (3.3") in the Width box.
4. Click on the Preview button at the
bottom of the Rectangle Creation page to
produce a preview image of the rectangle.
The preview image appears centred about the
origin of the model, which is in the bottom left
corner.
5. Click on the Create button at the bottom
of the Rectangle Creation page to create the
rectangle in your model:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Engraving • 97

 6. Click on the Close button at the bottom
of the Rectangle Creation page to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.
7. Make sure that the rectangle is selected.
The rectangle should be green and surrounded
by a bounding box. If not, click on the rectangle
to select it.
8. Click on the Centre In Page button in the
Position Size Align Vectors area of the
Assistant’s Home page to place the rectangle
in the centre of your model.
This rectangle represents the outer-edge of the
area to be engraved.

Creating the Vector Text

The next stage is to create the vector text that you will
engrave:
1. Click on the Create Vector Text button in
the Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Text Tool page.
2. Click on the Font list box, and then click on
Times New Roman to select it.
3. Click on the Size list box, and then click on the
appropriate unit of measurement option
(millimetres or inches).
4. Type 25 mm (1") in the Size box.

98 • Tutorial – Engraving ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 5. Click anywhere in your model, then type
engrave.
6. Click the Done button on the Text
Tool page to create the vector text and return to
the Assistant’s Home page.
7. Make sure that the engrave vector text is
selected.
The engrave vector text should be magenta and
surrounded by a bounding box. If not, click on
the vector text to select it.
8. Click on the Centre In Page button to
place the vector text in the centre of your
model:

Machining the Model

Next, you will create two toolpaths to engrave the design.
A 3 mm End Mill (1/8 Inch End Mill) tool will be used to
rough the part and a Conical 0.25 mm Flat – 15 degrees
(Conical 0.01 Inch Flat – 15 degrees) tool will be used to
finish engrave it:
1. Click on the rectangle to select it.

2. Hold the Shift key on your keyboard,

then click on the engrave vector text to select it.
Both the vector text and the rectangle are
magenta:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Engraving • 99

 3. Click on the Engraving button in the
Toolpaths area of the Assistant’s Home
page to display the Engraving page.
4. Type 4 mm (0.15") in the Finish Depth box
and 0.02 mm (0.001") in the Tolerance box.
5. Click on the arrow in the Safe Z area of the
page to display the Safe Z box.
6. Type 3 mm (0.12") in the Safe Z box.
7. Click on the Select button in the
Engraving Tool area of the page to display
the Tool Groups Database:

8. Click on the Conical 0.25 Flat – 15 degrees

(Conical 0.01 Flat – 15 degrees) tool in the
Steel\Engraving tool group to select it.

100 • Tutorial – Engraving ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 9. Click on the Select button to close
the Tool Groups Database and display the
selected tool in the Engraving Tool area of
the Engraving page.
10. Click on the arrow to display the machining
parameters of the selected tool.
11. Click on the Tool Number list box, and then
click on the number 2 option.
This number should correspond with the
position of the tool in your CNC machine’s tool
changer.
12. Click on the Select button in the
Roughing Tool area of the page to display the
Tool Groups Database:

13. Click on the End Mill 3mm (End Mill 1/8

Inch) tool in the Steel\Roughing and 2D
Finishing tool group to select it.
14. Click on the Select button to close the
Tool Groups Database and display the
selected tool in the Roughing Tool area of the
Engraving page.
15. Make sure that the Offset for engraving
tool option is turned on .

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Engraving • 101

 This option automatically offsets the roughing
tool in order to leave sufficient material for the
angled-edge of the Conical engraving tool to
form the side of the engraved feature.
16. Click on the Calculate button to
create the Engraving toolpath.
The Engraving toolpath appears in the 2D View
window as follows:

17. Click on the Close button to return to

the Assistant’s Home page.
18. Click on the 3D View button in the 2D
View toolbar to display an isometric view of
the Engraving toolpath in the 3D View
window:

102 • Tutorial – Engraving ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 19. Click on the Toolpath Manager tab
.
The Toolpath Manager allows you to edit,
simulate and save the toolpaths that you have
created.
20. Click on the End Mill 3mm (End Mill 1/8
Inch) toolpath under the Engraving heading
on the Toolpath Manager to select only this
part of the Engraving toolpath:

21. Click on the Simulate Toolpath(s) button

in the Toolpath Simulation area to
simulate the Roughing part of the Engraving
toolpath you have created.
An isometric view of the simulated Roughing
part of the Engraving toolpath appears in the 3D
View window as follows:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Engraving • 103

 22. Click on the Conical 0.25 Flat – 15
degrees (Conical 0.01 Flat – 15 degrees)
toolpath under the Engraving heading on the
Toolpath Manager to select it:

23. Click on the Simulate Toolpath(s) button

in the Toolpath Simulation area of the

104 • Tutorial – Engraving ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 Toolpath Manager to simulate the Engraving
part of the Engraving toolpath you have created.
An isometric view of the simulated Engraving
part of the Engraving toolpath appears in the 3D
View window as follows:

Saving the Toolpaths

You are now ready to save the toolpaths that you have
created. These files can then be sent to your CNC
machine tool to machine the engraving:
1. Click on the Toolpath Manager tab
.
2. Click on the End Mill 3mm (End Mill 1/8
Inch) toolpath under the Engraving heading
on the Toolpath Manager to select it:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Engraving • 105

 3. Click on the Save Toolpaths button in
the Toolpath Operations area to display the
Save Toolpaths dialog box:

4. Click on the Machine output file is

formatted for list box and select the format
compatible with your machine.
5. Click on the Save… button to open
the Save As… dialog box.
6. Type Engraving 1 in the File Name box.

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 7. Click on the Save button to save the
toolpath to the selected directory.
You have now saved the Roughing part of the
Engraving toolpath.
8. Click on the button to send the Engraving
- End Mill 3mm (Engraving - End Mill 1/8
Inch) toolpath to the Calculated Toolpaths
window in the Save Toolpaths dialog box.
9. Click on the Engraving – Conical 0.25 Flat
– 15 degrees (Engraving - Conical 0.01 Flat –
15 degrees) toolpath in the Calculated
Toolpaths window to select it:

10. Click on the arrow to send the Engraving

– Conical 0.25 Flat – 15 degrees
(Engraving - Conical 0.01 Flat – 15 degrees)
toolpath to the Toolpaths to save to a
single file window:

11. Click on the Save… button to open

the Save As… dialog box.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Engraving • 107

 12. Type Engraving 2 in the File Name box.
13. Click on the Save button to save the
toolpath to the selected directory.
You have now saved the Engraving part of the
Engraving toolpath.
14. Click on the Close button to close
the Save Toolpaths dialog box.
You can now send these toolpath files to your CNC
machine tool to create the engraving.

108 • Tutorial – Engraving ArtCAM 2D User Guide

Tutorial – ArtTrace

Overview
The following tutorial demonstrates how to create vector
objects from a bitmap file using ArtTrace. The vector
objects are created around a specified colour in the
bitmap image. These can then be exported to ArtCAM
2D.
For further information, see “Using ArtTrace” in the
ArtTrace chapter.

Converting a Bitmap to Vector Objects

The six stages that you will cover during the course of
this tutorial are:
• Preparing the model.
• Opening the Bitmap file in ArtTrace.
• Reducing the colours in the Bitmap image.
• Linking colours in the Bitmap image.
• Creating the vector object.
• Exporting the vector object to ArtCAM 2D.
The tutorial will lead you through each of these stages,
guiding you through the complete process of creating
vector objects from a bitmap file, and then exporting
them to ArtCAM 2D.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – ArtTrace • 109

 At the end of this tutorial, you will see a vector object in
the 2D View window of ArtCAM 2D that resembles the
following image:

Preparing the Model

First, you will set up the dimensions of the block of
material that you will be working with for this particular
job:
1. Click on the Create New Model button
located in the Getting Started menu options
in the ArtCAM 2D Assistant to display the
Setup Job Dimensions dialog box:

2. Click on the Units option that you want to

use (millimetres or inches).

110 • Tutorial – ArtTrace ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 3. Type 200 mm (8") in the Width (X) box, 200
mm (8") in the Height (Y) box and 12 mm
(0.5") in the Thickness (Z) box.
4. Make sure that the Material Z Zero option
is set to Top of Block.

5. Make sure that the Job Origin is

positioned on the front-left corner of the box, as
shown above.
6. Click on the OK button to close the
Setup Job Dimensions dialog box.
A 2D View window automatically fills the
previously empty design window area.

Opening the Bitmap File in

ArtTrace
In this next stage you will open the Bitmap file to be
vectorized in ArtTrace:
1. Click on the Trace Bitmap button in the
File area of the Assistant’s Home page to
open the Select Bitmap Image To Trace
dialog box:

2. Click on the Look In list box and select

ArtCAM 2D V1.0\Examples, which can be
found in the same directory as the ArtCAM 2D
files:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – ArtTrace • 111

 3. Click on the .bmp file named Art to select it.
The file name appears in the File Name box.
4. Click on the Open button to start
ArtTrace and import the bitmap image:

In this tutorial you will create vector objects around each

of the letters in the bitmap image.

Reducing the Colours in the

Bitmap Image
You are now ready to reduce the number of colours in the
bitmap image. This will accelerate the vectorization
process:

112 • Tutorial – ArtTrace ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 1. Click on the Reduce Colours button to
open the Reduce Number of Colours In
Image dialog box:

2. Type 5 in the New Maximum Number of

Colours For Image box.
3. Click on the OK button to reduce the
number of colours in the bitmap image.
ArtTrace takes colours of a similar shade and
produces a new average of them.
There are now only five colours in the Colour
Palette beneath the 2D View window:

Linking the Colours

ArtTrace creates vector objects around the outline of
areas in the Primary Colour. You can link other colours to
the Primary Colour so that vector objects are created
around the outline of areas in these colours too.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – ArtTrace • 113

 You can now select white as the Primary Colour and link
brown to it. ArtTrace can then create vector objects
around the outline of all areas in white and brown:
1. Click on the third colour from the left (white) in
the Colour Palette to select it as the Primary
Colour, using the left mouse button.
The Colour Palette appears as follows:

2. Double right-click on the fourth colour from the

left (brown) in the Colour Palette to link it to
the Primary Colour.
Pixels in the bitmap image that are of the colour
you have linked to the Primary Colour are now
displayed as the Primary Colour in the 2D
View window.
The Colour Palette now appears as follows:

Creating the Vector Objects

Next, you will create the vector objects around the
Primary and linked colours in the bitmap image:

1. Click on the Bitmap to Vector button in

the Main toolbar to open the Vectors From
Bitmap dialog box:

114 • Tutorial – ArtTrace ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 2. Make sure that the Keep lines longer than
pixels radio button is selected in the
Method area.
3. In the Method area, type 3 in the box.
Selecting a small value means that the vector
objects will closely follow the outline of the
Primary Colour.
4. Type 1 in the Pixels box in the Tolerance
area.
5. Click on the OK button to close the
Vectors From Bitmap dialog box and create
vector objects around all areas in the Primary
Colour within the bitmap image:

6. Click on the Bitmap On/Off button to hide

the bitmap image:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – ArtTrace • 115

 You can clearly see the vector object in the 2D
View window.

Exporting the Vector Objects to

ArtCAM 2D
You can now export the vector objects created in
ArtTrace by copying them to the ArtCAM 2D clipboard,
then switching to ArtCAM 2D to paste them into the
open model:
1. From the Main menu bar, click on the Edit
option and then on Select All:

All of the vector objects turn magenta:

116 • Tutorial – ArtTrace ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 2. Hold the Shift key on your keyboard and
click on the rectangular vector object around the
edge of the image to deselect it:

3. Click on the Copy button to copy the

vector object to the ArtCAM 2D clipboard.
4. Click on File > Exit to shut ArtTrace down.
5. In ArtCAM 2D, click anywhere in the 2D View
window. This makes it the active window.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – ArtTrace • 117

 6. Click on the Paste button in the File area
of the Assistant’s Home page to paste the
vector object into your model.
7. Click on the Transform Vectors button
in the Position Size Align area of the
Assistant’s Home page to open the
Transform Vector(s) page.
8. Make sure that the Link Width and Height
option is turned on .
9. Type 190 mm (7.5") in the Size’s New Width
box.
A value of 165.112 mm (6.5176") automatically
appears in the Size’s New Height box. This is
because the Link Width and Height option is
on .
10. Click on the Apply button to reduce
the size of the vector object.
11. Click on the Close button to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.
12. Click on the Centre In Page button in the
Position Size Align area of the Assistant’s
Home page to position the vector object in the
centre of your model:

118 • Tutorial – ArtTrace ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 You can now use these vector objects in the same
way as if they had been created in ArtCAM 2D or
imported in the usual way from a vector image file.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – ArtTrace • 119

120 • Tutorial – ArtTrace ArtCAM 2D User Guide
Tutorial – Nesting
Vectors

Overview
The following tutorial demonstrates how the Nesting tool
in ArtCAM 2D repositions vector objects in order to
minimise material wastage when you are machining.

Nesting Vectors
The six stages that you will cover during the course of
this tutorial are:
• Preparing the model.
• Defining the material shape.
• Creating the vector text.
• Nesting the vector text.
• Machining the nested vector text.
• Saving the toolpath.
The tutorial will lead you through each of these stages,
guiding you through the complete process of nesting.
At the end of this tutorial you will have nested text within
an area of material, and created the toolpath with which
to machine it. The nested text appears as follows:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Nesting Vectors • 121

 Preparing the Model
First, you will set up the dimensions of the block of
material that you will be working with for this particular
job:
1. Click on the Create New Model button
located in the Getting Started menu options
in the ArtCAM 2D Assistant to display the
Setup Job Dimensions dialog box:

2. Click on the Units option that you want to

use (millimetres or inches).
3. Type 300 mm (12") in both the Width (X) and
Height (Y) boxes, and 12 mm (0.5") in the
Thickness (Z) box.
4. Make sure that the Material Z Zero option
is set to Top of Block.

5. Make sure that the Job Origin is

positioned on the front-left corner of the box, as
illustrated in Step 1.
6. Click on the OK button .

122 • Tutorial – Nesting Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 The 2D View window automatically fills the
previously empty design window area.

Defining the Material Shape

In this next stage, you will create the vector object in
which you will nest the vector text:
1. Click on the Create Rectangle button in
the Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Rectangle
Creation page.
2. Make sure that the Rectangle option is
selected .
If not, click on the Rectangle radio button to
select it.
3. Type 75 mm (3") in the Height box.
4. Type 200 mm (8") in the Width box.
5. Click on the Preview button at the
bottom of the Rectangle Creation page to
produce the following preview image of the
rectangle:

The preview image appears centred about the

origin of the model, which is in the bottom left
corner.
6. Click on the Create button at the bottom
of the Rectangle Creation page to create the
rectangle in your model.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Nesting Vectors • 123

 The rectangle is green.
7. Click on the Close button at the bottom
of the Rectangle Creation page to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.
8. Make sure that the rectangle is selected.
The rectangle should be green and surrounded
by a bounding box. If not, click on the rectangle
to select it.
9. Click on the Centre In Page button in the
Position Size Align Vectors area of the
Assistant’s Home page to place the rectangle
in the centre of your model.
10. Move the cursor over the right span of the
rectangle, right-click to display the Vector
Editing menu, then click on the Convert
span to arc option:

124 • Tutorial – Nesting Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 The rectangle now appears as follows:

11. Move the cursor over the left span of the

rectangle, then press the A key on your

keyboard to convert the span to an arc.
The rectangle now appears as follows:

The rectangle will now be referred to as a

vector object.
This vector object represents the total area of
the material you have available in which to
machine a block of vector text.

Creating the Vector Text

Now that you have created the vector object, you will
create the vector text that you will be nesting within it:
1. Click on the Create Vector Text button in
the Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Text Tool page.
2. Click on the Font list box, and then click on
Arial to select it.
3. Click on the Size list box, and then click on the
appropriate unit of measurement option
(millimetres or inches).
4. Type 55 mm (2.15") in the Size box.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Nesting Vectors • 125

 5. Click on the Bold button to type in bold.
6. Click anywhere in the 2D View window, then
type ArtCAM 2D.
7. Click the Done button on the Text Tool
page to create the vector text and return to the
Assistant’s Home page:

Nesting the Vector Text

You are now ready to nest the ArtCAM 2D vector text
within the vector object that you created to represent the
material:
1. Click on the vector object in your model to
select it.
The vector object changes from black to green.

2. Hold the Shift key on your keyboard, and

then click on the vector text to select it.
Both the vector object and the ArtCAM 2D
vector text are magenta:

3. Click on the Nesting button in the

Position Size Align Vectors area of the
Assistant’s Home page to display Nest
Vectors page.
4. Type 3 mm (0.125") in the Tool Diameter (D)
box.

126 • Tutorial – Nesting Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 5. Click on the Allow Part Rotation option to
turn it on .
6. Type 45 ° in the Step Angle (A) box.
7. Make sure that the Bottom Left option is
selected in the Nest From list box.
8. Type 0.02 mm (0.001") in the Curve
Tolerance box.
9. Click on the Create Leftover Material
Vector option to turn it on .
This option creates a vector object that
represents the area of material after the vector
text has been machined.
10. Click on the Nest button .
The progress bar appears beneath the 2D View
window. This indicated the progress ArtCAM
2D is making in calculating the position of the
nested vector text:

The nested vector text appears in the 2D View

window as follows:

11. Click on the Close button to return to

the Assistant’s Home page.
12. Click on the vector object representing the total
area of the material to select it:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Nesting Vectors • 127

 You can see that the area of the material that
surrounds the nested vector text is now a vector
object in which you can nest other vector
objects into again.
You could save this vector object for the next
time you use this area of material in a job.

Machining the Nested Vector Text

Now that the ArtCAM 2D vector text has been nested,
you are ready to create the toolpath that will be used to
machine it:
1. Click anywhere in the 2D View window to
deselect the vector objects.
2. Click on the nested vector text to select it.
The vector text is magenta:

3. Click on the Profiling button in the

Toolpaths area of the Assistant’s Home
page to display the Profiling page.
4. Make sure that the Outside radio button is
selected.
5. Make sure that the Finish Depth is set to 12
mm (0.5").
6. Type 0.02 mm (0.001") in the Tolerance box.
7. Click on the arrow in the Safe Z area of the
page to display the Safe Z box.
8. Type 3 mm (0.12") in the Safe Z box.
9. Click on the Select button in the
Profiling Tool area of the page to display the
Tool Groups Database:

128 • Tutorial – Nesting Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 10. Click on the End Mill 3mm (End Mill 1/8
Inch) tool in the Aluminum\Roughing and
2D Finishing tool group to select it.
11. Click on the Select button to close
the Tool Groups Database and display the
selected tool in the Profiling Tool area of the
Profiling page.
12. Click on the Calculate button to
create the Profile toolpath.
The Profile toolpath appears in the 2D View
window as follows:

You can see by looking at the toolpath that

ArtCAM 2D has nested the individual
characters in this way to leave a sufficient offset
for the 3mm End Mill (1/8 Inch End Mill) tool
to profile each of them without causing
gouging.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Nesting Vectors • 129

 A 3mm End Mill (1/8 Inch End Mill) tool must
be used to machine the nested vector text for
each character to be cut from the area of
material successfully.
13. Click on the Close button to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.
14. Click on the 3D View button in the 2D
View toolbar to display an isometric view of
the Profile toolpath in the 3D View window:

15. Click on the Toolpath Manager tab

.
The Toolpath Manager allows you to edit,
simulate and save the toolpaths that you have
created.
16. Click on the Simulate Toolpath(s) button
in the Toolpath Simulation area to
simulate the Profile toolpath you have created.
An isometric view of the simulated Profile
toolpath appears in the 3D View window as
follows:

130 • Tutorial – Nesting Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 Saving the Toolpath
Finally, you will save the Profile toolpath used to
machine the nested vector text:
1. In the Toolpath Manager, make sure that the
Profile toolpath in the Toolpaths area is
selected (highlighted in blue):

2. Click on the Save Toolpaths button in

the Toolpath Operations area to display the
Save Toolpaths dialog box:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Tutorial – Nesting Vectors • 131

 3. Click on the Machine output file is
formatted for list box and select the format
compatible with your machine.
4. Click on the Save… button to open
the Save As… dialog box.
5. Type ProfileNesting in the File Name box.
6. Click on the Save button to save the
toolpath to the selected directory.
7. Click on the Close button to close
the Save Toolpaths dialog box.

132 • Tutorial – Nesting Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

Working with Models

Getting Started
When you start ArtCAM 2D, there are three icons on the
Assistant’s Getting Started page. These three icons
are commands that enable you to:
• Create a New Model – Define the
dimensions of a block of material that you want
to produce a 2D model from.
• Open an Existing Model – Open a
previously defined block of material that you
have either machined or made some progress
toward creating a 2D model from.
• Open the Last Model – Return to the
previous 2D model that you had opened in
ArtCAM 2D.

Creating a Model
To create a model:
1. Click on the Create New Model icon on
the Assistant’s Getting Started page to
display the Setup Job Dimensions dialog
box:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Models • 133

 2. Type in the Width (X), Height (Y) and
Thickness (Z) values according to the
physical size of the model you want to create.
3. Click on one of the Material Z Zero radio
buttons to define the Z-axis zero level, or the
position of the cutter relative to the surface of
the block of material to be machined:
• Click on the Top Of Block radio button
if you want to position the cutter on the
material surface.

The Job Origin icon appears on the

top-front-left corner of the box.
• Click on the Machine Bed radio button
if you want to position the cutter on the bed
of the machine.

The Job Origin icon appears on the

bottom-front-left corner of the box.
4. Click on the centre or any of the four corners of
the box to define the X-axis zero and Y-axis
zero origin.
The Job Origin icon appears in the
position you have clicked on.
5. Make sure that the Units option is set
according to those you are working in, either
millimetres or inches.
6. Click on the OK button to display a 2D
View window.

134 • Working with Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 This window is the area in which you draw or
import the vector objects that make up your
model.
Note: If you want to create a new model when the
ArtCAM 2D application has already been started, click
on the New Model button in the File area of the
Assistant’s Home page.

Opening an Existing Model

If you have already created a model and want to review
or modify it’s content:
1. Click on the Open Existing Model icon
on the Assistant’s Getting Started page to
display the Open dialog box:

2. Click on the Look In list box in the Open

dialog box and find the file that you want to
open.
3. Once you have found the file, click on the file
name listed in the main window of the Open
dialog box.
Note: You are only able to select ArtCAM Model files
(*.art). You can confirm this by clicking on the Files of
Type list box.

The name of the file you have selected appears

in the File Name box.
4. Click on the Open button to open the
model.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Models • 135

 Note: If you want to open an existing ArtCAM Model
file when ArtCAM 2D has already been started, click on
the Open button in the File area of the Assistant’s
Home page.

Opening the Last Model

If you want to open the model that you were working on
last:

1. Click on the Open Last Model icon on

the Assistant’s Getting Started page.
Tip: You can also open previously saved models by
clicking on the File menu in the Main menu bar, and
then clicking on the appropriate file name listed above
the Exit option. Up to five models can be listed.

Closing a Model
To close the ArtCAM 2D model that you are currently
working on:
1. Click on File in the Main menu bar, then select
the Close option:

If you click on the Close option before saving a new

model, or any changes that you may have made to an
open model, the following message box appears:

136 • Working with Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 If you want to save the model:
1. Click on the Yes button to open the Save
As… dialog box.
2. Follow Steps 2 to 5 of “Saving a Model” on
page 140.
If you do not want to save the model you are working on:
1. Click on the No button to close the
message box.

Shutting Down ArtCAM 2D

To shut down ArtCAM 2D:
1. Click on File in the Main menu bar, and then
on the Exit option:

If you click on the Exit option before saving a new

model, or any changes that you may have made to an
open model, the following message box appears:

If you want to save the model:

1. Click on the Yes button to open the Save
As… dialog box.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Models • 137

 2. Follow Steps 2 to 5 of “Saving a Model” on
page 140.
If you do not want to save the model you are working on:
1. Click on the No button to close the
message box.

Managing a Model
When you have created or opened a model in ArtCAM
2D, the Assistant’s Home page is automatically
displayed.
There is a group of tools in the File area of the
Assistant’s Home page to help you manage a model:

With the tools within the File area of the Assistant’s

Home page you can:
• Create a new model.
• Open a saved model.
• Save an open model.
• Edit the dimensions of an open model.
• Import vector files created in other applications.
• Convert a bitmap image into a vector object.
• Correct a mistake that you have made.

138 • Working with Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 Creating a New Model
You can only create a new model when a model has
already been created or opened in ArtCAM 2D.
To create a new model:
1. Click on the New Model button to open
the Setup Job Dimensions dialog box.
Note: You can also open the Setup Job Dimensions
dialog box by clicking on File in the Main menu bar, and
then selecting the New… option.

2. Follow Steps 2 to 6 of “Creating a Model” on

page 133.
If you click on the New Model button while working on
an unsaved model and then the OK button in the
Setup Job Dimensions dialog box, the following
message box appears:

If you want to save the model:

1. Click on the Yes button to open the Save
As… dialog box.
2. Follow Steps 2 to 5 of “Saving a Model” on
page 140.
If you do not want to save the model you are working on:
1. Click on the No button to close the
message box.

Opening a Model
To open a model that you have previously saved (*.art):
1. Click on the Open button to display the
Open dialog box:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Models • 139

 2. Follow Steps 2 to 4 of “Opening an Existing
Model” on page 135.

Saving a Model
To save the model you have created:
1. Click on the Save button to display the
Save As… dialog box:

2. Click on the Save In list box and select the

directory you want to save the model in.
3. Type the file name you want to use for the
model in the File name box.
4. Click on the Save as type list box, and then
click on the file type you want to save the
model as.
5. Click on the Save button .
Note: You can also open the Save As… dialog box if
you click on File in the Main menu bar, and then on the
Save As… option.

140 • Working with Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 Editing the Model Dimensions
To edit the dimensions that you had originally defined for
a model when creating it, you must:
1. Click on the Set Model Size button to
display the Setup Job Dimensions dialog
box:

2. Follow Steps 2 to 6 of “Creating a Model” on

page 133.
By adjusting the current settings in the Setup
Job Dimensions dialog box, you can change:
• The height, width and/or thickness of the
block of material.
• The job origin.
• The material Z zero level.
• The units of measurement you are using.
You can also edit the dimensions that you had originally
defined for a model if you:
1. Click on the Model option in the Main menu
bar to display the Model menu:

2. Click on the Set Size… option to display the

Setup Job Dimensions dialog box:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Models • 141

 3. Follow Steps 2 to 6 of “Creating a New Model”
on page 139.

Importing Vector Files

In ArtCAM 2D, you can use vector data created in other
drawing packages as part of your model.
If you want to import vector data saved as files of type
*.dxf, *.eps, *.ai, *.wmf or *.pic into an open model:
1. Click on the Import EPS, DXF or AI Files
button in the File area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Vector Import
dialog box:

2. Click on the Look In list box and find the file

that you want to import.
3. Once you have found the file, click on the file
name listed in the main window of the Vector
Import dialog box.
The file name you have clicked on appears in
the File Name box.

142 • Working with Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 4. Click on the Open button to import
the file into the open model.
The imported vector object is magenta.
Note: You can also open the Vector Data dialog box
by clicking on File in the Main menu bar, and then
selecting the Import Vector Data… option.

Exporting Vector Files

You can export a vector object as data. This data can then
be used in other drawing packages supporting *.eps, *.dxf
and *.pic file formats.
To export a vector object as data:
1. Select the vector object that you want to export.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” in the
Working with Vectors chapter.
2. Click on the File option in the Main menu bar
to display the File menu:

3. Click on the Export Vector Data option to

open the Vector Export dialog box:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Models • 143

 4. Click on the Save In list box and select the
directory you want to save the vector object in.
5. Type the file name you want to use for the
vector object in the File name box.
6. Click on the Save as type list box, and then
click on the file type you want to save the
vector object as.
7. Click on the Save button .

Correcting an Action
There are two buttons you can use to correct your
mistakes when working in ArtCAM 2D:
• Click the Undo button to cancel your last
action.
• Click the Redo button to repeat the last
action that you had made before clicking on the
Undo button.
Note: You can either Undo or Redo an action by
clicking on File in the Main menu bar, and then selecting
the relative option listed. For example, Undo Draw
Ellipse.

Mirroring a Model
You can mirror an open model both vertically and
horizontally.
To mirror a model horizontally:
1. Click on the Model option in the Main menu to
display the Model menu, then click on Mirror
> Horizontal:

To mirror a model vertically:

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 1. Click on the Model option in the Main menu to
display the Model menu, then click on Mirror
> Vertical:

Rotating a Model
You can rotate an open model both clockwise and anti-
clockwise.
To rotate a model clockwise:
1. Click on the Model option in the Main menu to
display the Model menu, then click on Rotate
90 Degrees > Clockwise to turn the model
through 90° in a clockwise direction:

To rotate a model anti-clockwise:

1. Click on the Model option in the Main menu to
display the Model menu, then click on Rotate
90 Degrees > AntiClockwise to turn the
model through 90° in an anti-clockwise
direction:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Models • 145

146 • Working with Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide
Working with Vectors

Drawing using Vectors

In ArtCAM 2D, it is not only possible to import vector
artwork from other applications or convert a bitmap
image into vector objects. For details, see “Importing
Vector Files” in the Working With Models chapter and
“Converting a Bitmap into Vectors” in the ArtTrace
chapter.
Once you have created or opened a model file, you can
use the drawing tools in the Vector Editing area of the
Assistant’s Home page to create your own vector
objects that can then be used to machine a 2D model.

Vector Editing Tools

A vector object, or object-oriented graphic, is made up of
a sequence of commands or mathematical statements that
places lines and shapes in a given two-dimensional or
three-dimensional space. Vector objects are fully scalable
without loss of resolution, and file sizes are independent
of resolution.
In ArtCAM 2D, you can create vector objects in the form
of simple shapes including a square, rectangle, circle,
ellipse, polygon and star. With a polyline, you can also
create your own shape of vector object. Finally, you can
create vector objects in the form of text in any selected
font.
The suite of Vector Editing tools is found on the
Assistant’s Home page:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 147

 Creating a Polyline
You can use the Create Polyline button to create a
polyline, which is one or more linear spans joined
together by points (nodes).
You are able to manipulate the polyline that you have
drawn in order to form new vector objects.
To create a polyline:
1. Click on the Create Polyline button in the
Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Polyline Creation
page.
Note: Clicking on clears the page of all
reference material relating to a specific button. However,
it is recommended that you until you are
familiar with each of the ArtCAM 2D commands.

2. Click once in the 2D View window to create

the start point (node) of the polyline.

148 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 3. Drag the mouse. A dotted line appears
indicating where the polyline is to be drawn.
4. Click at the position where you want to create
another point (node) in the polyline.

Tip: Press and hold the Ctrl key on your keyboard

during each click of the mouse to constrain the angle of
the linear span drawn between points (nodes) to 15°
increments.

A linear span is drawn connecting the two

points (nodes).
Repeat Steps 3 and 4 if you want to create
further points (nodes) in the polyline connected
by linear spans.
5. Right-click to end the polyline and return to the
Assistant’s Home page.
You can also end the polyline if you:

• Press the Esc key on your keyboard.

• Click the Close button on the
Polyline Creation page in the Assistant
window.
For example, if you click in the right of the 2D View
window, drag downwards and left, and then right-click,
you can create a polyline that looks something like this:

Completing Polyline Creation

To complete the polyline you are drawing, but remain in
polyline creation mode:

• Press the Space Bar on your

keyboard.
To finish creating a polyline and return to the
Assistant’s Home page, leaving it as an open vector
object, you can either:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 149

 • Right-click on your mouse.

• Press the Esc key on your keyboard.

• Press the Enter key on your keyboard.

• Click on the Close button at the bottom
of the Polyline Creation page.
The polyline is black, indicating that an open vector
object has been created.

Closing a Polyline to Create a

Polygon
If you are in Polyline Creation mode, you can finish
creating a polyline and automatically join its start and last
points (nodes) to form a polygon if you:

1. Press the Tab key on your keyboard.

If you have already created a polyline, you can join its
start and last points (nodes) to form a polygon if you:
1. Select the polyline that you have created.
The polyline is black.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Click on the start point (node) and drag it to
meet the last point (node) in the polyline.
In both instances, the selected polyline changes from
black to blue, indicating that a closed vector object has
been created.
However, if you create a polygon from a polyline in
which two spans overlap another and then group it, the
polyline turns red with white circular shapes marking
the positions where the spans overlap when you select it:

150 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 Before… After…

For further information, see “Grouping Vector Objects”

on page 248.

Amending a Polyline
A polyline is made up of spans and points. A point, also
referred to as a node, is a mathematically defined point
connected by a linear, arc or bezier curve span. The
position of the points and the nature of the spans can be
altered after the polyline is created. For example, a linear
span can be changed to an arc or a bezier curve span.
You can change the appearance of a polyline using both
the Node Editing and Span Editing menu options.
The Span Editing menu is displayed when you right-
click on any span within a polyline. The Node Editing
menu is displayed when you right-click on any point
(node) within a polyline.

Selecting Vectors
You can select any number of vector objects in an open
model.
To select a single vector object:
1. Click on the Select Vectors button in the
Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s
Home page.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 151

 2. Click on the vector object to select it.
For example, if you click on a span within a polyline, a
bounding box appears around the polyline indicating that
it has been selected:

To select more than one vector object:

1. Click on the Select Vectors button in the
Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s
Home page.

2. Hold the Shift key on your keyboard, and

then click on each vector object that you want
to select.
Note: You can also click and drag around any number of
vector objects to select them. A bounding box surrounds
all selected vector objects.

An ungrouped, open vector object is black when selected.

An ungrouped, closed vector object is blue when
selected, unless the vector object’s direction of geometry
is anti-clockwise, and then it is green.
For details, see “Reversing a Vector Object’s Direction of
Geometry” on page 254.
A grouped, open vector object is blue when selected,
unless two spans overlap another within it, then it is red
with white circular shapes marking the positions
where the spans overlap.
A grouped, closed vector object is magenta when
selected.
If you click and drag around a vector object that you want
to select and it has one or more copies overlapping it, the
vector object turns red.

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 For details, see “Copying and Pasting Vector Objects” on
page 189 and “Grouping Vector Objects” on page 248.
A bounding box surrounds all vector objects you select.
Tip: To deselect a vector object you have selected by
mistake, hold the Shift key on your keyboard and
click.

Moving Vectors
You can move part or the whole of any selected vector
object to another area of an open model.
To move a point (node):
1. Select a vector object.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Move the cursor over any of the points (nodes)
in the vector object.
The cursor now changes to , the Node
Editing cursor.
3. Click and drag on the point (node), and then
release the mouse button to reposition it.
The vector object is redrawn to link the newly
positioned points (nodes).
To move a vector object to another position in the 2D
View window:
1. Select a vector object.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Move the cursor over a span in the vector
object.
The cursor now changes to , the Span
Editing cursor.
3. Click and drag on the whole vector object, then
release the mouse button to reposition it.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 153

 Editing Vector Spans
Spans within a vector object can be linear, arc or bezier
curve. You can change the appearance of a span using the
Span Editing options, displayed when you right-click
on a selected vector object.
The Span Editing options allow you to:
• Convert a span to a line.
• Convert a span to a bezier curve.
• Convert a span to an arc.
• Insert a point (node) into a span.
• Delete a span.

Converting a Span to a Bezier Curve

Converting a span to a bezier curve allows you to alter
the appearance of a linear or an arc span within a vector
object.
Converting a span to a bezier curve places two control
points on the span, both of which can be dragged to add
or reduce the curvature within the span.
To convert a span into a bezier curve:
1. Select a vector object.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Position the cursor over the middle of a linear
or an arc span. Right-click when the Span
Editing cursor appears to display the
Span Editing menu:

154 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 Note: Depending on the option that you select from the
Span Editing menu, it either affects the vector
currently selected, or the span below the mouse cursor
prior to a right-click.

3. Click on the Convert span to bezier option

to convert the span into a bezier curve.
Note: Moving the cursor over the span and pressing the
B key on your keyboard also converts it to a bezier
curve.

For example, your span may look something

like that shown below:

Although this span may not look like a curve

now, the two control points in it indicate that it
is a bezier curve span.
In our example, by dragging the control points
as shown below, a bezier curve span with a
smooth curvature is produced:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 155

 Inserting a Point
You can insert a point (node) in any span, whether it is a
line, bezier curve or an arc. Inserting a point divides a
span into two new spans of the same type as the original.
By inserting a point (node) you add greater flexibility in
changing the shape of a span, and, therefore, the whole
vector object.
To insert a point (node) in a span:
1. Select a vector object.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Position the cursor over the middle of a span.
Right-click when the Span Editing cursor
appears to display the Span Editing menu:

156 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 3. Click on the Insert a point option to produce
a new point (node) in the span, dividing it into
two separate spans.
For example, a point (node) has been inserted
into the bezier curve span illustrated below.
You can see that doing so has created a second
span and its adjoining control points:
Before…

After…

Note: Moving the cursor over the span and pressing the I
key on your keyboard also executes this action.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 157

 Tip: Adding points (nodes) to a vector object can be a
time consuming process. Alternatively, you can use the
Create Polyline tool to create more complicated shapes
from the beginning. With the tool selected, each
corresponding movement and click of the mouse creates
a new point and adjoins it to the last with a linear span.

Converting a Span to a Line

Converting a span to a line allows you to alter the
appearance of an arc or a bezier curve span within a
vector object.
To convert a span to a line:
1. Select a vector object.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Position the cursor over the middle of a span.
Right-click when the Span Editing cursor
appears to display the Span Editing menu:

3. Click on the Convert span to a line option

to convert the arc or the bezier curve span into a
linear span.
For example, if you were to convert a bezier
curve span to a linear span you would see that

158 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 its adjoining control points have been removed
along with any curvature, as shown below:
Before…

After…

Note: Moving the cursor over the span and pressing the
L key on your keyboard also executes this action.

Converting a Span to an Arc

Converting a span to an arc allows you to alter the
appearance of a linear or bezier curve span within a
vector object.
Converting a span to an arc places one control point in
the middle of the span. This can be dragged to add or
reduce the degree of curvature in the arc.
To convert a span into an arc:
1. Select a vector object.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Position the cursor over the middle of a span.
Right-click when the Span Editing cursor
appears to display the Span Editing menu:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 159

 3. Click on the Convert span to an arc option
to convert the linear or bezier curve span into an
arc span.
For example, if you were to convert a linear
span to an arc span you would see that one
control point is now positioned in the centre of
the arc, as shown below:
Before…

After…

160 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 Note: Moving the cursor over the span and pressing the
A key on your keyboard also executes this action.

Removing a Span
You can delete a linear, bezier curve or an arc span
within any selected vector object in the same way.
To remove a span:
1. Select a vector object.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Position the cursor over the middle of a span.
Right-click when the Span Editing cursor
appears to display the Span Editing menu.
For example, a vector object with two spans
appears as follows:

3. Click on the Remove Span option to delete

the selected span:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 161

 Note: Moving the cursor over the span and pressing the
R key on your keyboard also removes it.

In our example, if you select and remove Span 2

of the vector object, the following vector object
remains:

Editing Vector Nodes

You can change the structure and appearance of a vector
object using the Node Editing options.
The Node Editing menu is displayed when you right-
click on any point (node) within a selected vector object.
The Node Editing options allow you to:
• Smooth a point (node).
• Delete a point (node).
• Change the position of the start point.

162 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 Smoothing Points
You can smooth any point (node) in a vector object other
than the start or last point (node) in an ungrouped, open
vector object. This is because there must be a span on
either side of a point (node) for the smoothing process to
take place, and there is not in these instances.
An ungrouped, open vector object is black when selected.
An ungrouped, closed vector object is blue, unless the
vector object’s direction of geometry is anti-clockwise,
and then it is green when selected.
In smoothing, the span on either side of the point (node)
is converted to a bezier curve span. Therefore, control
points are automatically adjoined to the point (node),
allowing you to control the degree of curvature in the
whole vector object.
To smooth a point:
1. Select a vector object that you want to smooth.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Move the cursor over a point (node) in order
that it changes to the Node Editing cursor ,
then right-click to open the Node Editing
menu:

3. Click on the Smooth Point option to smooth

the selected point (node):

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 163

 Note: Moving the cursor over the point (node) and
pressing the S key on your keyboard also smoothes
it.

The point (node) is blue when the Smooth

Point option is selected.
For example, the point (node) in the middle of
the vector object shown below has been
smoothed:

If you move one of the control points adjoined

to the smoothed point (node), the other
automatically moves with it. This simultaneous
movement preserves the smoothness of the
junction between the two bezier curve spans.
If you want to remove the smoothing option from a
smoothed point:
1. Select a vector object that is smoothed.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Move the cursor over a smoothed point (node)
in order that it changes to the Node Editing
cursor , then right-click to open the Node
Editing menu.
3. Click on the Smooth Point option to deselect
it.
The point (node) turns black when the Smooth
Point option is deselected.
Although the span on either side of the point
(node) remains as a bezier curve span,

164 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 deselecting the Smooth Point option causes
the control point on either side of the point
(node) to affect its adjoining bezier curve span
only, rather than the whole vector object.
In our example, you can see that moving one
control point no longer automatically moves the
other:

Deleting Points
You can delete any of the points (nodes) within a vector
object.
Deleting a point does not change the type of span on
either side of the point (node), but it does reduce your
ability to manipulate the shape of the whole vector object.
To delete a point (node) in a vector object:
1. Select a vector object.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Move the cursor over a point (node) in order
that it changes to the Node Editing cursor ,
then right-click to open the Node Editing
menu:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 165

 3. Click on the Delete Point option to delete the
point (node) from the vector object.
Note: Moving the cursor over the point (node) and
pressing the D key on your keyboard also deletes it.

For example, you can see that in deleting the

middle point (node) in the vector object shown
below, the number of control points is reduced
and its shape is changed considerably:
Before…

After…

Changing the Start Point

The start point (node) in a vector object determines the
point at which a tool enters the block of material when
you are machining your 2D model.
You can change the position of the start point (node) in
any vector object.
The green point (node) within a vector object indicates
the current position of the start point.
To change the position of the start point (node):
1. Select a vector object.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.

166 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 2. Move the cursor over a point (node) in order
that it changes to the Node Editing cursor ,
then right-click to open the Node Editing
menu:

3. Click on the Start Point option to change the

selected node to the start point.
Note: Moving the cursor over the point (node) and

pressing the P key on your keyboard also changes it

to the start point.

The point (node) changes from black to green.

Creating Simple Closed Shapes

In addition to the Create Polyline button , as
detailed in “Creating a Polyline” on page 148, there are a
further five buttons in the Vector Editing area of the
Assistant’s Home page that allow you to create specific
shapes of vector object.
You can create:
• Rectangles or Squares.
For details, see “Creating a Rectangle” on page
168.
• Circles.
For details, see “Creating a Circle” on page 172.
• Ellipses.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 167

 For details, see “Creating an Ellipse” on page
176.
• Polygons.
For details, see “Creating a Polygon” on page
180.
• Stars.
For details, see “Creating a Star” on page 184.

Creating a Rectangle
You can create either an exact or an approximate square
or rectangular shaped vector object.
To create an exact square or rectangle:
1. Click on the Create Rectangle button in
the Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Rectangle
Creation page.
2. Click on the Square or Rectangle radio
button to select the type of shape you want
to create.
3. Type the height you want for the shape in the
Height box.
4. Type the width you want for the shape in the
Width box.
5. If you want filleted (rounded) corners, type the
radius you want to apply to all four corners in
the Corner Radii box.
If you do not want filleted (rounded) corners,
leave the default value of 0 in the Corner
Radii box.
6. Define the centre point of your shape:
• Type values in the Centre Point’s X and Y
boxes.
• Move the cursor to the point in the model
you are interested in and click.

168 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 The X and Y co-ordinates of the point you
click on appear in the Centre Point’s X
and Y boxes.
7. If you want your shape to be drawn at a specific
angle, type a value in the Angle box:
• Type a positive value in the Angle box to
rotate the shape clockwise.
• Type a negative value in the Angle box to
rotate the shape anti-clockwise.
If you do not want your shape to be drawn at a
specific angle, leave the default value of 0 in the
Angle box.
8. Click on the Preview button to draw a
preview image of the shape you are creating in
the 2D View window.
9. If you want to draw your shape and remain in
Rectangle Creation mode:
• Click on the Create button .
If you want to draw your shape and return to the
Assistant’s Home page:
• Click the right mouse button.
To create an approximate sized square or rectangle:
1. Move the cursor to the point in the model
where you want to draw the shape.
2. Click and drag to form the shape you want to
create.
3. Release the mouse button to draw a preview
image of the shape you are creating in the 2D
View window.
4. If you want to draw your shape and remain in
Rectangle Creation mode:
• Click on the Create button .
If you want to draw your shape and return to the
Assistant’s Home page:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 169

 • Click the Create button and then the
Close button on the Rectangle
Creation page.
• Click the right mouse button.

Editing a Square or Rectangle

You can edit the size, position, corners and/or angle of a
square or rectangular shaped vector object.
To begin editing a square or rectangle:
1. Select the square or rectangle you want to edit
in the open model.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Right-click on the selected shape to display the
Vector Editing menu:

3. Click on the Edit Rectangle option to display

the Rectangle Editing page in the Assistant
window.
The selected shape now appears as a preview
image with resizing handles attached to it, and a
rotation handle about its centre point:

170 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 Note: You can display the Rectangle Editing page in
the Assistant window by selecting a square or
rectangle, and pressing the E key on your keyboard.

You can now change the size, position, corners and/or

angle of the selected square or rectangle using the
Rectangle Editing page in the Assistant window, or
by manipulating the handles on the shape itself.
To edit the selected square or rectangle using the
Rectangle Editing page in the Assistant window:
• Type a new value in the appropriate box for
each attribute of the shape that you want to
adjust.
For example, typing a new value in the Height
box immediately increases or decreases the
height of the selected square or rectangle.
You can edit the selected square or rectangle using the
shape itself:
• Click and drag any of the resizing handles to
adjust the size of the shape.
The new height and width of the shape appears
in the Height and Width boxes on the
Rectangle Editing page.
Tip: To create an exact square, hold down the Shift key
on your keyboard and drag the resizing handles on
your rectangle to the required size.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 171

 • Click and drag any of the corner handles to add
filleting to all four corners of the shape.
The new radius of the filleted corners of the
shape appears in the Corner Radii box on the
Rectangle Editing page.
• Click and drag the rotation handle to adjust the
angle of the shape.
Drag the rotation handle clockwise to produce a
positive value in the Angle box on the
Rectangle Editing page.
Drag the rotation handle anti-clockwise to
produce a negative value in the Angle box on
the Rectangle Editing page.
• Move the cursor over the centre point of the
shape until it changes to the cursor, then
click and drag to adjust its position.
The new centre point of the shape appears in the
Centre Point’s X and Y boxes on the
Rectangle Editing page.
To confirm the new shape shown in the 2D View
window and return to the Assistant’s Home page:
• Click on the Apply button and then the
Close button on the Rectangle
Editing page.
• Click the right mouse button.

Creating a Circle
You can create a circular shaped vector object.
To create an exact circle:
1. Click on the Create Circle button in the
Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Circle Creation
page.
2. Define the centre point of your circle:
• Type values in the Circle Centre’s X and Y
boxes.

172 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 • Move the cursor to the point in the model
you are interested in and click.
The X and Y co-ordinates of the point you
click on appear in the Circle Centre’s X
and Y boxes.
3. Type a value in the Circle Radius box.
4. Click on the Preview button to draw a
preview image of the circle you are creating in
the 2D View window.
5. If you want to draw your circle and remain in
Circle Creation mode:
• Click on the Create button .
If you want to draw your circle and return to the
Assistant’s Home page:
• Click the right mouse button.
To create an approximate sized circle:
1. Move the cursor to the point in the model
where you want to draw the circle.
2. Click and drag to create the size of circle you
want.
3. Release the mouse button to draw a preview
image of the circle you are creating in the 2D
View window.
4. If you want to draw your circle and remain in
Circle Creation mode:
• Click on the Create button .
If you want to draw your circle and return to the
Assistant’s Home page:
• Click the Create button and then the
Close button on the Circle
Creation page.
• Click the right mouse button.

Editing a Circle
You can edit the radius and position of a circular shaped
vector object.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 173

 To edit a circle:
1. Select the circle you want to edit in the open
model.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Right-click on the circle to display the Vector
Editing menu:

3. Click on the Edit Circle option to display the

Circle Editing page in the Assistant
window.
The selected circle now appears as a preview
image with a resizing handle positioned on its
circumference:

174 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 Note: You can display the Circle Editing page in the
Assistant window by selecting a circle, and pressing
the E key on your keyboard.

You can now change the size and position of the selected
circle using the Circle Editing page in the Assistant
window, or by manipulating the resizing handle and the
centre point on the shape itself.
To edit the selected circle using the Circle Editing page
in the Assistant window:
• Type a new value in the appropriate box for
either of the shape’s attributes that you want to
adjust.
For example, typing a new value in the Radius
box immediately increases or decreases the size
of the selected circle.
You can edit the selected circle using the shape itself:
• Click and drag the resizing handle positioned on
the circumference of the circle to adjust its
radius.
The new radius of the circle appears in the
Radius box on the Circle Editing page.
• Move the cursor over the centre point of the
circle until it changes to the cursor, then
click and drag to adjust its position.
The new centre point of the circle appears in the
Centre Point’s X and Y boxes on the Circle
Editing page.

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 To confirm the new circle shown in the 2D View
window and return to the Assistant’s Home page:
• Click on the Apply button and then the
Close button on the Circle Editing
page.
• Click the right mouse button.

Creating an Ellipse
You can create an elliptical shaped vector object.
To create an exact ellipse:
1. Click on the Create Ellipse button in the
Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Ellipse Creation
page.
2. Define the centre point of your ellipse. To do
so:
• Type appropriate values in the Start
Point’s X and Y boxes.
• Move the cursor to the point in the model
you are interested in and click.
The X and Y co-ordinates of the point you click
on appear in the Start Point’s X and Y boxes.
3. Type the height you want for the ellipse in the
Ellipse Height box.
4. Type the width you want for the ellipse in the
Ellipse Width box.
5. If you want your ellipse to be drawn at a
specific angle, type a value in the Angle box.
• Type a positive value in the Angle box to
rotate the ellipse clockwise.
• Type a negative value in the Angle box to
rotate the ellipse anti-clockwise.
If you do not want your ellipse to be drawn at a
specific angle, leave the default value of 0 in the
Angle box.

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 6. Click on the Preview button to draw a
preview image of the circle you are creating in
the 2D View window.
7. If you want to draw your ellipse and remain in
Ellipse Creation mode:
• Click on the Create button .
If you want to draw your ellipse and return to
the Assistant’s Home page:
• Click the right mouse button.
To create an approximate sized ellipse:
1. Move the cursor to the point in the model
where you want to draw the ellipse.
2. Click and drag to create the size of ellipse you
want.
3. Release the mouse button to draw a preview
image of the ellipse you are creating in the 2D
View window.
4. If you want to draw your ellipse and remain in
Ellipse Creation mode:
• Click on the Create button .
If you want to draw your ellipse and return to
the Assistant’s Home page:
• Click the Create button and then the
Close button on the Ellipse
Creation page.
• Click the right mouse button.

Editing an Ellipse
You can edit the size, position and/or angle of an
elliptical shaped vector object.
To edit an ellipse:
1. Select the ellipse you want to edit in the open
model.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.

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 2. Right-click on the selected ellipse to display the
Vector Editing menu:

3. Click on the Edit Ellipse option to display the

Ellipse Editing page in the Assistant
window.
The selected ellipse now appears as a preview
image with resizing handles attached to it, and a
rotation handle about its centre point:

Note: You can display the Ellipse Editing page in the

Assistant window by selecting an ellipse, and pressing
the E key on your keyboard.

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 You can now change the size, position and/or angle of the
selected ellipse using the Ellipse Editing page in the
Assistant window, or by manipulating the handles on
the ellipse itself.
To edit the selected ellipse using the Ellipse Editing
page in the Assistant window:
• Type a new value in the appropriate box for
each attribute of the ellipse that you want to
adjust.
For example, typing a new value in the Height
box immediately increases or decreases the
height of the ellipse.
You can edit the selected ellipse using the shape itself:
• Click and drag any of the resizing handles to
adjust the size of the ellipse.
The new height and width of the ellipse appears
in the Height and Width boxes on the Ellipse
Editing page.
• Click and drag the rotation handle to adjust the
angle of the ellipse.
Drag the rotation handle clockwise to produce a
positive value in the Angle box on the Ellipse
Editing page.
Drag the rotation handle anti-clockwise to
produce a negative value in the Angle box on
the Ellipse Editing page.
• Move the cursor over the centre point of the
ellipse until it changes to the cursor, then
click and drag to adjust its position.
The new centre point of the ellipse appears in
the Start Point’s X and Y boxes on the
Ellipse Editing page.
To confirm the new ellipse shown in the 2D View
window and return to the Assistant’s Home page:
• Click on the Apply button and then the
Close button on the Ellipse Editing
page.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 179

 • Click the right mouse button.

Creating a Polygon
You can create a vast range of polygonal shaped vector
objects.
To create an exact polygon:
1. Click on the Create Polygons button in
the Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Polygon Creation
page.
2. Type the number of sides you want in the
polygon in the Settings’ No. of Sides box.
Warning: A polygon must have a minimum number of
three sides. Typing a value of 3 in the Settings’ No. of
Sides box produces a triangle.

3. If you want your polygon to be drawn at a

specific angle, type a value in the Settings’
Angle box.
• Type a positive value in the Angle box to
rotate the polygon clockwise.
• Type a negative value in the Angle box to
rotate the polygon anti-clockwise.
If you do not want your polygon to be drawn at
a specific angle, leave the default value of 0 in
the Settings’ Angle box.
4. Define the centre point of your polygon. To do
so:
• Type values in the Polygon Centre’s X
and Y boxes.
• Move the cursor to the point in the model
you are interested in and click.
The X and Y co-ordinates of the point you
click on appear in the Polygon Centre’s X
and Y boxes.
5. Type a value in the Geometry’s Radius box.

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 6. Click on the Preview button to draw a
preview image of the polygon you are creating
in the 2D View window.
7. If you want to draw your polygon and remain in
Polygon Creation mode:
• Click on the Create button .
If you want to draw your polygon and return to
the Assistant’s Home page:
• Click the right mouse button.
To create an approximate sized polygon:
1. Move the cursor to the point in the model
where you want to draw the polygon.
2. Click and drag to create the size of polygon you
want.
3. Release the mouse button to draw a preview
image of the polygon you are creating in the 2D
View window.
4. If you want to draw your polygon and remain in
Polygon Creation mode:
• Click on the Create button .
If you want to draw your polygon and return to
the Assistant’s Home page:
• Click the Create button and then the
Close button on the Polygon
Creation page.
• Click the right mouse button.

Editing a Polygon
You can edit the size, position, sides and/or angle of a
polygonal shaped vector object.
To edit a polygon:
1. Select the polygon you want to edit in the open
model.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 181

 2. Right-click on the polygon to display the
Vector Editing menu:

3. Click on the Edit Polygon option to display

the Polygon Editing page in the Assistant
window.
The polygon now appears as a preview image
with resizing handles attached to it, and a
rotation handle about its centre point:

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 Note: You can display the Polygon Editing page in
the Assistant window by selecting a polygon, and
pressing the E key on your keyboard.

You can now change the size, position, sides and/or the
angle of the selected polygon using the Polygon
Editing page in the Assistant window, or by
manipulating the handles on the polygon itself.
To edit the selected polygon using the Polygon Editing
page in the Assistant window:
• Type a new value in the appropriate box for
each attribute of the polygon that you want to
adjust.
For example, typing a new value in the No. of
Sides box immediately increases or decreases
the number of sides in the selected polygon.
You can edit the selected polygon using the shape itself:
• Click and drag any of the resizing handles to
adjust the size of the polygon.
The new size of the polygon appears in the
Geometry’s Radius box on the Polygon
Editing page.
• Click and drag the rotation handle to adjust the
angle of the polygon.
Drag the rotation handle clockwise to produce a
positive value in the Settings’ Angle box on
the Polygon Editing page.
Drag the rotation handle anti-clockwise to
produce a negative value in the Settings’
Angle box on the Polygon Editing page.
• Move the cursor over the centre point of the
polygon until it changes to the cursor, then
click and drag to adjust its position.
The new centre point of the polygon appears in
the Polygon Centre’s X and Y boxes on the
Polygon Editing page.

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 To confirm the new polygon shown in the 2D View
window and return to the Assistant’s Home page:
• Click on the Apply button and then the
Close button on the Polygon Editing
page.
• Click the right mouse button.

Creating a Star
You can create a star shaped vector object.
To create an exact star:
1. Click on the Create Star button in the
Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Star Creation page.
2. Type the number of sides you want in the
polygon in the Settings’ No. of Points box.
Warning: A star must have a minimum number of three
points.

3. If you want your star to be drawn at a specific

angle, type a value in the Settings’ Angle
box.
• Type a positive value in the Angle box to
rotate the star clockwise.
• Type a negative value in the Angle box to
rotate the star anti-clockwise.
If you do not want your star to be drawn at a
specific angle, leave the default value of 0 in the
Settings’ Angle box.
4. Define the centre point of your star. To do so:
• Type values in the Star Centre’s X and Y
boxes.
• Move the cursor to the point in the model
you are interested in and click.
The X and Y co-ordinates of the point you
click on appear in the Star Centre’s X and
Y boxes.

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 5. Type a value in the Geometry’s Radius of
first Points box.
This sets the radius of a polygon, upon which
the outer points (nodes) in the star lie.
6. Type a value in the Geometry’s Radius of
second Points box.
This sets the radius of a polygon, upon which
the inner points (nodes) in the star lie.
7. Click on the Preview button to draw a
preview image of the star you are creating in the
2D View window.
8. If you want to draw your star and remain in
Star Creation mode:
• Click on the Create button .
If you want to draw your star and return to the
Assistant’s Home page:
• Click the right mouse button.
To create an approximate sized star:
1. Move the cursor to the point in the model
where you want to draw the star.
2. Click and drag to create a polygon, upon which
the outer points (nodes) in the star lie.
3. Click and drag to create a polygon, upon which
the inner points (nodes) in the star lie.
4. Release the mouse button to draw a preview
image of the star you are creating in the 2D
View window.
5. If you want to draw your star and remain in
Star Creation mode:
• Click on the Create button .
If you want to draw your star and return to the
Assistant’s Home page:
• Click the Create button and then the
Close button on the Star Creation
page.
• Click the right mouse button.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 185

 Editing a Star
You can edit the size, position, sides and/or angle of a
star shaped vector object.
To edit a star:
1. Select the star you want to edit in the open
model.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Right-click on the star to display the Vector
Editing menu:

3. Click on the Edit Star option to display the

Star Editing page in the Assistant window.
The star now appears as a preview image with
resizing handles attached to it, and a rotation
handle about its centre point:

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 Note: You can display the Star Editing page in the
Assistant window by selecting a star, and pressing the
E key on your keyboard.

You can now change the size, position, sides and/or the
angle of the selected star using the Star Editing page in
the Assistant window, or by manipulating the handles
on the star itself.
To edit the selected star using the Star Editing page in
the Assistant window:
• Type a new value in the appropriate box for
each attribute of the star that you want to adjust.
For example, typing a new value in the No. of
Sides box immediately increases or decreases
the number of sides in the selected star.
You can edit the selected star using the shape itself:
• Click and drag any of the inner or outer resizing
handles to adjust the size and shape of the star.
The new size of the star appears in the
Geometry’s Radius of first Points and/or
Radius of second Points boxes on the Star
Editing page.
• Click and drag the rotation handle to adjust the
angle of the star.

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 Drag the rotation handle clockwise to produce a
positive value in the Settings’ Angle box on
the Star Editing page.
Drag the rotation handle anti-clockwise to
produce a negative value in the Settings’
Angle box on the Star Editing page.
• Move the cursor over the centre point of the
star until it changes to the cursor, then click
and drag to adjust its position.
The new centre point of the star appears in the
Star Centre’s X and Y boxes on the Star
Editing page.
To confirm the new star shown in the 2D View window
and return to the Assistant’s Home page:
• Click on the Apply button and then the
Close button on the Star Editing page.
• Click the right mouse button.

Editing Vector Objects

You can edit any of the standard shapes of vector object
in a model: square, rectangle, circle, ellipse, polygon and
star.
You cannot edit any of the vector objects that you have:
• Created with the Polyline Creation tool.
For details, see “Creating a Polyline” on page
148.
• Imported directly into ArtCAM 2D.
For details, see “Importing Vector Files” in the
Working With Models chapter.
• Created from a bitmap image using the
ArtTrace tool.
For details, see “Converting a Bitmap into
Vectors” in the ArtTrace chapter.
To edit any of the standard shapes of vector object, select
the vector object, then either:

188 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 • Press the E key on your keyboard.
• Right-click and select the Edit command
relevant to the particular shape of vector object
e.g. Edit Ellipse.
ArtCAM 2D displays the Editing page which is relevant
to the selected shape of vector object e.g. Ellipse
Editing.
You are then able to change the properties relating to the
selected shape of vector object by modifying the
appropriate values. For example, Height.

Copying and Pasting Vector

Objects
There are three buttons in the File area of the
Assistant’s Home page that you can use to copy, paste
and cut vector objects in an open model.
You can also create multiple copies of a vector object in
two regular patterns using the Block Copy / Rotate
button in the Vector Editing area of the
Assistant’s Home page:
• Block copy.
• Rotate copy.
To copy, paste or cut a vector object:
1. Select the vector object(s) that you want to
copy, paste or cut.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. In the File area of the Assistant’s Home page,
click on the appropriate button:
• If you want to remove the selected vector
object and place it on the clipboard, click on
the Cut button .
• If you want to create a duplicate of the
selected vector object and place it on the
clipboard, click on the Copy button .

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 189

 • If you want to place an identical vector
object in the model, overlapping the original,
click on the Paste button .
Note: If you click and drag around a vector object that
you want to select and it has one or more copies
overlapping it, the vector object turns red.

To move a pasted copy, move the cursor over

the selected vector object until it changes to a
, then click and drag into position.
Note: You can also cut, copy or paste a selected vector
object by clicking on Edit in the Main menu bar, and
then selecting the appropriate option.

Block Copy
You can produce several copies of a selected vector
object in a grid format:

To make copies of a selected vector object in this way:

1. Select a vector object in the open model.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Click on the Block Copy / Rotate button
in the Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Block and Rotate
Copy page.
3. Click on the Block Copy option to select it .

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 4. Type the distance you want to set between each
copy along the X-axis in the X Offset box.
The values you type in Steps 4 and 5 set the
distance between the bottom left corner of each
subsequent copy of the vector object you
produce.
You can set the distance you want between each
copy using a positive or negative value.
For example, if you want to create a block of
copies to the right and above a selected vector
object, type a positive value in the X Offset
box e.g. 90.0.
If you want to create a block of copies to the
left and below a selected vector object, type a
positive value in the X Offset box e.g. -90.0.
5. Type the distance you want to set between each
copy along the Y-axis in the Y Offset box.
6. Type a value in the Number of Rows box.
7. Type a value in the Number of Columns
box.
8. Click on the Apply button to create the
block of copies in the model.
9. Click on the Close button to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.

Rotate Copy
You can produce several copies of a selected vector
object in a circular pattern using a user-defined rotation
centre:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 191

 To make copies of a selected vector object in this way:
1. Select a vector object in the open model.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Click on the Block Copy / Rotate button
in the Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Block and Rotate
Copy page.
3. Click on the Rotate Copy option to select it
.
4. Define the point around which you want to
rotate the selected vector object:
• Type a value in both the Rotation Centre
X and Rotation Centre Y boxes.
• Click on the Pick Centre with Mouse
option to select it , then move the
cursor over the point in the model you want
to use as the origin for the rotation and click.
5. Click on the appropriate Angle radio button :
• Incremental - To rotate each copy of the
selected vector object by the specified angle
in relation to its predecessor.
• Total - To rotate each copy of the selected
vector object by the specified angle.
6. Type an angle of rotation in the degrees box:
• Type a positive value in the degrees box to
rotate the vector object clockwise.

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 • Type a negative value in the degrees box
to rotate the vector object anti-clockwise.
7. Type the number of copies you want to make in
the Number of Objects box.
8. Click on the Apply button to create the
circular pattern of copies in the model.
9. Click on the Close button to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.

Offsetting Vector Objects

You can create an offset vector from any of the vector
objects already drawn in a model:

To create an offset vector from a vector object:

1. Select the vector object from which you want to
create an offset vector.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Click on the Offset Vector(s) button in
the Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 193

 Home page to display the Offset Vector(s)
page.
3. Type a value in the Offset Distance box to
determine the distance between the selected
vector object and the offset vector.
This value is defined according to the units of
measurement you had originally selected in the
Setup Job Dimensions dialog box
(millimetres or inches).
For details, see “Creating a Model” in the
Working With Models chapter.
4. Click on the appropriate Offset Direction
radio button to set the position of the offset
vector:
• Select Inwards if you want the offset vector
drawn within the selected vector object.
• Select Outwards if you want the offset
vector drawn outside of the selected vector
object.
5. Click on the Offset button to draw the
offset vector in the model.
The Offsetting Contours dialog box is
displayed while ArtCAM 2D calculates the
position of the offset vector:

Note: You may not see the Offsetting Contours

dialog box if you are creating an offset vector from a
simple shape of vector object. For example, a circle.

6. Click on the Close button to return to

the Assistant’s Home page.

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 You can also display the Offset Vector(s) page in the
Assistant window if you:
1. Select the vector object from which you want to
create an offset vector.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Click on the Vectors option in the Main menu
bar to display the Vectors menu, then on the
Offset… option:

Smoothing Vector Objects

You can smooth an ungrouped vector object by
converting each of its linear and/or arc spans to bezier
curve spans.
For example, a polyline made up entirely of linear spans
changes considerably when smoothed:
Before…

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 195

 After…

Smoothing automatically replaces all of the linear and arc

spans within a selected vector object with bezier curve
spans.
For details, see “Editing Vector Spans” on page 154.
To smooth a vector object:
1. Select the vector object that you want to
smooth.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Click on the Smooth Vectors button in
the Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s
Home page to open the Smooth Vectors page
in the Assistant window.
The number of spans (lines, bezier curves and
arcs), points (nodes) and control points that
make up the selected vector object is
automatically displayed in the Selected
Vectors Information area of the Smooth
Vectors page.
3. Type a value in the Tolerance box to specify
how closely you want the bezier curve spans to
follow the points (nodes) in the selected vector
object(s).
4. Click on the radio button you want to use:
• Select Ignore Straight Spans to fit bezier
curve spans between all points (nodes) in the
selected vector object(s).
• Select Preserve Straight Spans to fit
bezier curve spans between all points
(nodes) in the selected vector object(s),

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 except where linear spans are of the length
you type in the Keep lines longer than
box.
This value is defined according to the units
of measurement you had selected in the
Setup Job Dimensions dialog box
(millimetres or inches) when creating the
model.
For details, see “Creating a Model” in the
Working With Models chapter.
5. Click on the Smooth button to smooth
the selected vector object(s).
6. Click on the Close button to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.
New points (nodes) and control points appear on the
smoothed vector object(s). These can be used to
manipulate the shape of the vector object(s) further.
For details, see “Editing Vector Spans” on page 154 and
“Editing Vector Nodes” on page 162.
You can also display the Smooth Vectors page in the
Assistant window if you:
1. Select the vector object that you want to
smooth.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Click on the Vectors option in the Main menu
bar to display the Vectors menu, then on the
Smooth Vectors… option:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 197

 Restoring the Original Shape of a
Smoothed Vector
You can restore the original shape of a smoothed vector
object.
To restore the original shape of a smoothed vector object:
• Click on the Edit option in the Main menu to
display the Edit menu, then click on the Undo
Spline Vectors option:

• Press the Ctrl and Z keys

simultaneously on your keyboard.

Locking and Unlocking Vector

Objects
You can prevent a vector object from being moved to a
different position in a model by locking it.
To do so:

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 1. Select the vector object that you want to lock
into position.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Right-click to open the Vector Editing menu,
then select the Lock Vector(s) option:

The selected vector object turns grey.

If you want to move any vector object that has previously
been locked into position:
1. Select the locked vector object that you want to
move.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Right-click to open the Vector Editing menu,
then select the Unlock Vector(s) option:

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 The selected vector object turns black if it is an
open vector object, blue if it is a closed vector
object with a clockwise direction of geometry,
or green if it is a closed vector object with an
anti-clockwise direction of geometry.

Fitting Arcs to Vector Objects

You can automatically replace all of a selected vector
object’s bezier curve spans with a series of arc spans
whilst maintaining its original shape.
For details, see “Editing Vector Spans” on page 154.
To do so:
1. Select the vector object(s) that you want to fit
arc spans to.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Click on the Arc Fit Vectors button in the
Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s
Home page to open the Fit Arcs To Vectors
page in the Assistant window.

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 The number of spans (linear, bezier curve and
arc) points (nodes) and control points in the
selected vector object is automatically displayed
in the Selected Vectors Information area of
the Fit Arcs To Vectors page.
Note: The points (nodes) and control points in a selected
vector object are grouped together under Points in the
Selected Vectors Information area of the page.

3. Type a value in the Tolerance box specifying

how closely you want the arc spans to follow
the original shape of the bezier curve spans in
the selected vector object(s).
4. Click on the Fit Arcs button to convert
all bezier curve spans in the selected vector
object(s) to a series of arc spans.
The new number of spans (linear, bezier curve
and arc), points (nodes) and control points in
the selected vector object(s) is automatically
displayed in the Selected Vectors
Information area of the Fit Arcs To Vectors
page.
Note: If a bezier curve span in the selected vector object
has no curvature, it is automatically converted to a linear
span.

5. Click on the Close button to return to

the Assistant’s Home page
New points (nodes) and control points appear on the
selected vector object(s). These can be used to manipulate
the shape of the vector object(s) further.
For details, see “Editing Vector Spans” on page 154 and
“Editing Vector Nodes” on page 162.
You can also display the Fit Arcs To Vectors page in
the Assistant window if you:
1. Select the vector object(s) that you want to fit
arcs to.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 201

 2. Click on the Vectors option in the Main menu
bar to display the Vectors menu, then on the
Fit arcs to vectors option:

Pasting Vectors Along a Curve

You can paste copies of a selected vector object along
another curved vector object within a model.
To do so:

1. Hold the Shift key on your keyboard, and

then click on the vector object that you want to
copy and paste, followed by the curved vector
object that you want to paste these copies along.
The selected vector objects turn magenta.
2. Click on the Paste Along A Curve button
in the Vector Editing area of the
Assistant’s Home page to display the Paste
Along A Curve page.
3. Select the pasting method that you want to use:
• Click on the Specify Number radio button
, then type a value in the Number of
Copies box.
• Click on the Specify Distance radio
button , then type a value in the Distance
Between Copies box.

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 4. If you want to make the spacing between the
copies even, click on the Make Spacing
Even option to turn it on .
5. Click on the Paste button to produce the
copies along the selected curved vector object.
For example, the following image shows five
copies of a star shaped vector object pasted
evenly along a curved vector object:

6. Click on the Close button to return to

the Assistant’s Home page.
You can also display the Paste Along A Curve page in
the Assistant window if you:

1. Hold the Shift key on your keyboard, and

then click on the vector object that you want to
copy and paste, followed by the curved vector
object that you want to paste these copies along.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Click on the Vectors option in the Main menu
bar to display the Vectors menu, then on the
Paste Vectors on Curve… option:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 203

Working with Vector Text
You can create and manipulate vector text automatically
with two simple tools in the Vector Editing area of the
Assistant’s Home page. These are:
• The Create Vector Text button .
• The Wrap Text round a Curve button

Creating Vector Text

You can create vector text within your model with ease.
Creating vector text in ArtCAM 2D is similar to typing
text in most word processing packages.
To create vector text:
1. Click on the Create Vector Text button
in the Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Text Tool page.
2. Select the font that you want to type in from the
Font list box.
The Font list box displays all the fonts that are
available; both installed TrueType fonts as well
as resident printer fonts.
A preview of the selected font appears in the
Sample area of the Text Tool page.

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 3. Select the appropriate language script option for
your computer from the Script list box. For
example, Western.
The Script list box displays the available
language scripts for the font you have selected.
4. Type an appropriate size for the vector text in
the Size box.
You can select the unit of measurement that you
want to use from the list box to the right.
5. Type the angle at which you want the vector
text to be written in the Angle box.
6. Type the amount of space you want between
each character in the Spacing box.
7. Move the cursor over to the 2D View
window and click where you want to create the
vector text in your model.
A text box appears in the 2D View window and
the mouse cursor changes to a cross .
8. Type the vector text you want to create.
It is useful to remember the following
keystrokes when typing in vector text:

• Press the Enter key on your keyboard

to start a new line of vector text.

• Press the Backspace key on your

keyboard to delete vector text.
9. Make sure that the vector text is formatted in
the way that you want.
For details, see “Formatting Vector Text” on
page 210.
10. Click on the Done button or press both

the Ctrl and Enter keys on your

keyboard at the same time to create the vector
text in your model and return to the
Assistant’s Home page.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 205

 The vector text is magenta, indicating that the
closed vector objects that make up the text are
grouped. A bounding box with resizing handles
also surrounds it:

You can scale a block of vector text if you move the

cursor over any of the resizing handles adjoined to the
bounding box, then click and drag in the appropriate
direction.
You can move a block of vector text if you move the
cursor over it, then click and drag it into the appropriate
position.

Selecting Vector Text

You can select vector text both during and after you have
created it.
You can select vector text when the Text Tool page is
displayed in the Assistant window if you:
• Click and drag over the character or block of
vector text that you want to select.

• Hold the Shift key on your keyboard, and

then use the arrow keys to control your
selection.
The selected vector text is white and is
highlighted in black:

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 Note: If you select a block of vector text containing
more than one style of font and/or formatting, the
relevant list box appears as blank.

When you have created the vector text, you can select it
using the method described in “Selecting Vectors” on
page 151.

Editing Vector Text

Text editing refers to making changes in vector text, such
as adding and deleting, or copying and pasting individual
characters or blocks of vector text.
You can cut, copy and paste a character or block of
vector text both during and after its creation using the
editing buttons in the Settings area of the Text Tool
page:
• Click on the Cut button to remove the
selected vector text and place it on the
clipboard.
• Click on the Copy button to create a
duplicate of the selected vector text and
place it on the clipboard.
• Click on the Paste button to place an
identical copy of the copied vector text,
overlapping the original.
Note: If you copy a block of vector text that contains
multiple fonts, when you use the Paste button the
block is written in the currently selected font only.

You can cut, copy and/or paste a block of vector text after
it has been created using the editing buttons in the
Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s Home page.
For details, see “Copying and Pasting Vector Objects” on
page 189.
You can add or delete characters during their creation
using your keyboard:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 207

 • Use the character keys on your keyboard to
add characters to a block of vector text.

• Press the Backspace key on your

keyboard to delete vector text.
You can delete a selected block of vector text after it has
been created if you:

• Press the Delete key on your keyboard.

Editing in Text Creation Mode

Text creation mode refers to when the Text Tool page is
displayed in the Assistant window.
To edit a character or block of vector text during text
creation mode:
1. Select the vector text that you want to edit.
For details, see “Selecting Vector Text” on page
206.
2. Click on the appropriate editing button in the
Settings area of the Text Tool page, or use
the appropriate keys on your keyboard.
For details, see “Editing Vector Text” on page
207.

Editing Created Vector Text

Vector text is created when you close the Text Tool
page and return to the Assistant’s Home page.
For details, see “Creating Vector Text” on page 204.
To edit a character or block of vector text after you have
created it:
1. Select the block of vector text that you want to
edit.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.

Note: You can now use the Delete key on your

keyboard if you want to delete the selected block of
vector text.

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 2. Right-click on the block of vector text to
display the Text Editing menu:

3. Click on the Edit Text Block option to display

the Text Tool page in the Assistant window.
Note: You can display the Text Tool page in the
Assistant window by selecting a block of vector text,
and pressing the E key on your keyboard.

4. Select the vector text that you want to edit.

For details, see “Selecting Vector Text” on page
206.
Note: A selected block of vector text that has been
transformed, e.g. sheared, appears as a default block
whilst the Text Tool page is displayed. After closing the
page, the transform is restored and is also applied to the
changes you have made to the block of vector text.

5. Click on the appropriate editing button in the

Settings area of the Text Tool page or press
the appropriate keys on your keyboard.
For details, see “Editing Vector Text” on page
207.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 209

 6. Click on the Done button to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.

Formatting Vector Text

Text formatting refers to setting up the way a character or
block of vector text looks by using commands to set the
fonts, bold or italic type, indents and alignments.
You can format a character or block of vector text both
during and after its creation using the formatting buttons
in the Settings area of the Text Tool page and the
boxes on the page:
You can use the formatting buttons as follows:
• Click on the Bold button to make the
vector text bold.
If you have selected vector text that is already
bold, click on the Bold button to remove the
bold formatting.
• Click on the Italic button to make the
vector text italic.
If you have selected vector text that is already
italic, click on the Italic button to remove the
italic formatting.
• Click on the Align Left button to align the
selected vector text to the left of the text box
with a ragged right edge.
This button only affects a block of vector text
containing more than one line of text.
• Click on the Align Right button to align
the selected vector text to the right of the text
box with a ragged left edge.
This button only affects a block of vector text
containing more than one line of text.
• Click on the Centred button to place the
selected vector text in the centre of the text box.
This button only affects a block of vector text
containing more than one line of text.

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 • Click on the Decrease Indent button to
indent the selected vector text to the left by one
character width of the font in use.
• Click on the Increase Indent button to
indent the selected vector text to the right by
one character width of the font in use.
To change the font you are using:
• Click on the Font list box, and then click on the
font that you want to use.
To change the size of the font you are using:
• Type the appropriate value in the Size box.
You can also change the unit of measurement
that you want to use by clicking on the
appropriate option from the list box to the right.
To change the script you are using:
• Click on the Script list box, and then click on
the script that you want to use.
To adjust the angle of a character or block of vector text:
• Type the angle you want to position the vector
text at in the Angle box.
For example, setting the angle at 45° places
each character in a block of vector text as
follows:

To adjust the amount of white space on either side of a

character in a block of vector text:
• Type the distance you want to place between
each character in the Character box.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 211

 For example, setting the Character kerning to
10 mm separates each character in a block of
vector text as follows:

To adjust amount of white space on either side of a line in

a block of vector text:
• Type the distance you want to place between
each line in the Line box.
For example, setting the Line kerning to 10 mm
separates each line in a block of vector text as
follows:

Formatting in Text Creation Mode

Text creation mode refers to when the Text Tool page is
displayed in the Assistant window.
When you are in text creation mode you can format
vector text before and after you type using your
keyboard.
To format a character before you type it:
1. Click on the appropriate formatting button in
the Settings area of the Text Tool page or
type a value in the relevant box, and then type.

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 To format a character or block of vector text after you
have typed it:
1. Select the vector text that you want to format.
For details, see “Selecting Vector Text” on page
206.
2. Click on the appropriate formatting button in
the Settings area of the Text Tool page or
type a value in the relevant box, and then type.

Formatting Created Vector Text

Vector text is created when you close the Text Tool
page and return to the Assistant’s Home page.
To format a character or block of vector text after you
have created it:
1. Select the block of vector text that you want to
format.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Right-click on the block of vector text to
display the Text Editing menu:

3. Click on the Edit Text Block option to display

the Text Tool page in the Assistant window.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 213

 Note: You can display the Text Tool page in the
Assistant window by selecting a block of vector text,
and pressing the E key on your keyboard.

4. Select the character or block of vector text that

you want to format.
For details, see “Selecting Vector Text” on page
206.
Note: A selected block of vector text that has been
transformed, e.g. sheared, appears as a default block
whilst the Text Tool page is displayed. After closing the
page, the transform is restored and is also applied to the
changes you have made to the block of vector text.

5. Click on the appropriate formatting button in

the Settings area of the Text Tool page or
adjust the settings in the relevant box.
6. Click on the Done button to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.

Wrapping Text round a Curve

ArtCAM 2D allows you to place vector text on or around
any open or closed curved vector object automatically,
providing for improved kerning (the amount of white
space on either side of a character).
Before you can wrap a block of vector text around a
curve, you must create both a curved vector shape and
some vector text.
To wrap vector text around a curved vector object in a
model:
1. Click on the curved vector object around which
you want to wrap a block of vector text.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.

2. Hold the Shift key on your keyboard and

then click on the block of vector text.

214 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 Both the curved vector object and block of
vector text turn magenta, surrounded by a
bounding box.
3. Click on the Wrap Text Round a Curve
button in the Vector Editing area of the
Assistant’s Home page to display the Text
on a Curve page.
You can now position the active block of vector text as
follows:
• Move the cursor over the block of vector text,
then click and drag it along the curved vector
object.
• Use the Text Settings on the Text on a
Curve page.
For details, see “Using the Text Settings” on
page 215.

Using the Text Settings

You can select the text position, alignment and spacing
using the options in the Text Settings area of the Text
on a Curve page.

Text Position
You can position a block of vector text on a curved vector
object in a number of ways using the six Text Position
radio buttons on the Text on a Curve page:
• Above Line - Click on this radio button to
position the block of vector text above the
curved vector object:

• Base Line - Click on this radio button to

position the block of vector text directly on the
curved vector object:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 215

 • Centre On Ascent - Click on this radio
button to position the block of vector text
about the ascending part of the characters in the
block:

• Centre On Strikeout - Click on this radio

button to position the block of vector text so
that the curved vector object is used as a line, or
strikeout, which runs through the middle of the
vector text:

• Below Line - Click on this radio button to

position the block of vector text below the
curved vector object:

• Specify - Click on this radio button to

position the block of vector text about the

216 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 curved vector object, according to the positive
or negative value you type in the box.
Click on the Apply button to view the
specified position.
For example, typing a value of -50 mm in the
box produces the following result:

You can also reverse the direction of the curved vector

object if you turn on the Text on other side option .
If you turn this option on, the block of vector text is
written as shown in the example below:
Text on other side Off… Text on other side On…

Text Alignment
You can align a block of vector text on a curved vector
object using either of the Text Alignment radio buttons
on the Text on a Curve page:
• Vertical - Click on this radio button to align
all letters in the block of vector text vertical to
the curved vector object:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 217

 • Align To Curve - The default setting, click on
this radio button to align all letters in the
block of vector text perpendicular to the curved
vector object:

Text Spacing
You can change the distance between characters within a
block of vector text by using the Text Spacing slider:

• Move the cursor over the slider, then click and

drag to either increase or reduce the spacing.
Drag to the right if you want to increase the
spacing. Drag to the left if you want to reduce
it.
To preview your spacing adjustments:
• Click on the Apply button at the
bottom of the page.
When you are satisfied with the spacing between the
individual characters in the block of vector text:
• Click on the OK button at the bottom of
the page.

Editing Style
You can adjust the position of individual characters or
specific words in a block of vector text in different ways
by selecting from the range of Editing Style options:

218 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 • Whole Sentence - Click on the radio button
, move the cursor over the block of vector
text, then click and drag the entire sentence into
the desired position on the curved vector object.
• Single Words - Click on the radio button ,
move the cursor over a specific word in the
block of vector text, then click and drag the
word into the desired position on the curved
vector object.
Note: Instead of selecting Single Words from the
Editing Style menu, you can press and hold the Ctrl
key on your keyboard, and then click and drag a
specific word into place on the curved vector object.

• Single Letters - Click on the radio button ,

move the cursor over a specific character in the
block of vector text, then click and drag the
character into the desired position on the curved
vector object.
Note: Instead of selecting Single Letters from the
Editing Style menu, you can press and hold the Alt key
on your keyboard, and then click and drag a
specific character into place on the curved vector object.

Measuring Vector Objects

You can calculate the size, position and angle of any
vector object in an open model as follows:
1. Click on the Measure Tool button in the
Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Measure page.
2. Click on the point in the model that you want to
measure from.
This point is known as the Anchor Point.
3. Drag the mouse to the point you want to
measure to and click.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 219

 Both the Distance and Angle between the
current and anchor points are calculated and
displayed on the Measure page.
ArtCAM 2D calculates the measurement details in real
time. This means that you can view the calculated values
on the Measure page as you are dragging the cursor into
position.
By default, the cursor snaps to points (nodes) in vector
objects. This is indicated by the cursor changing to a
cursor when over points (nodes).

To disable snapping, press the Shift key whilst

dragging the cursor into position.

Transforming Vector Objects

ArtCAM 2D provides a number of options that allow you
to transform a selected vector object in different ways.
You can:
• Change the size of a vector object by scaling it.
Move a vector object to a specific position.
• Rotate a vector object.
• Shear a vector object.
All of these transform options are available when the
Transform Vector(s) page is displayed in the
Assistant window.
To display the Transform Vector(s) page in the
Assistant window:
1. Select the vector object that you want to
transform.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Click on the Transform Vector(s) button
to display the Transform Vector(s) page in
the Assistant window.

220 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 Note: You can also click on a vector object and press
the T key on your keyboard to display the
Transform Vector(s) page in the Assistant window.

Alternatively, you can display the Transform

Vector(s) page in the Assistant window if you:
1. Select the vector object that you want to
transform.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Right-click on the vector object to display the
Vector Editing menu:

3. Click on the Transform Vectors option.

Finally, you can also display the Transform Vector(s)
page in the Assistant window if you:
1. Select the vector object that you want to
transform.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Click on the Vectors option in the Main menu
bar to display the Vectors menu, then click on
the Transform… option:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 221

 The Transform Vector(s) page is divided into four
areas:
• Size - This option allows you to change the
size of the selected vector object.
For details, see “Scaling Vectors” on page 222.
• Position and Origin - This option allows you
to move a selected vector object to a specific
point in a model.
For details, see “Moving Vectors” on page 224.
• Rotate - This option enables you to spin a
selected vector object around the model’s X and
Y-axes.
For details, see “Rotating Vectors” on page 225.
• Shear - This option enables you to shear a
selected vector object.
For details, see “Shearing Vectors” on page
226.

Scaling Vectors
You can change the size of a vector object in two ways
using the Size area of the Transform Vector(s) page:
• Using specific measurements.
• Using the slider.
To change the size of a vector object using specific
measurements:

222 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 1. Select the vector object that you want to change
the size of.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Click on the Transform Vector(s) button
to display the Transform Vector(s) page in
the Assistant window.
The values displayed beneath the slider in the
Size area of the Transform Vector(s) page
indicate the current height and width of the
selected vector object.
3. Type a value in the New Width box.
4. Type a value in the New Height box.
A preview image of the new size of the selected
vector object appears in the 2D View window.
5. Click on the Apply button at the
bottom of the page to resize the selected vector
object.
6. Click on the OK button to return to the
Assistant’s Home page.
To change the size of a vector object using the slider:
1. Select the vector object that you want to change
the size of.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Click on the Transform Vector(s) button
to display the Transform Vector(s) page in
the Assistant window.
The values shown beneath the slider show the
current height and width of the selected vector
object.
3. Click on the Link Width and Height option
to preserve the ratio between the width and
height of the selected vector object.
4. Click and drag the slider in the appropriate
direction.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 223

 • Drag to the right if you want to increase the
size of the selected vector object.
• Drag to the left if you want to reduce the
size of the selected vector object.
Note: If you drag the slider without turning the Link
Width and Height option on , only the value in the
New Width box changes.

A preview image of the new size of the selected

vector object appears in the 2D View window.
5. Click on the Apply button at the
bottom of the page to confirm the new size of
the selected vector object.
6. Click on the OK button to return to the
Assistant’s Home page.

Moving Vectors
You can change the position of a vector object relative to
a defined origin using the Position and Origin area of
the Transform Vector(s) page:
To adjust the position of a vector object:
1. Select the vector object that you want to change
the position of.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Click on the Transform Vector(s) button
to display the Transform Vector(s) page in
the Assistant window.
The values in the X and Y boxes show the
current position of the selected vector object.
3. Click on the appropriate radio button to
define the origin about which you want to move
the selected vector object.
The co-ordinates of the origin you select appear
in the X and Y boxes.

224 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 4. Type the co-ordinate you want to move the X-
origin of the selected vector object to in the X
box.
5. Type the co-ordinate you want to move the Y-
origin of the selected vector object to in the Y
box.
6. Click on the Apply button at the
bottom of the page to reposition the selected
vector object.
7. Click on the OK button to return to the
Assistant’s Home page.

Rotating Vectors
You can rotate a vector object in two ways using the
Rotate area of the Transform Vector(s) page:
• Using a specific angle.
• Using the slider.
To rotate a vector object using a specific angle:
1. Select the vector object that you want to rotate.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Click on the Transform Vector(s) button
to display the Transform Vector(s) page in
the Assistant window.
3. Type the angle by which you want to rotate the
selected vector object in the Rotate box:
• A positive value rotates the selected vector
object clockwise.
• A negative value rotates the selected vector
object anti-clockwise.
4. Click on the Apply button to confirm
the new angle of the selected vector object.
5. Click on the OK button to return to the
Assistant’s Home page.
To rotate a vector object using the slider:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 225

 1. Select the vector object that you want to rotate.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Click on the Transform Vector(s) button
to display the Transform Vector(s) page in
the Assistant window.
3. Click and drag the slider in the appropriate
direction:
• Drag to the right if you want to rotate the
selected vector object clockwise.
• Drag to the left if you want to rotate the
selected vector object anti-clockwise.
A preview image appears in the 2D View
window representing the new angle of the
selected vector object.
4. Click on the Apply button at the
bottom of the page to confirm the new angle of
the selected vector object.
5. Click on the OK button to return to the
Assistant’s Home page.

Shearing Vectors
Shearing can be visualised by thinking of an image
superimposed onto a flexible rubber sheet. If you hold the
sides of the sheet and move them up and down in
opposite directions, the image undergoes a spatial
stretching known as shearing:
Before… After Shearing in the X-axis…

226 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 You can shear a vector object in two ways using the
Rotate area of the Transform Vector(s) page:
• Using specific angles.
• Using the sliders.
To shear a vector object using specific angles:
1. Select the vector object that you want to shear.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Click on the Transform Vector(s) button
to display the Transform Vector(s) page in
the Assistant window.
3. Type the angle by which you want to shear the
selected vector object vertically in the Shear X
box.
A preview image appears in the 2D View
window representing the new shape of the
selected vector object.
4. Type the angle by which you want to shear the
selected vector object horizontally in the Shear
Y box.
A preview image appears in the 2D View
window representing the new shape of the
selected vector object.
5. Click on the Apply button to confirm
the new shape of the selected vector object.
6. Click on the OK button to return to the
Assistant’s Home page.
To shear a vector object using the sliders:
1. Select the vector object that you want to shear.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Click on the Transform Vector(s) button
to display the Transform Vector(s) page in
the Assistant window.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 227

 3. Click and drag the Shear X slider in the
appropriate direction to shear the vector object
vertically.
4. Click and drag the Shear Y slider in the
appropriate direction to shear the vector object
horizontally.
5. Click on the Apply button at the
bottom of the page to confirm the new shape of
the selected vector object.
6. Click on the OK button to return to the
Assistant’s Home page.

Manipulating Vector Objects

There is a range of tools in both the Position Size
Align Vectors and Group Merge Join Vectors areas
of the Assistant’s Home page designed to assist you in
manipulating vector objects.

Mirroring Vectors
You can reverse the direction of a vector object from its
original position using the mirroring button in the
Position Size Align Vectors area of the Assistant’s
Home page.
To mirror a selection of vector objects:
1. Select the vector object(s) that you want to
mirror.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Click on the Mirror Vectors button in the
Position Size Align Vectors area of the
Assistant’s Home page to display the Mirror
Vectors page.
3. Click on the Copy the Original Vectors
option if you want to produce the mirrored
vector object(s) and retain the original position
of the selected vector object(s).

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 Note: If you hold the Ctrl key on your keyboard
before you click on a Mirror Types option, you also
produce a mirrored vector object and retain the original
position of the selected vector object.

4. Click on an appropriate option listed in the

Mirror Types area of the Mirror Vectors
page to mirror the selected vector(s).
You can select from six mirroring options listed
in the Mirror Types area of the Mirror
Vectors page.
For details, see “Using the Mirroring Options”
on page 230.
5. Click on the Close button to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.
You can also display the Mirror Vectors page in the
Assistant window if you:
1. Select the vector object(s) that you want to
mirror.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Click on the Vectors option in the Main menu
bar to display the Vectors menu, then on the
Mirror option:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 229

 Using the Mirroring Options
You can use three options in the Mirror Types area of
the Mirror Vectors page to mirror a vector object in the
Horizontal plane.
These are:
• Left - This option mirrors the selected vector
objects in the horizontal plane about a point on
the left edge of the selected vector objects:

• Centre - This option mirrors the selected

vector objects in the horizontal plane about a
point in the centre of the selected vector objects:

• Right - This option mirrors all your selected

vector objects in the horizontal plane about a
point on the right edge of the selected vector
objects:

You can use three options in the Mirror Types area of

the Mirror Vectors page to mirror a vector object in the
Vertical plane.
These are:
• Top - This option mirrors all your selected
vector objects in the horizontal plane about a
point on the top edge of the selected vector
objects:

230 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 • Centre - This option mirrors the selected
vector objects in the vertical plane about a point
in the centre of the selected vector objects:

• Bottom - This option mirrors the selected

vector objects in the horizontal plane about a
point on the bottom edge of the selected vector
objects:

You can also mirror a selected vector object about an

open vector object, such as a polyline, using the About
Line option on the Mirror Vectors page:

To mirror a vector object about a polyline:

1. Select the polyline about which you want to
mirror a vector object.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.

2. Hold the Shift key on your keyboard, and

then click on the vector object(s) that you want
to mirror.
3. Click on the Mirror Vectors button in the
Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Mirror Vectors
page.
4. Click on the About Line option on the Mirror
Vectors page.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 231

 5. Click on the Close button to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.

Aligning Vectors
You can position two or more vector objects relative to
one another in different ways using the align buttons in
the Position Size Align Vectors area of the
Assistant’s Home page.
When you select the vector objects that you want to
position relative to one another, it is important to
remember that all of the vector objects you select are to
be aligned to the vector object selected last. This is
referred to as the base vector object.
To align two or more vector objects:
1. Select two or more vector objects that you want
to position relative to one another.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
A bounding box surrounds all of the selected
vector objects.
2. Click on the appropriate align button in the
Position Size Align Vectors area of the
Assistant’s Home page to align all of the
selected vector objects relative to the base
vector object:
• Click on the Align Left button to align
the left edge of all other vector objects that
you have selected to the left edge of the base
vector object.
• Click on the Align Right button to
align the right edge of all other vector
objects that you have selected to the right
edge of the base vector object.
• Click on the Align Top button to align
the top edge of all other vector objects that
you have selected to the top edge of the base
vector object.

232 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 • Click on the Align Bottom button to
align the bottom edge of all other vector
objects that you have selected to the bottom
edge of the base vector object.
You can also use the Align Vectors options in the
Vectors menu within the Main menu bar to achieve the
same results as the align buttons in the Position Size
Align area of the Assistant’s Home page:
1. Select two or more vector objects that you want
to position relative to one another.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
A bounding box surrounds all of the selected
vector objects.
2. Click on the Vectors option in the Main menu
bar to display the Vectors menu, then move
the cursor over the Align Vectors option to
display the Align Vectors menu:

3. Click on the option you want to use to align all

of the selected vector objects relative to the base
vector object:
• Click on the Left option to align the left
edge of all other vector objects that you have
selected to the left edge of the base vector
object.
• Click on the Right option to align the right
edge of all other vector objects that you have

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 233

 selected to the right edge of the base vector
object.
• Click on the Top option to align the top
edge of all other vector objects that you have
selected to the top edge of the base vector
object.
• Click on the Bottom option to align the
bottom edge of all other vector objects that
you have selected to the bottom edge of the
base vector object.

Centring Vectors
You can centre one or more vector objects inside of
another in different ways using the centring buttons in the
Position Size Align Vectors area of the Assistant’s
Home page.
When selecting the vector objects that you want to centre
inside of another, it is important to remember that all of
the vector objects you select are to be centred inside of
the vector object selected last. This is referred to as the
base vector object.
To centre one or more vector objects inside of another:
1. Select two or more vector objects that you want
to position relative to one another.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
A bounding box surrounds all of the selected
vector objects.
2. Click the appropriate button in the Position
Size Align Vectors area of the Assistant’s
Home page to centre all of the selected vector
objects inside of the base vector object:
• Click the Centre Vertically button to
align the centre of all other vector objects
that you have selected to the centre in the X-
axis of the base vector object.
• Click the Centre Horizontally button
to align the centre of all other vector objects

234 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 that you have selected to the centre in the Y-
axis of the base vector object.
• Click the Centre Vector button to
align the centre of all other vector objects
that you have selected to the centre of the
base vector object.
There is one additional centring button in the Position
Size Align area of the Assistant’s Home page,
although it does not, unlike the other centring buttons,
affect one vector object relative to another:
• Click the Centre In Page button to
align the centre of the vector objects that you
have selected to the centre of the model.
You can also use the Align Vectors options in the
Vectors menu within the Main menu bar to achieve the
same results as using the centring buttons in the
Position Size Align area of the Assistant’s Home
page:
1. Select two or more vector objects that you want
to position relative to one another.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
A bounding box surrounds all of the selected
vector objects.
2. Click on the Vectors option in the Main menu
bar to display the Vectors menu, then move
the cursor over the Align Vectors option to
display the Align Vectors menu:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 235

 3. Click on the option you want to use to align all
of the selected vector objects relative to the base
vector object:
• Click on the Horizontal Centre option to
align the centre of all other vector objects
that you have selected to the centre in the X-
axis of the base vector object.
• Click on the Vertical Centre option to
align the centre of all other vector objects
that you have selected to the centre in the Y-
axis of the base vector object.
• Click on the Centre option to align the
centre of all other vector objects that you
have selected to the centre of the base vector
object.
• Click on the Centre In Page option to
align the centre of all the vector objects that
you have selected to the centre of the model.

Nesting Vectors
If you have an area of material that cannot contain a
block of vector text as it is normally written, or a group
of vector objects, you need not treat it as waste material.
Rather than creating the space to fit the vector text or
vector objects in the conventional sense, you can
manipulate them so as to fit it into space already
available.

236 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 You can be as economical as possible with your material
by using the Nest Selected Vectors Within Area
button in the Position Size Align Vectors area of
the Assistant’s Home page.
For example, consider the vector text Nesting Vectors
before and after the nesting process:
Before… After…

You must first define the area in which you want to nest
vector objects.
You can use a tool from the Vector Editing area of the
Assistant’s Home page to define the area of material.
For example, if you have an odd shape of material in
which you want to nest vector text, use the Create
Polyline tool to follow the outline of the area of material
available. For details, see “Creating a Polyline” on page
148.
For information on using any of the other creation tools
in the Vector Editing area of the Assistant’s Home
page, see “Creating Simple Closed Shapes” on page 167.
The vector object used to define the area of material must
be a closed vector object. For details, see “Selecting
Vectors” on page 151.
To nest vector objects:
1. Select the vector object in which you want to
nest the other vector objects.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.

2. Hold the Shift key on your keyboard,

then click on the vector objects you want to nest
within the vector object selected in Step 1.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 237

 The selected vector objects turn magenta.
3. Click on the Nest Selected Vectors Within
Area button in the Position Size Align
Vectors area of the Assistant’s Home page.
4. Type the diameter of the cutting tool you are
using to machine the nested vector objects in
the Tool Diameter (D) box.
5. Type the value of the amount of extra material
that you want to surround each of the nested
vector objects in the Toolpath Clearance (C)
box.
6. If you want to allow vector objects to be
rotated, click on the Allow Part Rotation
option to turn it on .
This and the remaining options allow ArtCAM
2D flexibility when fitting the vector objects
into the available space.
If you have turned the Allow Part Rotation
option on :
• Type a value in the Step Angle (A) box.
The Step Angle (A) is the increment by
which the vector objects are rotated during
the nesting process.
For example, if the Step Angle (A) is 90°,
ArtCAM 2D attempts to nest the vector objects,
rotating them by 0°, 90°, 180° and 270°.
7. If you want to allow vector objects to be
mirrored during the nesting process, click on the
Allow Mirrored Parts option to turn it on .
8. If you want to allow vector objects to be nested
within other vector objects that have a central
cavity, click on the Allow Parts In Parts
option to turn it on .
In the example below, the letter A is nested
within the central cavity of the letter O:

238 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 Warning: Avoid using the Allow Parts In Parts
option unless absolutely necessary as this makes for
complex and prolonged machining.

9. Click on the Nest From list box, then click on

one of the following options:
• Bottom Left – To nest the vector objects
about the bottom-left corner of the defined
area.
• Bottom Right – To nest the vector objects
about the bottom-right corner of the defined
area.
• Top Left – To nest the vector objects about
the top-left corner of the defined area.
• Top Right – To nest the vector objects
about the top-right corner of the defined
area.
10. Type a value in the Curve Tolerance box to
specify how closely you want the cutter to
follow the shape of the vector objects to be
nested.
11. If you want to create a vector object in the
shape of the leftover material after machining
the nested vector objects, click on the Create
Leftover Material Vector option to turn it on
.
12. Click on the Nest button to begin the
nesting process.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 239

 The Nesting progress bar appears beneath the
2D View window indicating the progress
ArtCAM 2D is making in calculating the final
position of the nested vector objects:

The nesting calculation time depends on the

Part Rotation options you have selected: the
fewer the options you have turned on, the faster
the nesting process.
You can click on the Cancel button at any
time to stop the Nesting process.
13. Click on the Close button to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.

Merging Vectors
You can merge two or more shapes of vector objects in
order to create a new shape of vector object using the
merging buttons in the Group Merge Join Vectors
area of the Assistant’s Home page.
Warning: You can only merge two or more vector
objects if they are ungrouped and overlapping.

To merge two or more ungrouped vector objects:

1. Select the first vector object that you want to
merge.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.

2. Hold the Shift key on your keyboard, and

then click on each additional vector object that
you want to merge with the first.
Warning: Unless the vector objects that you want to
merge are ungrouped and overlap, they cannot be
merged.

The vector objects selected for merging turn

magenta.

240 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 3. Click on an appropriate merging button in the
Group Merge Join Vectors area of the
Assistant’s Home page:

Warning: The Weld Vectors button is the only

merging button in the Group Merge Join Vectors
area of the Assistant’s Home page that you can use to
merge more than two overlapping vector objects.

• Click on the Weld Vectors button to

take two or more vector objects and create a
new vector object that is the outline of them
when fused together:
Before… After…

• Click on the Intersect Vectors button

to take two vector objects and create a new
vector object that is the shape of the area
where they overlap:
Before… After…

• Click on the Subtract Vectors button

to produce a vector object that is the shape
of the area remaining when the vector object

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 241

 selected second is subtracted from that
which was selected first:
Before… After…

• Click on the Trim Vectors button to

combine two selected vector objects in such
a way that all that remains are the areas of
the vector objects which are not overlapping:
Before… After…

You can also use the Merge Vectors options in the

Vectors menu within the Main menu bar to achieve the
same results as the merging buttons in the Position Size
Align area of the Assistant’s Home page:
1. Select the first vector object that you want to
merge.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
Warning: Unless the
vector objects 2. Hold the Shift key on your keyboard, and
overlap, they cannot then click on each additional vector object that
be merged. you want to merge with the first.

242 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 The vector objects selected for merging turn
magenta.
3. Click on the Vectors option in the Main menu
bar to display the Vectors menu, then move
the cursor over the Merge Vectors option to
display the Merge Vectors menu:

4. Click on the option you want to use to merge

the selected vector objects:
Warning: The Weld option in the Merge Vectors
menu is the only option you can use to merge more than
two overlapping vector objects.

• Click on the Weld option to take two or

more vector objects and create a new vector
object that is the outline of them when fused
together.
• Click on the Intersect option to take two
vector objects and create a new vector object
that is the shape of the area where they
overlap.
• Click on the Subtract option to produce a
vector object that is the shape of the area
remaining when the vector object selected
second is subtracted from that which was
selected first.
• Click on the Trim option to combine two
selected vector objects in such a way that all

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 243

 that remains are the areas of the vector
objects which are not overlapping.

Joining Vectors
Note: The vector You can join two vector objects to create one of three
objects must be open types of new shape using the joining buttons in the
and ungrouped. Group Merge Join Vectors area of the Assistant’s
Home page.
To join two vector objects:
1. Select the first vector object that you want to
join with another.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.

2. Hold the Shift key on your keyboard, and

then click on the vector object that you want to
join with the first.
Both vector objects selected for joining turn
magenta.
3. Click on the appropriate joining button in the
Group Merge Join Vectors area of the
Assistant’s Home page:
• Click on the Join Vectors With A Line
button to link the first and last points
(nodes) of the two vector objects with a
linear span:
Before… After…

• Click on the Join Vectors With A Curve

button to link the first and last points
(nodes) of the two vector objects with a
bezier curve span:

244 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 Before… After…

• Click on the Join Vectors By Moving

Ends button to link the first and last
points (nodes) of the two vector objects by
moving each point (node) to a central
position:
Before… After…

You can also use the Join Vectors options in the

Vectors menu within the Main menu bar to achieve the
same results as the joining buttons in the Position Size
Align area of the Assistant’s Home page:
1. Select the first vector object that you want to
join with another.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.

2. Hold the Shift key on your keyboard, and

then click on the vector object that you want to
join with the first.
The vector objects selected for merging turn
magenta.
3. Click on the Vectors option in the Main menu
bar to display the Vectors menu, then move
the cursor over the Join Vectors option to
display the Join Vectors menu:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 245

 4. Click on the option you want to use to join the
selected vector objects:
• Click on the With a smooth curve option
to link the first and last points (nodes) of the
two vector objects with a bezier curve span.
• Click on the With a line option to link the
first and last points (nodes) of the two vector
objects with a linear span.
• Click on the Move end Points option to
link the first and last points (nodes) of the
two vector objects by moving each point
(node) to a central position.

Closing Vectors
Note: The vector You can close an open vector object to create one of
objects must be three types of closed vector object using the closing
ungrouped. buttons in the Group Merge Join Vectors area of the
Assistant’s Home page.
To close an open vector object:
1. Select the open vector object that you want to
close.
The selected vector object is black.
2. Click on one of the three closing buttons in the
Group Merge Join Vectors area of the
Assistant’s Home page:

246 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 • Click on the Close Vector With A Line
button to join the first and last point
(node) of an open vector object with a linear
span, as shown below:
Before… After…

• Click on the Close Vector With A Curve

button to join the first and last point
(node) of an open vector object with a bezier
curve span, as shown below:
Before… After…

• Click on the Close Vector – Move End

Points button to join the last point
(node) of an open vector object to the first,
as indicated below:
Before After…

You can also use the Close Vectors options in the

Vectors menu within the Main menu bar to achieve the
same results as the closing buttons in the Position Size
Align area of the Assistant’s Home page:
1. Select the vector object that you want to close.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 247

 For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Click on the Vectors option in the Main menu
bar to display the Vectors menu, then move
the cursor over the Close Vectors option to
display the Close Vectors menu:

3. Click on the option you want to use to close the

selected vector object:
• Click on the With a smooth curve option
to join the first and last points (nodes) an
open vector object with a bezier curve span.
• Click on the With a line option to join the
first and last points (nodes) of an open
vector object with a linear span.
• Click on the Move end Point option to
join the last point (node) of an open vector
object to the first.

Grouping Vector Objects

Grouping combines all of the individual spans, points
(nodes) and adjoining control points that make up a
vector object as a single entity.
You can group an individual vector object or a selection
of them. This process allows you to simultaneously
machine or engrave each of the vector objects that you
define as a group in the same way.

248 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page 151.
Grouping allows you to machine or engrave an open
vector object along with an individual or group of closed
vector objects when using certain toolpaths. These
toolpaths are Centreline Engraved Feature,
Engraving and Drill Holes.
For details, see “Using Toolpath Strategies” in the
Machining Models chapter.
Note: An ungrouped, open vector object is black when
selected. An ungrouped, closed vector object is green or
blue when selected.

To group an open vector object:

1. Select the vector object that you want to group.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
The selected vector object is black.
2. Click on the Group button in the Group
Merge Join Vectors area of the Assistant’s
Home page.
The vector object turns blue.
To group a closed vector object:
1. Select the vector object that you want to group.
The selected vector object is green or blue.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Click on the Group button in the Group
Merge Join Vectors area of the Assistant’s
Home page.
The vector object turns magenta.
If you create a polygon from a polyline in which a span
overlaps another and then group it, the polygon turns red
with white circular shapes marking the places where
the spans overlap:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 249

 Before… After…

For details, see “Closing a Polyline to Create a Polygon”

on page 150.
If you select a combination of open and closed vector
objects with the intention of grouping them, all of them
turn magenta. However, when they have been grouped,
the closed vector objects remain magenta while the open
vector objects turn blue.
You can also use either of these other methods to group
vector objects:
• Select the vector object(s) you want to group,
then select Group Vector(s) from the Vector
Editing menu:

250 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 • Select the vector object(s) you want to group,
click on the Vectors menu in the Main menu
bar and then select Group Vector(s):

Note: Click on the Ungroup button in the Group

Merge Join Vectors area of the Assistant’s Home
page to ungroup any selected vector object(s).

Resizing a Grouped Vector Object

Whether you have grouped either an open or closed
vector object, a bounding box with resizing handles
replaces points (nodes) and control points in the vector
object.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 251

 For example, you can see how by grouping the polyline
illustrated below, the points (nodes) and control points
are replaced by resizing handles:
Before…

After…

These resizing handles allow you to stretch the shape of

the vector object. To do so:
• Click and drag any of the resizing handles.
A dotted box within the bounding box indicates
the new size of the vector object.
On moving the cursor over each resizing handle, it
changes to a double-headed arrow indicating the direction
in which the shape can be stretched ( , or ).
In our example, by clicking and dragging the top-right
corner resizing handle inwards, the polyline can be
reduced to the size represented by the dotted box within
the bounding box:

252 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

Viewing the Properties of a Vector
Object
You can find out the number of points (nodes), linear,
bezier curve or arc spans within any ungrouped vector
object using the Vector Properties dialog box.
To view the properties of an ungrouped vector object:
1. Select an ungrouped vector object.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
2. Right-click to display the Vector Editing
menu.
3. Click on the Properties… option to display
the Vector Properties dialog box.
The General page of the Vector Properties
dialog box is displayed by default:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 253

 The Number of Spans area of the General
page shows the total number of spans in the
selected vector object. It also shows the number
of linear, bezier curve and arc spans that make
up the total number of spans.
For details, see “Editing Vector Spans” on page
154.
The Number of points area of the General
page shows the number of points (nodes) and
control points in the selected vector object. The
number of points (nodes) and control points are
not counted separately.
For details, see “Editing Vector Nodes” on page
162.
4. Click on the OK button to close the
Vector Properties dialog box.

Reversing a Vector Object’s Direction

of Geometry
You can reverse the current direction of geometry in any
closed vector object.

Ungrouped Vectors
If an ungrouped vector object is green when selected, the
direction of geometry is anti-clockwise.
If an ungrouped vector object is blue when selected, the
direction of geometry is clockwise.
To reverse the direction of geometry in an ungrouped,
closed vector object:
1. Select an ungrouped, closed vector object.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
The vector object is green or blue.
2. Right-click to display the Vector Editing
menu.
3. Click on the direction change option available:

254 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 • Make Clockwise – To change the
direction of geometry to clockwise.
The vector object turns blue.
• Make Anti-Clockwise – To change the
direction of geometry to anti-clockwise.
The vector object turns green.
You can also reverse the direction of geometry in an
ungrouped, closed vector object if you:
1. Select an ungrouped, closed vector object.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
The vector object is green or blue.
2. Right-click to display the Vector Editing
menu.
3. Click on the Properties option to display the
Vector Properties dialog box:

4. Click on the Other tab to display the

Other page:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 255

 5. Click on the appropriate Direction radio button
:
• Clockwise – To set the direction of
geometry as clockwise.
• Anti-clockwise – To set the direction of
geometry as anti-clockwise.
6. Click on the OK button to set the
direction of geometry in the selected vector
object and close the Vector Properties dialog
box.

Grouped Vectors
You can reverse the direction of geometry in a grouped,
closed vector object that you have created.
To reverse the direction of geometry in a grouped, closed
vector object:
1. Select a grouped, closed vector object.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” on page
151.
The selected vector object is magenta.
2. Right-click to display the Vector Editing
menu.
3. Click on the Reverse Vector(s) option to
reverse the direction of geometry.

256 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 When you reverse the direction of geometry in a grouped,
closed vector object, the vector object does not change
colour.
You can confirm the direction of geometry in a grouped,
closed vector object by ungrouping it after you click on
the Reverse Vector(s) option, and then regrouping it
again.
For details, see “Grouping Vector Objects” on page 248.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Working with Vectors • 257

258 • Working with Vectors ArtCAM 2D User Guide
Machining Models

Machining a Model
Warning: It is assumed that you already know how to
operate your machine tool, and that you are able to select
the appropriate tools and the necessary cutting conditions
for the job you are doing. If you are not confident about
any aspect of operating your machine tool, consult a
member of staff or your machine tool supplier.

In order to machine the model that you have created, it is

necessary to create a toolpath file. This file is made up of
a sequence of commands, which tells a CNC machine
tool the path a cutter is required to follow, in order to
produce your model.
You can create a toolpath strategy to machine either the
whole model, or selected vector objects that make up the
model. ArtCAM 2D provides a database containing a
broad selection of pre-defined tools that you can use
when creating your toolpath strategy. You can edit the
machining parameters of these tools and add new tools to
the database if necessary.
You can control the cut direction of the tool used for
machining by selecting either Conventional or Climb
Milling in almost all of the toolpath strategies available in
ArtCAM 2D.
In Conventional Milling, the tooth of the tool meets the
block of material at the bottom of the cut. The teeth of the
tool slide along until sufficient pressure builds up to
break through the material surface. This sliding action,

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 259

 under pressure, tends to abrade the edge of the tool,
which results in dulling. Also, the cutting action has a
tendency to lift the block of material, fixture and table
from their positions. A typical application is in cutting
alloys with surface scale.
Climb Milling… Conventional Milling…

In Climb Milling, the tooth of the tool meets the block of

material at the top of the cut, at the thickest part of the
chip. This provides instant engagement of the tool with
the block, providing a chip of definite thickness at the
start of the cut. Climb Milling does not cause the abrasive
action caused by Conventional Milling. It also permits the
gradual removal of the tool from the block, so that dwell
marks are largely eliminated. Climb Milling often
provides a better finish, permits greater tool feed rates
and prolongs the life of a tool. A typical application is in
finishing cuts on aluminium.
ArtCAM 2D allows you to create multiple toolpaths, each
of them relating to a selected area of your model. This
enables for a number of roughing passes to be made,
removing excess material prior to the finishing passes.
If your CNC machine has a tool changer, you are able to
generate separate toolpath files for each tool that you
want to use, or group all of the toolpaths relative to a
series of cutters into one machine-specific file.
If your CNC machine does not have a tool changer, you
must generate separate toolpath files for each tool that
you want to use.

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Using Toolpath Strategies
ArtCAM 2D provides a number of toolpath strategies that
you can use to machine your model. These are available
using the Toolpaths area of the Assistant’s Home
page.
You can use the following toolpath strategies:
• Profiling.
• 2D Area Clearance.
• V-Bit Carving Along a Centreline.
• 3D Bevelled Carving.
• Engraving.
• Drilling Holes.
• Machining Along a Vector.
• Inlay Machining.
You can also find buttons that assist you in managing and
modifying the toolpaths that you create:
• Toolpath Summary.
• Tool Groups Database.
• Add Bridging.
• Setting the Machining Order.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 261

 Profiling
The Profiling button in the Toolpaths area of the
Assistant’s Home page allows you to create a toolpath
that machines either inside or outside the boundary of a
selected vector object.
Using the Profiling page, you can:
• Control where your tool cuts into and retracts
from the block of material by adding lead in
and lead out moves.
• Control how your tool cuts into and retracts
from the block of material by adding ramping
moves.
• Control the cutting direction of the tool.
• Control whether the vector object is cut or
snapped out from the block of material by
defining the thickness of the final machine pass
and/or adding bridging.
A Profile toolpath strategy is ideal for cutting out letters
and shapes from a block of material.
To profile a vector object:
1. Select the vector object that you want to profile.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” in the
Working with Vectors chapter.
2. Click on the Profiling button in the
Toolpaths area of the Assistant’s Home
page.
3. In the Profile Side area of the page:
• Click on the Outside radio button to
instruct the tool to profile outside of the
selected vector object.
• Click on the Inside radio button to
instruct the tool to profile inside of the
selected vector object.

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 Profile Side – Outside… Profile Side – Inside…

4. Type the absolute Z value of the material

surface in the Start Depth box.
5. Type the absolute Z zero value for the bottom
of the cut in the Finish Depth box.
Note: If you are cutting the vector object out of the
block of material, the Finish Depth value is equal to
the Thickness (Z) value entered in the Setup Job
Dimensions dialog box. For details, see “Creating a
Model” in the Working with Models chapter.

6. If you want to add or remove extra material

around the vector object, you can type a value
in the Allowance box.
The value you enter sets the distance between
the boundary of the selected vector object and
the profiling tool. Type a positive value to add
material or a negative value to remove it.
7. Type a value in the Tolerance box to specify
how closely you want the cutter to follow the
shape of the vector object.
8. If you want to leave a thin 'web' of material
around the selected vector object, click on the
Final Pass Thickness option and type a
value in the adjacent box.
If turned on , the vector object is held more
securely in position during machining. You can
gently snap it from the block of material
afterwards.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 263

 9. If you want to change the height at which the
cutting tool makes rapid moves between
toolpath segments:
• Click on the arrow to display the Safe Z
box and the Home Position’s X, Y and Z
boxes.
• Type a value in the Safe Z box.
10. If you want to define the Home Position for
the machining tool, type values in the Home
Position’s X, Y and Z boxes.
Note: Click on the arrow to hide the Safe Z box and
the Home Position’s X, Y and Z boxes on the
Profiling page.

11. Click on the Select button in the

Profiling Tool area of the page to open the
Tool Groups Database:

12. Double-click on the tool you want to use. This

closes the Tool Groups Database and
displays the selected tool’s details in the
Profiling Tool area.
13. If you want to amend the machining parameters
for the selected tool, click on the arrow in the
Profiling Tool area.

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 For further information, see “Adjusting
Machining Parameters When Creating a
Toolpath” on page 334.
When you have finished, click on the arrow
to hide the machining parameters.
14. The cutting direction defaults to Climb Mill. If
you want to change this, click on the arrow
in the Cut Direction area of the Profiling
page, then click on one of the Cut Direction
radio buttons :
• Climb Mill - Climb Milling rotates the
cutter in the same direction as the feed
motion.
• Conventional – Conventional Milling
rotates the cutter in the opposite direction to
the feed motion.
For more details, see “Machining a Model” on
page 259.
15. If you want to add lead-in and lead-out moves
to the Profile toolpath, click on the Add Lead
In/Out Moves option to turn it on .
Warning: Although adding lead-in and lead-out moves
reduces abrasion on the cutting tool and dwell marks on
the material surface, doing so cannot guarantee gouge-
free results when machining all shapes of vector object.

• If you do not want to add a lead-out move,

click on the Do not Lead Out option .
• Type the distance from the Profile toolpath
that you want the tool to cut into and retract
from the block of material in the Distance
(D) box.
• Select how you want the tool to move using
the Add Lead In/Out Moves radio buttons
:
Linear – Click on the Linear option to
instruct the tool to lead into and out of the
block of material in a straight-line motion:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 265

 Circular Arc – Click on the Circular Arc
option to instruct the tool to lead into and
out of the block of material in an arc motion:

If you select the Circular Arc option, type

in the radius of the arc you want to use in the
Radius (R) box.
• Set the Automatic Positioning as
follows:
Turn Automatic Positioning on , to
position lead-in and lead-out moves at the
optimum point in the vector object. This is
usually within its longest linear span.
Turn Automatic Positioning off to
position lead-in and lead-out moves at the
Start Point of the vector object. If you

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 change the Start Point, this changes the
position of lead-in and lead-out moves.
For details on changing the Start Point, see
“Changing the Start Point” in the Working
with Vectors chapter.
16. If you want to add ramping moves to the
Profile toolpath, click on the Add Ramping
Moves option to turn it on .
Tip: Feeding the cutter into the material surface in a
straight plunge motion at full feed rate often causes
pivoting around the loaded tooth in the direction of
rotation. This, in turn, causes deflection. It is this
deflection that causes gouging and, consequently, tool
damage. Add Ramping Moves, also known as Zig-
Zag Plunge moves, to allow the cutting tool to enter the
block of material gradually, ensuring minimum tool
damage and the likelihood of gouge-free machining.

• Type the maximum angle of descent for each

zig and zag movement of the cutting tool in
the Max Ramp Angle (A) box.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 267

 • Type the maximum distance that you want
the cutting tool to zig-zag across the material
surface in the Max Ramp Length (L) box.
• Type the minimum distance that you want
the tool to zig-zag across the material
surface in the Min Ramp Length (Lmin)
box.
• If you want to define the height at which the
ramping moves start, click on the Ramp
Start Height (S) option to turn it on ,
then type a value in the box beneath it.
If you do not define the Ramp Start
Height (S) here, the Safe Z level, as
defined in Step 9, is used.
17. Click on the arrow in the Material area of
the Profiling page to view details of the block
of material used for this model.
The difference between the Z Top and Z
bottom values is equal to the thickness of the
block. The Origin shows the material Z zero
position.
18. Make sure that the thickness of the block and
the origin displayed is correct.
If you want to change these settings, click on
the button in the Material area of the
page to display the Setup Job Dimensions
dialog box.
For more details on how to use this, see
“Creating a Model” in the Working with
Models chapter.
19. If you do not want to preview the toolpath in
the 2D View window, click on the Create 2D
Preview option to turn it off .
20. Type a name for the toolpath in the Name box.
21. Click on the Calculate button .
The Offsetting Contours dialog box is
displayed while ArtCAM 2D calculates the
toolpath:

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 A dark red line represents the machining passes
used to Profile the selected vector object in the
model. It is drawn either inside or outside of its
boundary, according to the Profile Side that
you had selected in Step 3.
It is not drawn if you turned the Create 2D
Preview option off in Step 19.
22. Click on the Close button to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.
If you want to add bridging to the Profile toolpath, see
“Adding Bridging” on page 327.
If you want to set the machining order of the Profile
toolpath, see “Setting the Profile Machining Order” on
page 331.
You are now ready to simulate the toolpath you have
created. For details, see “Simulating Toolpaths” on page
337.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 269

 2D Area Clearance
The 2D Area Clearance button in the Toolpaths
area of the Assistant’s Home page allows you to create
a toolpath that clears an area of material based on the
boundary of the vector object you have selected.
Using the 2D Area Clearance page, you can:
• Select multiple tools to perform rest machining,
where ArtCAM 2D automatically selects the
biggest tool first, and then the smaller tools in
order of size to machine the areas that larger
predecessors cannot fit into.
• Select a different tool clearance strategy for
each of the tools you want to use.
Depending on what strategy you select, you can
control the angle, or where and in what
direction the tool cuts into the block of
material.
To clear an area of material:
1. Select the vector object around which you want
to clear an area.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” in the
Working with Vectors chapter.
2. Click on the 2D Area Clearance button
in the Toolpaths area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the 2D Area Clearance
page.
3. Type the absolute Z value of the material
surface that you want to clear in the Start
Depth box.
4. Type the absolute Z zero value of the bottom of
the area you want to clear in the Finish Depth
box.
5. If you want to add or remove extra material
around the vector object, you can type a value
in the Allowance box.
The value you enter sets the distance between
the boundary of the selected vector object and

270 • Machining Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 the profiling tool. Type a positive value to add
material or a negative value to remove it.
6. If you are using more than one tool, type an
allowance for the smallest tool to use when
clearing around the selected vector object in the
Final Tool Allowance box
7. Type a value in the Tolerance box to specify
how closely you want the cutter to follow the
shape of the vector object.
8. If you want to change the height at which the
cutting tool makes rapid moves between
toolpath segments:
• Click on the arrow to display the Safe Z
box and the Home Position’s X, Y and Z
boxes.
• Type a value in the Safe Z box.
9. If you want to define the Home Position for
the machining tool, type values in the Home
Position’s X, Y and Z boxes.
Note: Click on the arrow to hide the Safe Z box and
the Home Position’s X, Y and Z boxes on the 2D
Area Clearance page.

10. Click on the Add button in the Tools

List area to open the Tool Groups
Database:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 271

 11. Double-click on the tool you want to use. This
closes the Tool Groups Database and
displays the selected tool’s details in the Tools
List area.
The machining parameters of the selected tool
are automatically displayed in the Tool
Settings area.
If you want to amend the machining parameters
for the selected tool, click on the arrow in the
Tool Settings area.
For further information, see “Adjusting
Machining Parameters When Creating a
Toolpath” on page 334.
When you have finished, click on the arrow
to hide the machining parameters.
12. If you want to use more than one tool:
• Click on the Add button in the Tools
List area.
• Repeat steps 10 and 11 until all of the tools
that you want to use are listed in the Tools
List window.
13. Click on the tool in the Tools List window
that you want to select a tool clearance strategy
for.
14. Select how you want the tool to clear the area
about the selected vector object using the Tool
Clearance Strategy radio buttons :
• Raster - This strategy machines in passes
back and forth along a specified angle.
• Offset - This strategy machines in repeated
passes, each time moving inwards by the
selected tool’s Stepover value.
You can see the stepover value of the
selected tool when the machining parameters
are displayed in the Tool Settings area of
the 2D Area Clearance page.

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 Raster Tool Clearance at 45°… Offset Tool Clearance at Climb…

15. If you have selected Raster:

• Type the angle you want the tool to move at
in the Raster Angle box.
If you have selected Offset:
• Click on one of the Cut Direction radio
buttons :
Climb Mill - Climb Milling rotates the
cutter in the same direction as the feed
motion.
Conventional - Conventional Milling
rotates the cutter in the opposite direction to
the feed motion.
For more details, see “Machining a Model” on
page 259.
• Click on one of the Start Point radio
buttons :
Outside - Select this option if you want the
tool to cut into the material at the vector
object’s boundary, then machine inwards.
Inside - Select this option if you want the
tool to cut into the material at the vector
object’s centre, then machine outwards.
16. If you want the selected tool to cut to a
different depth than the other tools in the Tools
List window, click on the Independent
Finish Depth option to turn it on .

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 273

 If you have turned this option on , type the
absolute Z zero value of the bottom of the area
you want to clear in the Finish Depth box
below.
17. Repeat steps 13 to 16 for all of the other tools
in the Tools List window.
18. Click on the arrow in the Material area of
the Profiling page to view details of the block
of material used for this model.
The distance between the Z Top and Z bottom
values is equal to the thickness of the block.
The Origin shows the material Z zero position.
19. Make sure that the thickness of the block and
the origin displayed is correct.
If you want to change these settings, click on
the button in the Material area of the
page to display the Setup Job Dimensions
dialog box.
For more details on how to use this, see
“Creating a Model” in the Working with
Models chapter.
20. If you do not want to preview the toolpath in
the 2D View window, click on the Create 2D
Preview option to turn it off .
21. Type a name for the toolpath in the Name box.
22. Click on the Calculate button .
The Offsetting Contours dialog box is
displayed while ArtCAM 2D calculates the
toolpath:

The machining passes used to clear the area

about the selected vector object are represented

274 • Machining Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 by a sequence of dark red lines drawn either
inside or outside of its boundary, according to
the Tool Clearance Strategy that you had
selected in Step 14.
23. Click on the Close button to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.
You are now ready to simulate the toolpath you have
created. For details, see “Simulating Toolpaths” on page
337.

V-Bit or Centreline Carving

The Centreline Carving button in the Toolpaths
area of the Assistant’s Home page allows you to create
a toolpath that replicates a hand carved look for the
vector object or text that you have selected.
The V-Bit Carving page allows you to control the depth
of the centreline carved into the block of material.
To begin centreline carving your vector object or text:
1. Select the vector object or text that you want to
centreline carve.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” in the
Working with Vectors chapter.
2. Click on the Centreline Carving button
in the Toolpaths area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the V-Bit Carving page.
3. Type the absolute Z value of the material
surface that you are carving into in the Start
Depth box.
4. Type a value in the Tolerance box to specify
how closely you want the cutter to follow the
shape of the vector object.
5. If you want to change the height at which the
cutting tool makes rapid moves between
toolpath segments:
• Click on the arrow to display the Safe Z
box and the Home Position’s X, Y and Z
boxes.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 275

 • Type a value in the Safe Z box.
6. If you want to define the Home Position for
the machining tool, type values in the Home
Position’s X, Y and Z boxes.
Note: Click on the arrow to hide the Safe Z box and
the Home Position’s X, Y and Z boxes on the 2D
Area Clearance page.

7. Click on the Select button in the

Carving Tool area of the page to open the
Tool Groups Database:

8. Double-click on the V-Bit, Conical or Ball Nose

tool you want to use. This closes the Tool
Groups Database and displays the selected
tool’s details in the Carving Tool area.
9. If you want to amend the machining parameters
for the selected tool, click on the arrow in the
Carving Tool area.
For further information, see “Adjusting
Machining Parameters When Creating a
Toolpath” on page 334.
When you have finished, click on the arrow
to hide the machining parameters.
10. Click on the Centreline button to
set the width of the path to be engraved.

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 Note: If you choose a tool with a smaller diameter than
the maximum width of the path, ArtCAM 2D makes
multiple passes to clear the specified width of the path.

The selected vector object or text is colour-

filled in cyan during the centreline calculation
process.
The Centreline progress bar positioned
beneath the 2D View window indicates the
progress ArtCAM 2D is making in calculating
the centreline:

You can stop the Centreline command at any

time by clicking on the Cancel button to the
right of the progress bar.
The selected centreline within the vector object
or text is shown in magenta.
When you deselect the vector object or text, the
centreline turns dark red.
11. If you want to limit the depth at which the
selected tool cuts into the block of material:
• Click on the Limit tool maximum depth
option in the Carving Tool area of the page
to turn it on .
• Type the Max Depth value shown in the
Carving Tool area of the page in the
Maximum Depth box.
12. Click on the arrow in the Material area of
the Profiling page to view details of the block
of material used for this model.
The distance between the Z Top and Z bottom
values is equal to the thickness of the block.
The Origin shows the material Z zero position.
13. Make sure that the thickness of the block and
the origin displayed is correct.
If you want to change these settings, click on
the button in the Material area of the

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 277

 page to display the Setup Job Dimensions
dialog box.
For more details on how to use this, see
“Creating a Model” in the Working with
Models chapter.
14. If you do not want to preview the toolpath in
the 2D View window, click on the Create 2D
Preview option to turn it off .
The Create 2D Preview option is turned on
by default.
15. Type a name for the toolpath in the Name box.
16. Click on the Calculate button .
The machining passes used to centreline carve
the selected vector object are represented by a
sequence of dark red lines drawn inside its
boundary.
17. Click on the Close button to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.
You are now ready to simulate the toolpath you have
created. For details, see “Simulating Toolpaths” on page
337.

3D Bevelled Carving
The Create a V-Bit Bevelled Carving button in
the Toolpaths area of the Assistant’s Home page
allows you to create a toolpath that replicates a bevelled
(angled edge) look for the vector text or object that you
have selected.
Using the Bevel Carving page, you can:
• Control the height of the angled edge in the
bevel carving.
• Control the cutting direction of the tool.
To begin bevelling your vector text or object you must:
1. Select the vector object that you want to create
a bevelled carving out of.

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 For details, see “Selecting Vectors” in the
Working with Vectors chapter.
2. Click on the Create a V-Bit Bevelled
Carving button in the Toolpaths area of
the Assistant’s Home page to display the 3D
Bevel Carving page.
3. Type the absolute Z value of the material
surface that you want to cut the profile into in
the Start Depth box.
4. Type the height of the wall in the block of
material, the profiled area situated below the
bevelled area, in the Wall Height box.
5. Type the absolute Z zero value of the bottom of
the cut in the Finish Depth box.
Note: If you are cutting the vector object out of the
block of material, the Finish Depth value is equal to
the Thickness (Z) value entered in the Setup Job
Dimensions dialog box. For details, see “Creating a
Model” in the Working with Models chapter.

6. Type a value in the Tolerance box to specify

how closely you want the cutter to follow the
shape of the vector object.
7. If you want to change the height at which the
cutting tool makes rapid moves between
toolpath segments:
• Click on the arrow to display the Safe Z
box and the Home Position’s X, Y and Z
boxes.
• Type a value in the Safe Z box.
8. If you want to define the Home Position for
the machining tool, type values in the Home
Position’s X, Y and Z boxes.
Note: Click on the arrow to hide the Safe Z box and
the Home Position’s X, Y and Z boxes on the 3D
Bevel Carving page.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 279

 9. Click on the Select button in the
Carving Tool area of the page to open the
Tool Groups Database:

10. Double-click on the V-Bit tool you want to use.

This closes the Tool Groups Database and
displays the selected tool’s details in the
Carving Tool area.
11. If you want to amend the machining parameters
for the selected tool, click on the arrow in the
Carving Tool area.
For further information, see “Adjusting
Machining Parameters When Creating a
Toolpath” on page 334.
When you have finished, click on the arrow
to hide the machining parameters.
12. Click on the Centreline button to
set the width of the path to be carved.
Note: If you choose a tool with a smaller diameter than
the maximum width of the path, ArtCAM 2D makes
multiple passes to clear the specified width of the path.

The selected vector text in the 2D View

window is colour-filled in cyan during the
centreline calculation process.
The Centreline progress bar positioned
beneath the 2D View window indicates the

280 • Machining Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 progress ArtCAM 2D is making in calculating
the centreline:

You can stop the Centreline command at any

time by clicking on the Cancel button to the
right of the progress bar.
The selected centreline within the vector object
or text is shown in magenta.
When you deselect the vector object or text, the
centreline turns dark red.
13. Click on the Select button in the
Profiling Tool area of the page to open the
Tool Groups Database:

14. Double-click on the tool you want to use. This

closes the Tool Groups Database and
displays the selected tool’s details in the
Profiling Tool area.
15. If you want to amend the machining parameters
for the selected tool, click on the arrow in the
Profiling Tool area.
For further information, see “Adjusting
Machining Parameters When Creating a
Toolpath” on page 334.
When you have finished, click on the arrow
to hide the machining parameters.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 281

 16. To set the cut direction, click on the arrow
in the Cut Direction area of the 3D Bevel
Carving page, then click on one of the Cut
Direction radio buttons :
• Climb Mill - Climb Milling rotates the
cutter in the same direction as the feed
motion.
• Conventional – Conventional Milling
rotates the cutter in the opposite direction to
the feed motion.
For more details, see “Machining a Model” on
page 259.
17. Click on the arrow in the Material area of
the 3D Bevel Carving page to view details of
the block of material used for this model.
The difference between the Z Top and Z
bottom values is equal to the thickness of the
block. The Origin shows the material Z zero
position.
18. Make sure that the thickness of the block and
the origin displayed is correct.
If you want to change these settings, click on
the button in the Material area of the
page to display the Setup Job Dimensions
dialog box.
For more details on how to use this, see
“Creating a Model” in the Working with
Models chapter.
19. If you do not want to preview the toolpath in
the 2D View window, click on the Create 2D
Preview option to turn it off .
20. Type a name for the toolpath in the Name box.
21. Click on the Calculate button .
22. Click on the Close button to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.

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 You are now ready to simulate the toolpath you have
created. For details, see “Simulating Toolpaths” on page
337.

Help with creating a 3D Bevelled

Carving
You can display information on how to create a 3D
Bevelled Carving toolpath if you click on at the
top of the 3D Bevel Carving page.
However, if you would like more information on creating
a 3D Bevelled Carving toolpath:
1. Click on the More Help button at
the bottom of the 3D Bevel Carving page to
display the Bevelled Carving Help window.
2. Click on one of the Step 1 radio buttons to
display its corresponding Step 2 in the
window:
• I want to cut the bevelled carving out
of the material – Select this option if you
want to remove the bevelled carving from
the block of material.
• The bevelled carving sits within a
bigger job – Select this option if you do
not want to remove the bevelled carving
from the block of material.
3. Click on the Close Window button
to close the Bevelled Carving
Help window.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 283

 Engraving
The Engraving button in the Toolpaths area of the
Assistant’s Home page allows you to create a toolpath
that engraves the vector text or object that you have
selected.
Using the Engraving page, you can:
• Select both engraving and roughing tools.
• Control the areas that the engraving tool
sharpens and profiles.
• Control the cut direction of the engraving tool.
To engrave a vector object:
1. Select the vector object that you want to
engrave.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” in the
Working with Vectors chapter.
2. Click on the Engraving button in the
Toolpaths area of the Assistant’s Home
page to display the Engraving page.
3. Type the absolute Z value of the material
surface that you want to engrave into in the
Start Depth box.
4. Type the absolute Z zero value of the bottom of
the cut in the Finish Depth box.
5. Type a value in the Tolerance box to specify
how closely you want the cutter to follow the
shape of the vector object.
6. If you are engraving one vector object inside of
another, and do not require the engraving tool to
sharpen the corners or machine the boundary of
the outer vector object, click on the Outer
vectors are boundary option to turn it on
.
In the example below, you can see that the
engraving tool machines along the boundary
and sharpens the corners of the outer

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 rectangular vector object when the Outer
vectors are boundary option is off :
Outer Vectors are boundary Outer Vectors are boundary
OFF… ON…

7. If you want to change the height at which the

cutting tool makes rapid moves between
toolpath segments:
• Click on the arrow to display the Safe Z
box and the Home Position’s X, Y and Z
boxes.
• Type a value in the Safe Z box.
8. If you want to define the Home Position for
the machining tool, type values in the Home
Position’s X, Y and Z boxes.
Note: Click on the arrow to hide the Safe Z box and
the Home Position’s X, Y and Z boxes on the
Engraving page.

9. Click on the Select button in the

Engraving Tool area of the page to display
the Tool Groups Database:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 285

 10. Double-click on the Conical tool you want to
use. This closes the Tool Groups Database,
and displays the selected tool’s details in the
Engraving Tool area.
11. If you want to amend the machining parameters
for the selected tool, click on the arrow in the
Engraving Tool area.
For further information, see “Adjusting
Machining Parameters When Creating a
Toolpath” on page 334.
When you have finished, click on the arrow
to hide the machining parameters.
12. If you want to add or remove extra material
around the vector object, you can type a value
in the Allowance box.
The value you enter sets the distance between
the boundary of the selected vector object and
the engraving tool. Type a positive value to add
material or a negative value to remove it.
13. To set the cut direction, click on one of the Cut
Direction radio buttons in the Engraving
Tool area of the Engraving page:
• Climb Mill - Climb Milling rotates the
cutter in the same direction as the feed
motion.

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 • Conventional – Conventional Milling
rotates the cutter in the opposite direction to
the feed motion.
For more details, see “Machining a Model” on
page 259.
14. If you want the engraving tool to sharpen the
corners of the machined vector object, click on
the Do Corner Sharpening option to turn it
on .
In the example below, you can see that the
engraving tool profiles the vector text A to
sharpen its corners when the Do Corner
Sharpening option is turned on :
Do Corner Sharpening OFF… Do Corner Sharpening ON…

The engraving tool is also lifted in the Z

direction to minimise the curvature in the
corners of the vector text A.
15. If you want the engraving tool to make a single
profile pass around the vector object, click on
the Profile Only option to turn it on .
In the example below, you can see that the
number of machining passes is reduced,
particularly in the central cavity of the vector
text A, when the Profile Only option is turned
on :

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 287

 Profile Only OFF… Profile Only ON…

16. If you want the engraving tool to cut to at a

different depth than the roughing tool, click on
the Independent Finish Depth option to
turn it on .
If you have turned this option on , type the
absolute Z zero value of the bottom of the area
you want to engrave with the engraving tool in
the Finish Depth box below.
17. Click on the Select button in the
Roughing Tool area of the page to display the
Tool Groups Database:

18. Double-click on the tool you want to use. This

closes the Tool Groups Database, and
displays the selected tool’s details in the
Roughing Tool area.

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 19. If you want to amend the machining parameters
for the selected tool, click on the arrow in the
Roughing Tool area.
For further information, see “Adjusting
Machining Parameters When Creating a
Toolpath” on page 334.
When you have finished, click on the arrow
to hide the machining parameters.
20. If you want to add or remove extra material
around the vector object, you can type a value
in the Allowance box.
The value you enter sets the distance between
the boundary of the selected vector object and
the roughing tool. Type a positive value to add
material or a negative value to remove it.
21. If you want to automatically offset the
roughing tool in order to leave sufficient
material for the angled-edge of the Conical
engraving tool to form the side of the engraved
feature, click on the Offset for engraving
tool option to turn it on .
22. Click on the arrow in the Material area of
the Engraving page to view details of the
block of material used for this model.
The difference between the Z Top and Z
bottom values is equal to the thickness of the
block. The Origin shows the material Z zero
position.
23. Make sure that the thickness of the block and
the origin displayed is correct.
If you want to change these settings, click on
the button in the Material area of the
page to display the Setup Job Dimensions
dialog box.
For more details on how to use this, see
“Creating a Model” in the Working with
Models chapter.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 289

 24. If you do not want to preview the toolpath in
the 2D View window, click on the Create 2D
Preview option to turn it off .
25. Type a name for the toolpath in the Name box.
26. Click on the Calculate button .
27. Click on the Close button to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.
You are now ready to simulate the toolpath you have
created. For details, see “Simulating Toolpaths” on page
337.

Centreline Engraved Feature

The Machine Vectors button in the Toolpaths
area of the Assistant’s Home page allows you to create
a centreline engraved (female) feature.
The boundary of a selected vector object represents the
centreline of the cutting tool. The engraved feature has
no diameter other than that of the tip of the cutting tool.

This toolpath is mainly used to produce simple, engraved

text or to provide sharp profiling for detailed edges.
1. Select the vector object that you want to
engrave about the outline.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” in the
Working with Vectors chapter.
2. Click on the Machine Vectors button in
the Toolpaths area of the Assistant’s Home
page to display the Machine Vectors page.
3. Type the absolute Z value of the material
surface that you want to cut the outline into in
the Start Depth box.
4. Type the absolute Z zero value of the bottom of
the cut in the Finish Depth box
5. Type a value in the Tolerance box to specify
how closely you want the cutter to follow the
shape of the vector object.

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 6. If you want to change the height at which the
cutting tool makes rapid moves between
toolpath segments:
• Click on the arrow to display the Safe Z
box and the Home Position’s X, Y and Z
boxes.
• Type a value in the Safe Z box.
7. If you want to define the Home Position for
the machining tool, type values in the Home
Position’s X, Y and Z boxes.
Note: Click on the arrow to hide the Safe Z box and
the Home Position’s X, Y and Z boxes on the
Machine Vectors page.

8. Click on the Select button in the

Profiling Tool area of the page to open the
Tool Groups Database:

9. Double-click on the tool you want to use. This

closes the Tool Groups Database, and
displays the selected tool’s details in the
Profiling Tool area.
10. If you want to amend the machining parameters
for the selected tool, click on the arrow in the
Profiling Tool area.
For further information, see “Adjusting
Machining Parameters When Creating a
Toolpath” on page 334.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 291

 When you have finished, click on the arrow
to hide the machining parameters.
11. Click on the arrow in the Material area of
the Machine Vectors page to view details of
the block of material used for this model.
The difference between the Z Top and Z
bottom values is equal to the thickness of the
block. The Origin shows the material Z zero
position.
12. Make sure that the thickness of the block and
the origin displayed is correct.
If you want to change these settings, click on
the button in the Material area of the
page to display the Setup Job Dimensions
dialog box.
For more details on how to use this, see
“Creating a Model” in the Working with
Models chapter.
13. If you do not want to preview the toolpath in
the 2D View window, click on the Create 2D
Preview option to turn it off .
14. Type a name for the toolpath in the Name box.
15. Click on the Calculate button .
The Offsetting Contours dialog box is
displayed while ArtCAM 2D calculates the
toolpath:

The passes used to machine the stepped insert

are represented by a sequence of dark red lines
drawn on the boundary of the selected vector
object(s):

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 16. Click on the Close button to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.
You are now ready to simulate the toolpath you have
created. For details, see “Simulating Toolpaths” on page
337.

Inlay Wizard
The Inlay Wizard button in the Toolpaths area of
the Assistant’s Home page allows you to create a
toolpath that can produce one of many different kinds of
inlays and inserts. Essentially, you can use this strategy
to machine interlocking male and female parts.
To produce a particular style of interlocking male and
female parts:

1. Select the vector object that you want to create

an inlay or insert out of.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” in the
Working with Vectors chapter.
2. Click on the Inlay Wizard button in the
Toolpaths area of the Assistant’s Home
page to display the Inlay Wizard page.
3. Select the Inlay Type that you want to create:
• Pocket. For details, see “Creating a Pocket”
on page 294.
• Hole. For details, see “Creating a Hole” on
page 300.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 293

 • Stepped Pocket. For details, see
“Creating a Stepped Pocket” on page 304.
• Stepped Hole. For details, see “Creating a
Stepped Hole” on page 310.
• Straight Insert. For details, see “Creating
a Straight Insert” on page 314.
• Stepped Insert. For details, see “Creating
a Stepped Insert” on page 318.

Creating a Pocket
This Female Inlay option displays the Female Inlay
Pocket page in the Assistant window. This allows you
to create a pocket, which is a hole in the material that has
a bottom and does not go right through the block. You
can then create a male straight insert to fit into the pocket.
Using the Female Inlay Pocket page, you can:
• Select both roughing and finishing tools.
• Select a tool clearance strategy for the roughing
tool you want to use.
Depending on the strategy you select, you can
control the angle, where and in what direction
the tool cuts into the block of material.
To create a pocket:
1. Click on the Pocket option in the Inlay
Types area of the Inlay Wizard page to
display the Female Inlay Pocket page in the
Assistant window.
2. Type the absolute Z value of the material
surface in which you are creating the pocket in
the Start Depth box.
3. Type the absolute Z zero value of the bottom of
the pocket you are creating in the Finish
Depth box.
4. If you want to enlarge or reduce the pocket
around the selected vector object, you can type
a value in the Allowance box.

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 The value you enter sets the distance between
the boundary of the selected vector object and
the finishing tool. Type a positive value to
enlarge the pocket or a negative value to reduce
it.
Make sure that there is a sufficient allowance
for the corresponding male straight insert to fit
into the pocket.
5. Type a value in the Tolerance box to specify
how closely you want the cutter to follow the
shape of the selected vector object.
6. If you want to change the height at which the
cutting tool makes rapid moves between
toolpath segments:
• Click on the arrow to display the Safe Z
box and the Home Position’s X, Y and Z
boxes.
• Type a value in the Safe Z box.
7. If you want to define the Home Position for
the machining tool, type values in the Home
Position’s X, Y and Z boxes.
Note: Click on the arrow to hide the Safe Z box and
the Home Position’s X, Y and Z boxes on the Female
Inlay page.

8. Click on the Select button in the

Finishing Tool area of the page to open the
Tool Groups Database:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 295

 9. Double-click on the tool you want to use. This
closes the Tool Groups Database and
displays the selected tool’s details in the
Finishing Tool area.
Important: The selected Finishing Tool must be the
same size as the tool used to machine the male straight
insert to be fitted into this pocket.

10. If you want to amend the machining parameters

for the selected tool, click on the arrow in the
Finishing Tool area.
For further information, see “Adjusting
Machining Parameters When Creating a
Toolpath” on page 334.
When you have finished, click on the arrow
to hide the machining parameters.
11. Click on the Select button in the
Roughing Tool area of the page to open the
Tool Groups Database:

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 12. Double-click on the tool you want to use. This
closes the Tool Groups Database and
displays the selected tool’s details in the
Roughing Tool area.
13. If you want to amend the machining parameters
for the selected tool, click on the arrow in the
Roughing Tool area.
For further information, see “Adjusting
Machining Parameters When Creating a
Toolpath” on page 334.
When you have finished, click on the arrow
to hide the machining parameters.
14. If you want to enlarge or reduce the pocket
around the selected vector object, you can type
a value in the Allowance box in the
Roughing Tool area of the page.
The value you enter sets the distance between
the boundary of the selected vector object and
the roughing tool. Type a positive value to
enlarge the pocket or a negative value to reduce
it.
Make sure that there is a sufficient allowance
for the corresponding male straight insert to fit
into the pocket.
15. Select how you want the roughing tool to clear
the pocket using the Strategy radio buttons :

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 297

 • Raster - This strategy machines in passes
back and forth along a specified angle.
• Offset - This strategy machines in repeated
passes, each time moving inwards by the
Stepover value of the tool you use.
You can see the stepover value of the
selected tool when the machining parameters
are displayed in the Roughing Tool area.
Raster Strategy at 45°… Offset Strategy at Climb…

If you have selected Raster:

• Type the angle you want the tool to move at
in the Angle box.
• Click on one of the Profile Pass radio
buttons :
None – Select this option if you want the
roughing tool to machine the first offset
pass, then move inwards to clear the
remaining area. The tool does not profile the
selected vector object.
First – Select this option if you want the
roughing tool to profile the selected vector
object first, and then move inwards to clear
the remaining area.
Last – Select this option if you want the
roughing tool to machine the innermost
offset pass first, move outwards to clear the
remaining area, then finally profile the
selected vector object.
If you have selected Offset:

298 • Machining Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 • Click on one of the Cut Direction radio
buttons :
Climb - Climb Milling rotates the cutter in
the same direction as the feed motion.
Conv. - Conventional Milling rotates the
cutter in the opposite direction to the feed
motion.
For more details, see “Machining a Model”
on page 259.
• Click on one of the Start Point radio
buttons :
Outside - Select this option if you want the
tool to cut into the material at the boundary
of the selected vector object, then machine
inwards.
Inside - Select this option if you want the
tool to cut into the material at the centre of
the selected vector object, then machine
outwards.
16. Click on the arrow in the Material area to
view details of the block of material used for
this model.
The distance between the Z Top and Z bottom
values is equal to the thickness of the block.
The Origin shows the material Z zero position.
17. Make sure that the thickness of the block and
the origin displayed is correct.
If you want to change these settings, click on
the button in the Material area of the
page to display the Setup Job Dimensions
dialog box.
For more details on how to use this, see
“Creating a Model” in the Working with
Models chapter.
18. If you do not want to preview the toolpath in
the 2D View window, click on the Create 2D
Preview option to turn it off .
19. Type a name for the toolpath in the Name box.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 299

 20. Click on the Calculate button .
The Offsetting Contours dialog box is
displayed while ArtCAM 2D calculates the
toolpath:

The passes used to machine the pocket are

represented by a sequence of dark red lines
drawn about the boundary and inside of the
selected vector object, according to the
Strategy that you had selected in Step 15.
21. Click on the Close button to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.
You are now ready to simulate the toolpath you have
created. For details, see “Simulating Toolpaths” on page
337.

Creating a Hole
This Female Inlay option displays the Female Inlay
page in the Assistant window. This allows you to create
a hole in the block of material. You can then create a
male straight insert to fit into the hole.
Using the Female Inlay page, you can:
• Select a tool to cut the hole in the block of
material.
• Control the cutting direction of the tool.
To create a hole:
1. Click on the Hole option in the Inlay
Types area of the Inlay Wizard page to
display the Female Inlay page in the
Assistant window.

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 2. Type the absolute Z value of the material
surface in which you are creating the hole in the
Start Depth box.
3. Type the absolute Z zero value of the bottom of
the hole you are creating in the Finish Depth
box.
4. If you want to enlarge or reduce the hole around
the selected vector object, you can type a value
in the Allowance box.
The value you enter sets the distance between
the boundary of the selected vector object and
the profiling tool. Type a positive value to
enlarge the hole or a negative value to reduce it.
Make sure that there is a sufficient allowance
for the corresponding male straight insert to fit
into the hole.
5. Type a value in the Tolerance box to specify
how closely you want the cutter to follow the
shape of the vector object.
6. If you want to change the height at which the
cutting tool makes rapid moves between
toolpath segments:
• Click on the arrow to display the Safe Z
box and the Home Position’s X, Y and Z
boxes.
• Type a value in the Safe Z box.
7. If you want to define the Home Position for
the machining tool, type values in the Home
Position’s X, Y and Z boxes.
Note: Click on the arrow to hide the Safe Z box and
the Home Position’s X, Y and Z boxes on the Female
Inlay page.

8. Click on the Select button in the Tool

area of the page to display the Tool Groups
Database:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 301

 9. Double-click on the tool you want to use. This
closes the Tool Groups Database and
displays the selected tool’s details in the Tool
area.
10. If you want to amend the machining parameters
for the selected tool, click on the arrow in the
Tool area.
For further information, see “Adjusting
Machining Parameters When Creating a
Toolpath” on page 334.
When you have finished, click on the arrow
to hide the machining parameters.
11. To set the cut direction, click on the arrow
in the Cut Direction area of the Female
Inlay page, then click on one of the Cut
Direction radio buttons :
• Climb Mill - Climb Milling rotates the
cutter in the same direction as the feed
motion.
• Conventional - Conventional Milling
rotates the cutter in the opposite direction to
the feed motion.
For more details, see “Machining a Model”
on page 259.
12. Click on the arrow in the Material area of
the Female Inlay page to view details of the
block of material used for this model.

302 • Machining Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 The distance between the Z Top and Z bottom
values is equal to the thickness of the block.
The Origin shows the material Z zero position.
13. Make sure that the thickness of the block and
the origin displayed is correct.
If you want to change these settings, click on
the button in the Material area of the
page to display the Setup Job Dimensions
dialog box.
For more details on how to use this, see
“Creating a Model” in the Working with
Models chapter.
14. If you do not want to preview the toolpath in
the 2D View window, click on the Create 2D
Preview option to turn it off .
15. Type a name for the toolpath in the Name box.
16. Click on the Calculate button .
The Offsetting Contours dialog box is
displayed while ArtCAM 2D calculates the
toolpath:

The passes used to machine the hole are

represented by a sequence of dark red lines
drawn about the boundary of the selected vector
object:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 303

 17. Click on the Close button to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.
You are now ready to simulate the toolpath you have
created. For details, see “Simulating Toolpaths” on page
337.

Creating a Stepped Pocket

This Female Inlay option displays the Female
Stepped Pocket Inlay page in the Assistant window.
This allows you to create a stepped pocket, which is a
stepped hole in the material that has a bottom and does
not go right through the block. You can then create a
male straight insert to fit into the stepped pocket.
Using the Female Stepped Pocket Inlay page, you
can:
• Control the depth and width of the pocket
shoulder.
• Select both roughing and finishing tools.
• Select a tool clearance strategy for the roughing
tool you want to use.
Depending on what strategy you select, you can
control the angle, where and in what direction
the tool cuts into the block of material.
To create a stepped pocket:
1. Click on the Stepped Pocket option in
the Inlay Types area of the Inlay Wizard
page to display the Female Stepped Pocket
Inlay page in the Assistant window.

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 2. Type the absolute Z value of the material
surface in which you want to create the stepped
pocket in the Start Depth box.
3. Type the absolute Z zero value of the bottom of
the stepped pocket you want to create the
Finish Depth box.
4. If you want to enlarge or reduce the stepped
pocket around the selected vector object, you
can type a value in the Allowance box.
The value you enter sets the distance between
the boundary of the selected vector object and
the finishing tool. Type a positive value to
enlarge the stepped pocket or a negative value
to reduce it.
Make sure that there is a sufficient allowance
for the corresponding male straight insert to fit
into the hole.
5. If you want to enlarge or reduce the stepped
pocket around the selected vector object, you
can type a value in the Allowance box.
The value you enter sets the distance between
the boundary of the selected vector object and
the finishing tool. Type a positive value to
enlarge the stepped pocket or a negative value
to reduce it.
Make sure that there is a sufficient allowance
for the corresponding male stepped insert to fit
into the stepped pocket.
6. Type a value in the Tolerance box to specify
how closely you want the cutter to follow the
shape of the selected vector object.
7. If you want to change the height at which the
cutting tool makes rapid moves between
toolpath segments:
• Click on the arrow to display the Safe Z
box and the Home Position’s X, Y and Z
boxes.
• Type a value in the Safe Z box.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 305

 8. If you want to define the Home Position for
the machining tool, type values in the Home
Position’s X, Y and Z boxes.
Note: Click on the arrow to hide the Safe Z box and
the Home Position’s X, Y and Z boxes on the Female
Stepped Pocket Inlay page.

9. Type the relative depth of the shoulder from the

Start Depth in the Depth (d) box, in the
Shoulder Dimensions area of the page.
10. Type the width of the shoulder in the Width
(s) box.
11. Click on the Select button in the
Finishing Tool area of the page to open the
Tool Groups Database:

12. Double-click on the tool you want to use. This

closes the Tool Groups Database and
displays the selected tool’s details in the
Finishing Tool area.
Note: The selected Finishing Tool must be the same
size as the tool used to machine the male stepped insert
which you want to fit into this stepped pocket.

13. If you want to amend the machining parameters

for the selected tool, click on the arrow in the
Finishing Tool area.

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 For further information, see “Adjusting
Machining Parameters When Creating a
Toolpath” on page 334.
When you have finished, click on the arrow
to hide the machining parameters.
14. Click on the Select button in the
Roughing Tool area of the page to open the
Tool Groups Database:

15. Double-click on the tool you want to use. This

closes the Tool Groups Database and
displays the selected tool’s details in the
Roughing Tool area.
16. If you want to amend the machining parameters
for the selected tool, click on the arrow in the
Roughing Tool area.
For further information, see “Adjusting
Machining Parameters When Creating a
Toolpath” on page 334.
When you have finished, click on the arrow
to hide the machining parameters.
17. If you want to enlarge or reduce the stepped
pocket around the selected vector object, you
can type a value in the Allowance box in the
Roughing Tool area of the page.
The value you enter sets the distance between
the boundary of the selected vector object and
the roughing tool. Type a positive value to

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 307

 enlarge the stepped pocket or a negative value
to reduce it.
Make sure that there is a sufficient allowance
for the corresponding male straight insert to fit
into the stepped pocket.
18. Select how you want the roughing tool to clear
the stepped pocket using the Strategy radio
buttons :
• Raster - This strategy machines in passes
back and forth along a specified angle.
• Offset - This strategy machines in repeated
passes, each time moving inwards by the
Stepover value of the tool you use.
You can see the stepover value of the
selected tool when the machining parameters
are displayed in the Roughing Tool area of
the Female Stepped Pocket Inlay page.
Raster Strategy at 45°… Offset Strategy…

If you have selected Raster:

• Type the angle you want the tool to move at
in the Angle box.
• Click on one of the Profile Pass radio
buttons :
None – Select this option if you want the
roughing tool to machine the first offset
pass, then move inwards to clear the
remaining area. The tool does not profile the
selected vector object.

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 First – Select this option if you want the
roughing tool to profile the selected vector
object first, and then move inwards to clear
the remaining area.
Last – Select this option if you want the
roughing tool to machine the innermost
offset pass first, move outwards to clear the
remaining area, then finally profile the
selected vector object.
If you have selected Offset:
• Click on one of the Cut Direction radio
buttons :
Climb - Climb Milling rotates the cutter in
the same direction as the feed motion.
Conv. - Conventional Milling rotates the
cutter in the opposite direction to the feed
motion.
For more details, see “Machining a Model”
on page 259.
• Click on one of the Start Point radio
buttons :
Outside - Select this option if you want the
tool to cut into the material at the boundary
of the selected vector object, then machine
inwards.
Inside - Select this option if you want the
tool to cut into the material at the centre of
the selected vector object, then machine
outwards.
19. Click on the arrow in the Material area of
the Female Stepped Pocket Inlay page to
view details of the block of material used for
this model.
The distance between the Z Top and Z bottom
values is equal to the thickness of the block.
The Origin shows the material Z zero position.
20. Make sure that the thickness of the block and
the origin displayed is correct.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 309

 If you want to change these settings, click on
the button in the Material area of the
page to display the Setup Job Dimensions
dialog box.
For more details on how to use this, see
“Creating a Model” in the Working with
Models chapter.
21. If you do not want to preview the toolpath in
the 2D View window, click on the Create 2D
Preview option to turn it off .
22. Type a name for the toolpath in the Name box.
23. Click on the Calculate button .
The Offsetting Contours dialog box is
displayed while ArtCAM 2D calculates the
toolpath:

The passes used to machine the stepped pocket

are represented by a sequence of dark red lines
drawn about the boundary and inside of the
selected vector object, according to the
Strategy that you had selected in Step 18.
24. Click on the Close button to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.
You are now ready to simulate the toolpath you have
created. For details, see “Simulating Toolpaths” on page
337.

Creating a Stepped Hole

This Female Inlay option displays the Female
Stepped Hole Inlay page in the Assistant window.
This allows you to create a stepped hole in the block of

310 • Machining Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 material. You can then create a male stepped insert to fit
into the stepped hole.
Using the Female Stepped Hole Inlay page, you can:
• Control the depth and width of the hole
shoulder.
• Select a tool to cut the hole in the block of
material.
• Control the cutting direction of the tool.
To create a stepped hole:
1. Click on the Stepped Hole option in the
Inlay Types area of the Inlay Wizard page to
display the Female Stepped Hole Inlay
page in the Assistant window.
2. Type the absolute Z value of the material
surface in which you are creating the hole in the
Start Depth box.
3. Type the absolute Z zero value of the bottom of
the hole you are creating in the Finish Depth
box.
4. If you want to enlarge or reduce the stepped
hole around the selected vector object, you can
type a value in the Allowance box.
The value you enter sets the distance between
the boundary of the selected vector object and
the tool. Type a positive value to enlarge the
stepped hole or a negative value to reduce it.
Make sure that there is a sufficient allowance
for the corresponding male stepped insert to fit
into the stepped hole.
5. Type a value in the Tolerance box to specify
how closely you want the cutter to follow the
shape of the vector object.
6. If you want to change the height at which the
cutting tool makes rapid moves between
toolpath segments:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 311

 • Click on the arrow to display the Safe Z
box and the Home Position’s X, Y and Z
boxes.
• Type a value in the Safe Z box.
7. If you want to define the Home Position for
the machining tool, type values in the Home
Position’s X, Y and Z boxes.
Note: Click on the arrow to hide the Safe Z box and
the Home Position’s X, Y and Z boxes on the Female
Stepped Hole Inlay page.

8. Type the relative depth of the shoulder from the

Start Depth in the Depth (d) box, in the
Shoulder Dimensions area of the page.
9. Type the width of the shoulder in the Width (s)
box.
10. Click on the Select button in the Tool
area of the page to display the Tool Groups
Database:

11. Double-click on the tool you want to use. This

closes the Tool Groups Database and
displays the selected tool’s details in the Tool
area.
12. If you want to amend the machining parameters
for the selected tool, click on the arrow in the
Tool area.

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 For further information, see “Adjusting
Machining Parameters When Creating a
Toolpath” on page 334.
When you have finished, click on the arrow
to hide the machining parameters.
13. To set the cut direction, click on the arrow
in the Cut Direction area of the Female
Stepped Hole Inlay page, then click on one
of the Cut Direction radio buttons :
• Climb Mill - Climb Milling rotates the
cutter in the same direction as the feed
motion.
• Conventional - Conventional Milling
rotates the cutter in the opposite direction to
the feed motion.
For more details, see “Machining a Model”
on page 259.
14. Click on the arrow in the Material area of
the Female Stepped Hole Inlay page to
view details of the block of material used for
this model.
The distance between the Z Top and Z bottom
values is equal to the thickness of the block.
The Origin shows the material Z zero position.
15. Make sure that the thickness of the block and
the origin displayed is correct.
If you want to change these settings, click on
the button in the Material area of the
page to display the Setup Job Dimensions
dialog box.
For more details on how to use this, see
“Creating a Model” in the Working with
Models chapter.
16. If you do not want to preview the toolpath in
the 2D View window, click on the Create 2D
Preview option to turn it off .
17. Type a name for the toolpath in the Name box.
18. Click on the Calculate button .

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 313

 The Offsetting Contours dialog box is
displayed while ArtCAM 2D calculates the
toolpath:

The passes used to machine the stepped hole are

represented by a sequence of dark red lines
drawn about the boundary of the selected vector
object:

19. Click on the Close button to return to

the Assistant’s Home page.
You are now ready to simulate the toolpath you have
created. For details, see “Simulating Toolpaths” on page
337.

Creating a Straight Insert

This Male Inlay option displays the Male Insert page
in the Assistant window. This allows you to create a
male straight insert from the block of material. You can
then create a female hole or pocket to fit the male straight
insert into.
Using the Male Insert page, you can:
• Select a tool to cut the straight insert out of the
block.

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 • Control the cutting direction of the tool.
To create a straight insert:
1. Click on the Straight option in the Inlay
Types area of the Inlay Wizard page to
display the Male Insert page in the Assistant
window.
2. Type the absolute Z value of the material
surface in which you are creating the straight
insert in the Start Depth box.
3. Type the absolute Z zero value of the bottom of
the straight insert you are creating in the Finish
Depth box.
4. If you want to enlarge or reduce the straight
insert around the selected vector object, you can
type a value in the Allowance box.
The value you enter sets the distance between
the boundary of the selected vector object and
the tool. Type a positive value to enlarge the
straight insert or a negative value to reduce it.
Make sure that there is a sufficient allowance
for the corresponding female hole or pocket.
5. Type a value in the Tolerance box to specify
how closely you want the cutter to follow the
shape of the vector object.
6. If you want to change the height at which the
cutting tool makes rapid moves between
toolpath segments:
• Click on the arrow to display the Safe Z
box and the Home Position’s X, Y and Z
boxes.
• Type a value in the Safe Z box.
7. If you want to define the Home Position for
the machining tool, type values in the Home
Position’s X, Y and Z boxes.
Note: Click on the arrow to hide the Safe Z box and
the Home Position’s X, Y and Z boxes on the Male
Insert page.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 315

 8. Click on the Select button in the Tool
area of the page to display the Tool Groups
Database:

9. Double-click on the tool you want to use. This

closes the Tool Groups Database and
displays the selected tool’s details in the Tool
area.
Note: The selected Tool must be the same size as that
used to machine the female hole or pocket which you
want to fit this straight insert into.

10. If you want to amend the machining parameters

for the selected tool, click on the arrow in the
Tool area.
For further information, see “Adjusting
Machining Parameters When Creating a
Toolpath” on page 334.
When you have finished, click on the arrow
to hide the machining parameters.
11. To set the cut direction, click on the arrow
in the Cut Direction area of the Male Insert
page, then click on one of the Cut Direction
radio buttons :
• Climb Mill - Climb Milling rotates the
cutter in the same direction as the feed
motion.

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 • Conventional - Conventional Milling
rotates the cutter in the opposite direction to
the feed motion.
For more details, see “Machining a Model”
on page 259.
12. Click on the arrow in the Material area of
the Male Insert page to view details of the
block of material used for this model.
The distance between the Z Top and Z bottom
values is equal to the thickness of the block.
The Origin shows the material Z zero position.
13. Make sure that the thickness of the block and
the origin displayed is correct.
If you want to change these settings, click on
the button in the Material area of the
page to display the Setup Job Dimensions
dialog box.
For more details on how to use this, see
“Creating a Model” in the Working with
Models chapter.
14. If you do not want to preview the toolpath in
the 2D View window, click on the Create 2D
Preview option to turn it off .
15. Type a name for the toolpath in the Name box.
16. Click on the Calculate button .
The Offsetting Contours dialog box is
displayed while ArtCAM 2D calculates the
toolpath:

The passes used to machine the straight insert

are represented by a sequence of dark red lines

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 317

 drawn about the boundary of the selected vector
object:

17. Click on the Close button to return to

the Assistant’s Home page.
You are now ready to simulate the toolpath you have
created. For details, see “Simulating Toolpaths” on page
337.

Creating a Stepped Insert

This Male Inlay option displays the Male Stepped
Insert page in the Assistant window. This allows you
to create a male stepped insert from the block of material.
You can then create a female stepped hole or stepped
pocket to fit the male stepped insert into.
Using the Male Stepped Insert page, you can:
• Select a tool to cut the stepped insert out of the
block.
• Control the depth and width of the insert
shoulder.
• Control the cutting direction of the tool.
To create a stepped insert:
1. Click on the Stepped option in the Inlay
Types area of the Inlay Wizard page to
display the Male Stepped Insert page in the
Assistant window.
2. Type the absolute Z value of the material
surface in which you are creating the stepped
insert in the Start Depth box.

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 3. Type the absolute Z zero value of the bottom of
the stepped insert you are creating in the Finish
Depth box.
4. If you want to enlarge or reduce the stepped
insert around the selected vector object, you can
type a value in the Allowance box.
The value you enter sets the distance between
the boundary of the selected vector object and
the tool. Type a positive value to enlarge the
stepped insert or a negative value to reduce it.
Make sure that there is a sufficient allowance
for the corresponding female stepped hole or
stepped pocket.
5. Type a value in the Tolerance box to specify
how closely you want the cutter to follow the
shape of the vector object.
6. If you want to change the height at which the
cutting tool makes rapid moves between
toolpath segments:
• Click on the arrow to display the Safe Z
box and the Home Position’s X, Y and Z
boxes.
• Type a value in the Safe Z box.
7. If you want to define the Home Position for
the machining tool, type values in the Home
Position’s X, Y and Z boxes.
Note: Click on the arrow to hide the Safe Z box and
the Home Position’s X, Y and Z boxes on the Male
Stepped Insert page.

8. Type the relative depth of the shoulder from the

Start Depth in the Depth (d) box, in the
Shoulder Dimensions area of the page.
9. Type the width of the shoulder in the Width (s)
box.
10. Click on the Select button in the Tool
area of the page to display the Tool Groups
Database:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 319

 11. Double-click on the tool you want to use. This
closes the Tool Groups Database and
displays the selected tool’s details in the Tool
area.
Note: The selected Tool must be the same size as that
used to machine the female stepped hole or stepped
pocket which you want to fit this stepped insert into.

12. If you want to amend the machining parameters

for the selected tool, click on the arrow in the
Tool area.
For further information, see “Adjusting
Machining Parameters When Creating a
Toolpath” on page 334.
When you have finished, click on the arrow
to hide the machining parameters.
13. To set the cut direction, click on the arrow
in the Cut Direction area of the Male
Stepped Insert page, then click on one of the
Cut Direction radio buttons :
• Climb Mill - Climb Milling rotates the
cutter in the same direction as the feed
motion.
• Conventional - Conventional Milling
rotates the cutter in the opposite direction to
the feed motion.

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 For more details, see “Machining a Model”
on page 259.
14. Click on the arrow in the Material area of
the Male Stepped Insert page to view details
of the block of material used for this model.
The distance between the Z Top and Z bottom
values is equal to the thickness of the block.
The Origin shows the material Z zero position.
15. Make sure that the thickness of the block and
the origin displayed is correct.
If you want to change these settings, click on
the button in the Material area of the
page to display the Setup Job Dimensions
dialog box.
For more details on how to use this, see
“Creating a Model” in the Working with
Models chapter.
16. If you do not want to preview the toolpath in
the 2D View window, click on the Create 2D
Preview option to turn it off .
17. Type a name for the toolpath in the Name box.
18. Click on the Calculate button .
The Offsetting Contours dialog box is
displayed while ArtCAM 2D calculates the
toolpath:

The passes used to machine the stepped insert

are represented by a sequence of dark red lines
drawn about the boundary of the selected vector
object:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 321

 19. Click on the Close button to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.
You are now ready to simulate the toolpath you have
created. For details, see “Simulating Toolpaths” on page
337.

Drill Holes
When creating a sign, it is often necessary to drill holes in
the block of material so that it can be hung.
The Draw Drill Holes button in the Toolpaths
area of the Assistant’s Home page allows you to create
drill holes.
The hole size is determined by the diameter of the cutting
tool that is used to drill it.
When drilling holes you can use peck drilling to reduce
chip packing in the hole. The tool drills a short distance
into the block of material, then withdraws. The deeper the
hole, the more frequent the drill must be retracted (or
pecked) to be effective:

322 • Machining Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 The selected tool is retracted from the block of material
to the Retraction Z level when it reaches the level
displayed in the Max.Depth box in the Tool area of the
page. The Max.Depth is also referred to as the Peck
Distance. The tool then continues to cut deeper into the
block of material until the Finish Depth is reached or
the Max.Depth is reached again. In the latter instance,
the tool retracts from the block of material to the
Retraction Z level again. This cycle continues until the
Finish Depth is finally reached.
To create drill holes in your model:
1. Select vector objects through which you want to
create drill holes.
For details, see “Selecting Vectors” in the
Working with Vectors chapter.
2. Click on the Draw Drill Holes button to
display the Drilling page in the Assistant
window.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 323

 3. Type the absolute Z value of the material
surface in the Start Depth box. This is where
the drilling starts.
4. Type the absolute Z zero value of the bottom of
each drill hole in the Finish Depth box.
5. If you want to change the height at which the
cutting tool makes rapid moves between
toolpath segments:
• Click on the arrow to display the Safe Z
box and the Home Position’s X, Y and Z
boxes.
• Type a value in the Safe Z box.
6. If you want to define the Home Position for
the machining tool, type values in the Home
Position’s X, Y and Z boxes.
Note: Click on the arrow to hide the Safe Z box and
the Home Position’s X, Y and Z boxes on the
Engraving page.

7. Click on the Select button in the Tool area of

the page to open the Tool Groups Database:

8. Double-click on the tool you want to use to

close the Tool Groups Database, and
display the selected tool’s details in the Tool
area.

324 • Machining Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 9. If you want to amend the machining parameters
for the selected tool, click on the arrow in the
Engraving Tool area.
For further information, see “Adjusting
Machining Parameters When Creating a
Toolpath” on page 334.
When you have finished, click on the arrow
to hide the machining parameters.
Note: The diameter of the selected tool is equal to the
diameter of the drill holes.

10. To set where the holes are drilled in your

model, click on one of the Drill Centre of…
radio buttons :
• Circular Vectors – Select this option if
you have selected circles or ellipses to define
the position of the drill holes.
• All Vectors – Select this option if you have
selected vector objects that are not circular.
ArtCAM 2D then drills holes at the centre of
all selected vector objects, irrespective of
their shape. The holes are drilled at the
centre of the bounding box that surrounds
the selected vector object.
• All Vector Nodes – Select this option to
drill holes at each node (point) in the
selected vector object. For example, holes
would be drilled in a square at each corner,
assuming that there are no intermediate
points on any of its four sides.
For details on nodes (points), see “Inserting
a Point” and “Editing Vector Nodes” in the
Working with Vectors chapter.
11. If you want to drill the holes using the peck
drilling method:
• Click on the Peck Drilling option to turn it
on and display the Retraction Z box.
• Type a value in the Retraction Z box.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 325

 If you do not, make sure that the Peck Drilling
option is turned off .
12. Click on the arrow in the Material area of
the Engraving page to view details of the
block of material used for this model.
The difference between the Z Top and Z
bottom values is equal to the thickness of the
block. The Origin shows the material Z zero
position.
13. Make sure that the thickness of the block and
the origin displayed is correct.
If you want to change these settings, click on
the button in the Material area of the
page to display the Setup Job Dimensions
dialog box.
For more details on how to use this, see
“Creating a Model” in the Working with
Models chapter.
14. If you do not want to preview the toolpath in
the 2D View window, click on the Create 2D
Preview option to turn it off .
15. Type a name for the toolpath in the Name box.
16. Click on the Calculate button .
17. Click on the Close button to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.
You are now ready to simulate the toolpath you have
created for the drill holes. For details, see “Simulating
Toolpaths” on page 337.

326 • Machining Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

Adding Bridging
Bridging is a precautionary measure to prevent a profiled
vector object from shifting in the block of material as it is
machined.
The tool used to profile vector objects lifts slightly in the
Z direction about the position of each bridge, leaving
small tabs that hold the vector object in position during
machining. The machined vector object can then be
gently snapped out from the block of material.
You can add bridges to any existing Profile toolpath you
have created. To do so:
1. Click on a Profile toolpath to select it.
The selected Profile toolpath is dark red and
surrounded by a bounding box.
2. Click on the Create Bridges button in the
Toolpaths area to display the Bridging page
in the Assistant window.
Note: If you open this page without a Profile toolpath
selected, there are no input boxes shown on the
Bridging page. Click on a Profile toolpath to display the
input boxes.

3. Type a value in the Bridge Length box to set

the length of each bridge.
4. Type a value in the Bridge Thickness box to
set the thickness of each bridge in the Z
direction.
5. To set how the bridges are added to the Profile
toolpath, click on one of the Add Bridges To
Profiles radio buttons :
• Constant Number – Select this option to
place a specific number of evenly spaced
bridges on each Profile pass.
If you select this option, type the number of
bridges you want in the Number box.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 327

 • Constant Spacing – Select this option to
place bridges at a specific distance apart
from each other on each Profile pass.
If you select this option, type the distance
you want between bridges, about the centre
of each bridge, in the Distance box.
Now type the minimum number of bridges
that you want on each Profile pass,
irrespective of the distance you have set
between them, in the Min. Number box.
6. Click on the Create Bridges button
to add the bridging.
Each bridge is blue with a control point at each
end.
Any existing bridges on the Profile toolpath are
deleted and replaced according to the options
you have selected.
7. Click on the Close button to return to
the Assistant’s Home page.

Editing Bridging
You can edit the bridging that you have added to a
Profiling toolpath in several ways. You can:
• Insert new bridges.
• Delete an individual or all existing bridges.
• Change the length of individual or all existing
bridges.
• Move bridges into a new position on the Profile
toolpath.

Inserting a Bridge
You can add an individual bridge to any place in the
Profile toolpath. To do so:
1. Click on the Profile toolpath to select it.
The selected Profile toolpath is dark red and
surrounded by a bounding box.

328 • Machining Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 2. Click on the Create Bridges button in the
Toolpaths area of the Assistant’s Home
page to display the Bridging page in the
Assistant window.
3. Move the cursor over the point in the
Profiling toolpath where you want to insert the
centre point of the new bridge.

4. Press the I key on your keyboard to insert

the new bridge.
The new bridge is the same length and thickness
as the other bridges on the Profile toolpath.

Deleting Bridges
You can delete any or all of the bridges added to a
Profiling toolpath. To do so:
1. Click on the Profile toolpath to select it.
The selected Profile toolpath is dark red and
surrounded by a bounding box.
2. Click on the Create Bridges button in the
Toolpaths area of the Assistant’s Home
page to display the Bridging page in the
Assistant window.
3. Move the cursor over the bridge that you
want to remove.

The cursor changes to a .

4. Delete the bridge by using either of these
methods:

• Press the D key on your keyboard.

You must have clicked at least once in the
2D View window before you can use this
method.
• Double-click on the bridge itself.
If you want to delete all bridging that has previously been
added to the Profile toolpath:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 329

 1. Click on the Delete All Bridges button
on the Bridging page.

Changing the Length of a Bridge

You can change the length of an individual bridge added
to a Profile toolpath. To do so:
1. Click on the Profile toolpath to select it.
The selected Profile toolpath is dark red and
surrounded by a bounding box.
2. Click on the Create Bridges button in the
Toolpaths area of the Assistant’s Home
page to display the Bridging page in the
Assistant window.
For details, see 3. Zoom in on the bridge that you want to extend
“Zoom In” in the
ArtCAM 2D Layout or reduce, then click on its centre point to
chapter. select it.

The bridge is blue with a control point at each

end of it.

4. Click and drag either of the control points to set

the length of the bridge.
The new length of the bridge appears in the
Bridge Length box on the Bridging page.
If you want all bridges in the Profile toolpath to share the
new length that you have set:
1. Click on the Update All Bridges button
on the Bridging page.

Moving a Bridge
You can change the position of an individual bridge on a
Profile toolpath. To do so:
1. Click on the Profile toolpath to select it.

330 • Machining Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 The selected Profile toolpath is dark red and
surrounded by a bounding box.
2. Click on the Create Bridges button in the
Toolpaths area of the Assistant’s Home
page to display the Bridging page in the
Assistant window.
3. Zoom in on the bridge that you want to move,
then click on its centre point to select it.
For details, see “Zoom In” in the ArtCAM 2D
Layout chapter.
The bridge is blue with a control point at each
end of it.

4. Click and drag on the centre point to move

the bridge along the Profile toolpath to the
position you want.

Setting the Profile Machining Order

When machining a Profile toolpath that is made up of
several segments, you can set the order in which each of
these segments is machined.
1. Click on the Profile toolpath to select it.
The Profile toolpath is red, surrounded by a
bounding box.
For example, selecting the Profile toolpath
around the Profile vector text appears as
follows:

2. Click on the Set Profile Machining Order

button in the Toolpaths area of the
Assistant’s Home page to display the
Toolpath Ordering page.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 331

 Each of the segments within the selected Profile
toolpath is numbered.
In our example, the Profile vector text appears
as follows:

3. Click on each of the segments in the Profile

toolpath in turn to set the order in which they
are machined.
The position of each selected segment in the
overall machining order is displayed in the
Segment Position box as you click on it.
In our example, if we click on the profile pass
inside of the central cavity of the letter o in the
Profile vector text first, it is numbered as 1:

4. Click on the Close button to return to

the Assistant’s Home page.

Resetting the Machining Order

You can correct any mistakes you make when selecting
the order in which you want to machine the segments:

332 • Machining Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 1. Click on the Reset Count button .
2. Click on the segment that you want to set as the
first to be machined.
3. Continue to click on each segment in the order
you want to machine them until each segment in
the Profile toolpath is numbered accordingly.

Manipulating the Machining Order

You can manipulate the order in which the segments are
machined in a selected Profile toolpath by using the
options in the Segment Ordering area of the
Toolpath Ordering page:
• Click on the Order segments from start
radio button to machine the numbered
segments in sequential order.
• Click on the Order segments from end
radio button to machine the numbered
segments in reverse order.

Adjusting the Machining Parameters

You can adjust the machining parameters for CNC
machine tools in ArtCAM 2D as follows:
• When creating a toolpath strategy, in the
toolpath strategy’s page. For example, the
Profiling page.
• After creating a toolpath strategy, using the
Toolpath Manager.
Note: This method You can also change the tool’s default machining
should only be used parameters stored in the Tool Groups Database. For
before selecting a details, see “Editing a Tool” on page 357.
toolpath.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 333

 Adjusting Machining Parameters
When Creating a Toolpath
You can change the machining parameters of the CNC
machine tool used to machine a model, when creating a
toolpath strategy.
To change the machining parameters of a CNC machine
tool:
1. With the toolpath strategy page displayed in the
Assistant window, display the machining
parameters of the selected tool.
To do this, click on the arrow in the tool area
of the page.
For example, if you have selected a 3mm End
Mill tool for a Profile toolpath, the tool area of
the Profiling page looks like this:

2. You can type new values in the appropriate

boxes:
• If you want to change the stepover value of
the selected tool, type a value in the
Stepover box.
The Stepover value defines the distance
between adjacent machining passes.

334 • Machining Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 • If you want to change the maximum cutting
depth of the selected tool, type a value in the
Max.Depth box.
This value generates multiple machining
passes.
• If you want to change the feed rate of the
selected tool, type a value in the Feed Rate
box.
The Feed Rate value defines the rate at
which the tool moves in relation to the block
of material.
• If you want to change the plunge rate of the
selected tool, type a value in the Plunge
Rate box.
The Plunge Rate value defines the rate at
which the tool moves in the Z direction and
plunges into the block of material.
• If you want to change the rotational speed of
the spindle, type a value in the Spindle box.
The spindle is the part of the machine tool
that rotates during operation. On a mill it
holds the tool in position. On a lathe it holds
the block of material.
• If you want to give the selected tool a
number, click on the Tool Number list box
and then on the number you want to give to
the tool.
This number should correspond with the
position of the tool in the CNC machine’s
tool changer.

Adjusting Machining Parameters

in a Created Toolpath
When you have created a toolpath strategy, you can
adjust the machining parameters, except for the Max.
Depth and the Stepover.
In addition, you can amend toolpath parameters such as
the Home Position and the Safe Z level.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 335

 You can adjust many of the machining parameters and
the toolpath parameters using the Toolpath Manager:
1. Click on the Toolpath Manager tab
to display the Toolpath Manager.
2. Click on the tool in the Toolpaths area that
you want to change the machining parameters
for.
The tool is highlighted in blue.
3. Click on the Edit Parameters button
to display the machining
parameters for the selected tool.
For example, if you selected an End Mill 3mm
tool when creating a Profile toolpath, the
Parameters area looks like this:

4. You can change the machining parameters in

this area as described in “Adjusting Machining
Parameters When Creating a Toolpath” on page
334. In addition, you can amend:
• The tool’s name.
• The height at which the cutting tool makes
rapid moves between toolpath segments, or
Safe Z level.
• The Home Position of the tool.

336 • Machining Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 • The comment about the toolpath.
5. Click on the Apply button .

Simulating Toolpaths
Once you have created a toolpath, you can then simulate
it in order to visualise the machining passes.
A toolpath simulation is a more informative display of the
toolpath than that offered by the sequence of dark red
lines displayed in the 2D View window.
You can simulate an individual toolpath or toolpath
group. A toolpath group is a toolpath that requires the use
of more than one machining tool. For example, a
Bevelled Carving toolpath uses both a Carving tool and a
Profiling tool.
To simulate a toolpath:
1. Click on the Toolpath Manager tab
to view a list of the toolpaths set up.
2. Click on the toolpath in the Toolpaths area to
select it.
The selected toolpath is highlighted in blue.
3. Make sure that the machining parameters of the
tool listed in the Parameters area are correct.
If not:
• Click on the Edit Parameters button
to display all parameter boxes.
• Type the correct machining parameters in
the appropriate boxes.
• Click on the Apply button .
4. Make sure that the Draw option in the
Toolpath Simulation area of the Toolpath
Manager is turned on .
5. Click on the Simulate Toolpath(s) button
in the Toolpath Simulation area of the
Toolpath Manager to produce a

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 337

 representation of the toolpath and the machined
vector object(s) in the 3D View window.
Note: If you want to change the 3D View, see “3D
View Manipulation” in the ArtCAM 2D Layout chapter.

Tip: You can also simulate a toolpath by clicking on the

toolpath to select it, then selecting Simulate Toolpath
from the menu displayed when you right click.

You can simulate a toolpath group if you:

1. Click on any part of the toolpath group that you
want to simulate.
A bounding box surrounds the selected
toolpath.
2. Click on the Toolpaths option in the Main
menu bar to display the Toolpaths menu.
3. Click on the Simulate Toolpath option to
produce a representation of the toolpath group
and the machined vector object(s) in the 3D
View window.

Tip: You can also simulate a toolpath group by clicking

on any part of the toolpath group to select it, then
selecting Simulate Toolpath Group from the menu
displayed when you right click.

Viewing a Toolpath
You can view a toolpath you have created in both the 2D
View and 3D View windows. A toolpath is displayed as

338 • Machining Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 a sequence of dark red lines in the 2D View window, and
a series of multi-coloured lines in the 3D View window.
The colour in which a toolpath is displayed within the 3D
View window shows the movement the selected tool will
make when machining the vector object.
The following example shows a toolpath simulation as
seen along the Y-axis:

Rapid and Plunge Moves

The selected tool leaves the Home position, moves to the
Safe Z level, then above and across the material surface
until it reaches the point of entry. This movement is
known as a Rapid move, and a blue line marks this.
The tool cuts into the material surface at its Plunge rate.
A cyan line marks plunge moves.
Once the cutting is complete, the tool retracts from the
block of material to the Safe Z level and then moves
above and across the material surface until it reaches the
Home position. This is another Rapid move marked by
a blue line.
Rapid and Plunge moves are drawn in a toolpath
simulation by default.
If a toolpath simulation contains several Rapid and
Plunge moves, the lines representing the movement of
the selected tool in the 3D View window can become
obscured. For this reason, you may want to hide them
from view.
You can hide the Rapid and Plunge moves as follows:
1. From the Main menu bar, select Toolpaths >
Toolpath Drawing > Draw Rapid and
Plunge Moves to turn off this option:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 339

 The Rapid and Plunge moves are no longer
visible in the 3D View window.
To show the Rapid and Plunge moves again:
1. From the Main menu bar, select Toolpaths >
Toolpath Drawing > Draw Rapid and
Plunge Moves to turn on this option:

Cutting Direction
A machining strategy is displayed as a sequence of lines:

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 All dark red lines in a toolpath simulation indicate the
position of the tip of the selected tool as it cuts away at
the block of material. A dark red line does not indicate
the cutting direction of a tool.
The cutting direction is hidden in a toolpath simulation
by default. To view the cutting direction within a toolpath
simulation:
1. From the Main menu bar, select Toolpaths >
Toolpath Drawing > Show Cutting
Direction to turn on this option:

All dark red lines within the toolpath simulation

turn green or dark blue, showing the cutting
direction.
A dark blue line indicates a clockwise cutting
direction.
A green line indicates an anti-clockwise cutting
direction.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 341

 To hide the cutting direction again:
1. From the Main menu bar, select Toolpaths >
Toolpath Drawing > Show Cutting
Direction to turn off this option:

All green or dark blue lines within the toolpath

simulation turn dark red.

Hiding a Toolpath
You can hide most toolpaths shown in either the 2D
View or 3D View window.
You cannot hide the following toolpaths in the 2D View
window:
• V-Bit Carving along A Centreline.
• 3D Bevelled Carving – Centreline.
• Drilling.
To hide a toolpath shown in the 2D View window:
1. Click on the toolpath that you want to hide to
select it.
A bounding box surrounds the selected
toolpath.
2. Right-click to display the Toolpaths menu,
then select the Hide Preview option:

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 You can hide a toolpath shown in the 3D View window
if you:
1. Double right-click on the 3D View window to
display a list of toolpath viewing options.
For example, the list of toolpath viewing
options for a Bevelled Carving toolpath would
look something like this:

2. Click on the toolpath that you want to hide.

The toolpath that you want to hide is no longer
checked on.
Note: You can hide any of the toolpaths shown in the
3D View window using the Objects To Draw button
in the 3D View toolbar. For details, see “Objects To
Draw” in the ArtCAM 2D Layout chapter.

Restoring a Hidden Toolpath

You can restore a toolpath that has been hidden in either
the 2D View or 3D View window.
To restore a toolpath hidden in the 2D View window:
1. Click on the Toolpath Manager tab
to display the Toolpath Manager.
2. Make sure that the 2D View window is open.
If the 3D View button is in the toolbar
above the design window, the 2D View is open.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 343

 If not, click on the 2D View button to open
it.
3. Click on the Show In 2D box next to the
relevant toolpath to turn it on .
The toolpath appears in the 2D View window
in dark red.
To restore a toolpath hidden in the 3D View window:
1. Double right-click on the 3D View window to
display a list of toolpath viewing options.
For example, the list of toolpath viewing
options for a Bevelled Carving toolpath would
look something like this:

2. Click on the toolpath that you want to restore.

The toolpath that you want to restore is now
turned on.
Note: You can restore any of the toolpaths hidden in the
3D View window using the Objects To Draw button
in the 3D View toolbar. For details, see “Objects To
Draw” in the ArtCAM 2D Layout chapter.

Editing a Toolpath
You can change the settings in any toolpath that you have
created.
To edit the settings in a toolpath:
1. Click on the toolpath that you want to edit.
The selected toolpath is dark red and
surrounded by a bounding box.
2. Right-click to display the Toolpath menu:

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 3. Click on the Edit Toolpath option to display
the toolpath’s details in the Assistant window.
For example, if you select a Profile toolpath and then the
Edit Toolpath option from the Toolpath menu, the
Profiling page is displayed in the Assistant window.
You can also edit toolpath settings using the Toolpath
Manager:
1. Click on the Toolpath Manager tab to display
the Toolpath Manager .
2. Click on the toolpath that you want to edit in the
Toolpaths area.
The selected toolpath is highlighted in blue.
3. Click on the Edit Toolpath button in the
Toolpath Operations area to display the
page for the toolpath in the Assistant window.
For example, if you select a Profile toolpath and then the
Edit Toolpath option from the Toolpath menu, the
Profiling page is displayed in the Assistant window.
Note: You can also edit toolpath settings by double-
clicking on the toolpath shown in the 2D View window
or double-clicking on the toolpath name in the
Toolpaths area of the Toolpath Manager.

Saving a Toolpath
When you have created a toolpath, it can be saved in two
formats:
• If you want to use the toolpath in a different
ArtCAM 2D model, you can save them as a

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 345

 model file (*.art). For details, see “Saving a
Model” in the Working with Models chapter.
• If you want to export the toolpath data to a CNC
machine tool, follow the steps below.
To save the toolpath data as a machine-specific file:
1. Click on the Toolpath Manager tab
to display the Toolpath Manager.
2. Click on the Save Toolpaths button in
the Toolpath Operations area to open the
Save Toolpaths dialog box:

3. Click on the toolpaths in the Calculated

toolpaths window that you want to save as
one machine-specific toolpath file.
To select more than one toolpath, hold the Shift
key on your keyboard as you click on
each of the toolpaths.
4. Click on the right button to transfer your
selected toolpaths to the Toolpaths to save
to a single file window.
5. Make sure that the toolpaths are in the correct
order.
You can change the order of the toolpaths by
clicking on the up and down buttons in
the right of the dialog box. Each click, up or
down, moves the selected toolpath one position
in the list.

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 If you want to alter the selection, you can click
on the black left button to transfer files back
to the Calculated toolpaths window or click
on the red left button to transfer all files
back to the Calculated toolpaths window.
6. Click on the Machine output file is
formatted for list box, then click on the
relevant machine format to select it.
7. Click on the Save button to open the
Save As dialog box:

8. Click on the Save In list box and select the

directory you want to save the machine-specific
toolpath file in.
9. Type the file name that you have chosen to use
for the machine-specific toolpath in the File
name box.
10. Click on the Save as type list box, then click
on the file type you want to save your machine-
specific toolpath as.
11. Click on the Save button to close the
Save As dialog box.
12. Click on the Close button in the Save
Toolpaths dialog box.
Tip: You can also save a selected toolpath in the 2D
View window. First, select the toolpath. Right-click to
display the Toolpaths menu, then select Save
Toolpaths to display the Save Toolpaths dialog box.
Finally, follow steps 3 to 11 in this section.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 347

 Note: You can also save a toolpath from either the 2D
View or the 3D View in the same way. From the Main
menu bar, select Toolpaths, then Save Toolpaths to
display the Save Toolpaths dialog box. Finally, follow
steps 3 to 11 in this section.

Deleting Toolpaths
You can delete a toolpath or toolpath group that you have
created.
A toolpath group is a toolpath that requires the use of
more than one machining tool. For example, a Bevelled
Carving toolpath uses both a Carving tool and a Profiling
tool.

Deleting a Toolpath
There are three ways to delete a toolpath.
To delete a toolpath from the 2D View window:
1. Click on the toolpath that you want to delete to
select it.
A bounding box surrounds the toolpath.
For example, if you want to delete the Profiling
part of a Bevelled Carving toolpath it would
appear something like this when selected:

348 • Machining Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 2. Right-click to display the Toolpaths menu,
then click on the Delete Toolpath option:

In our example, you can see that the Profile part

of a Bevelled Carving toolpath is now deleted:

Tip: You can also delete a toolpath from the 2D View

window if you click on the toolpath to select it, press the
Delete key on your keyboard, then click on the Yes
button in the message box displayed.

Note: You can also delete a toolpath using the

Toolpath Manager by clicking on the toolpath in the
Toolpaths area to select it and then on the Delete
Toolpath button in the Toolpath Operations
area.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 349

 Deleting a Toolpath Group
A toolpath group is a toolpath that requires the use of
more than one machining tool. For example, a Bevelled
Carving toolpath uses a both Carving tool and a Profiling
tool.
To delete a toolpath group with the 2D View window
open:
1. Click on a toolpath that is part of a toolpath
group to select it.
A bounding box surrounds the toolpath.
For example, if you want to delete a Bevelled
Carving toolpath, and select the Profiling part of
the toolpath, the toolpath looks like this when
selected:

2. Right-click to display the Toolpaths menu,

then click on the Delete Toolpath Group
option:

350 • Machining Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 In our example, you can see that both the
Profiling and Carving parts of the Bevelled
Carving toolpath group are now deleted:

Tip: You can also delete a toolpath group from the 2D

View window if you hold the Shift key on your
keyboard and click on the toolpaths, press the Delete
key on your keyboard, then click on the Yes button
in the message box displayed.

Note: You can also delete a toolpath using the

Toolpath Manager by clicking on the toolpath group
in the Toolpaths area to select it, for example Bevelled
Carving, and then on the Delete Toolpath button
in the Toolpath Operations area.

Using a Toolpath Summary

You can review, print or save details of all of the
toolpaths that you have created in order to machine a
model.
The Toolpath Summary Information box displays
the following details:
• Job dimensions used.
• Toolpaths used.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 351

 • Machining parameters of all tools used.
A total machining cycle time is also calculated based on
the Feed Rates of the various tools that you had selected
when creating a toolpath.
To display the Toolpath Summary Information box
for the open model:
1. Click on the Toolpath Summary button
in the Toolpaths area of the Assistant’s
Home page:

You can use the scrollbar at the right of the

Toolpath Summary Information box to
view all of the toolpath information.
Tip: You can also display the Toolpath Summary
Information box by selecting Toolpaths > Toolpath
Summary from the Main menu bar.

Calculating the Estimated Machining

Time
You can amend the machining parameters to estimate the
actual machining time for a job.
To calculate the estimated machining time of a toolpath:

352 • Machining Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 1. Click on the Toolpath Summary button
in the Toolpaths area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Toolpath
Summary Information box:

2. Type a value in the Rapid Rate box.

You should confirm the maximum Rapid Rate
of your CNC machine by consulting the
manufacturer’s manual.
If the manual contains no reference to the
maximum Rapid Rate, use the maximum Feed
Rate value.
3. Click on the list box and select the appropriate
unit of speed.
4. Type a value in the Time Scale Factor box.
The default time scale factor is 4. You should
experiment with finding the appropriate value
for your machining.
5. Click on the Calculate button .
The new estimated machining time is displayed
in the Machining Time area of the page.
6. Click on the Close button to close the
Toolpath Summary Information box.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 353

 Printing a Toolpath Summary
To print a toolpath summary:
1. Click on the Toolpath Summary button
in the Toolpaths area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Toolpath
Summary Information box:

2. Click on the Print button to display the

Print dialog box.
3. Click on the Name list box and click on the
appropriate printer to select it.
4. Click on the OK button to print the
toolpath summary at the selected printer.
5. Click on the Close button to close the
Toolpath Summary Information box.

Saving a Toolpath Summary

To save a toolpath summary:
1. Click on the Toolpath Summary button
in the Toolpaths area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Toolpath
Summary Information box.

354 • Machining Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 2. Click on the Save button to display the
Save Toolpath Summary dialog box.
3. Click on the Save In list box and select the
directory where you want to save the toolpath
summary.
4. Type the file name you want to use for the
toolpath summary in the File name box.
5. Click on the Save button .
The file is saved as a text file (*.txt).
6. Click on the Close button to close the
Toolpath Summary Information box.

Using the Tool Groups Database

When creating a toolpath in ArtCAM 2D, it is necessary
to select a tool with which to machine your 2D model. A
broad range of predefined tools can be selected from the
Tool Groups Database.
The Tool Groups Database allows you to:
• Select a tool to machine a toolpath with.
For details, see “Using Toolpath Strategies” on
page 261.
• Define and add your own tools.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 355

 • Edit the default machining parameters of any
selected tool.
• Group tools together, as you prefer.

Adding a Tool
To define and add a new tool to the Tool Groups
Database:
1. Click on the Tool Database button in the
Toolpaths area of the Assistant’s Home
page to open the Tool Groups Database:

2. Click on the Add Tool button to

open the Add Tool dialog box:

3. Type a name for the tool in the Description

box.
4. Click on the Tool Type list box, and then click
to select one of the tool types listed.

356 • Machining Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 An image representing the selected Tool Type
appears in the middle of the dialog box.
Boxes to type in the necessary machining
parameters of the tool appear in the right side of
the dialog box.
5. Click on the Tool Units list box, and then click
to select the appropriate unit of measurement.
6. Click on the Rate Units list box, and then
click to select the appropriate unit of speed.
7. Type any relevant information concerning the
practical use of the tool you are adding to the
Tool Groups Database in the Notes box.
8. Type a value in all of the boxes relating to the
machining parameters of the tool, such as
Diameter, Stepover and Flute Length.
9. Click on the OK button to add the tool
to the Tool Groups Database.
The tool you have added appears in the Tools
and Groups window, and its details appear in
the Tool / Group Description area of the
Tool Groups Database.
10. Click on the tool in the Tools and Groups
window and drag it into the appropriate group
in the Tool Groups Database.
Note: For details on how to set up your own group, see
“Adding a Tool Group” on page 361.

11. Click on the OK button to close the

Tool Groups Database.

Editing a Tool
You can edit the geometry and the default machining
parameters of any tool selected from the Tool Groups
Database:
• Description – If you want to change the name
of the selected tool, type it in this box.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 357

 • Tool Number – If you want to change the
number of the selected tool to correspond with
its position on a tool changer, type it in this box.
• Tool Units – If you want to change the unit of
measurement for the selected tool, click on the
Tool Units list box and then on the unit of
measurement you want to use.
• Rate Units – If you want to change the unit of
speed for the selected tool, click on the Rate
Units list box and then on the unit of speed you
want to use.
• Notes – If you want to make any notes about
the selected tool, type them in this box.
• Diameter – If you want to change the diameter
of the selected tool, type it in this box.
• Max Cut Depth – If you want to change the
maximum cut depth of the selected tool, type it
in this box.
• Stepover – If you want to change the distance
between adjacent machining passes made by the
selected tool, type it in this box.
You can also adjust the stepover of the selected
tool using the % of box and buttons:
• Each click on increases the stepover of
the selected tool by 1% of the value shown
in the Diameter box.
• Each click on decreases the stepover of
the selected tool by 1% of the value shown
in the Diameter box.
• Type a value in the % of box to define the
Stepover as a percentage of the tool
Diameter.
• Spindle Speed – If you want to change the
rotational speed of the spindle, type it in this
box.
• Feed Rate – If you want to change the rate at
which the tool moves in relation to the block of
material, type it in this box.

358 • Machining Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 • Plunge Rate – If you want to change the rate
at which the tool moves in the Z direction and
plunges into the block of material, type it in this
box.
Editing the geometry of certain types of tools in the Tool
Groups Database requires more data than with other
tools. The additional information required includes:
• Included Angle – To change the angle of a V-
Bit tool, type it in this box.
• Half Angle – To change the angle of a Conical
tool, type it in this box.
• Flat Radius – To change the radius of a flat
Conical tool, type it in this box.
• Tip Radius – To change the radius of a
rounded Conical tool
To edit the machining parameters or the geometry of a
tool in the Tool Groups Database:
1. Click on the Tool Database button in the
Toolpaths area of the Assistant’s Home
page to open the Tool Groups Database:

2. Click on the tool in the Tools and Groups

window that you want to edit.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 359

 Note: Before editing the machining parameters of a
selected tool, you may want to make a copy of it. To do
so, click on the tool in the Tools and Groups window,
and then clicking on the Copy button . A copy
of the tool appears directly beneath the original in the
Tools and Groups window.

The selected tool is highlighted in blue.

The machining parameters of the selected tool
appear in the Tool / Group Description area
of the dialog box.
3. Click on the Edit button to open the
Edit Tool dialog box:

4. Type a new value in the appropriate box, or

click on the appropriate list box option, to
change the geometry and/or machining
parameters of the selected tool.
5. Click on the OK button to save these
new values and to return to the Tool Groups
Database.
The tool you have edited appears in the Tools
and Groups window, and the information that
you had typed in the Edit Tool dialog box
appears in the Tool / Group Description
area of the Tool Groups Database.
6. Click on the OK button to close the
Tool Groups Database.

360 • Machining Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 Deleting a Tool
You can delete any tool listed in the Tool Groups
Database:
1. Click on the tool that you want to delete in the
Tools and Groups window.
The selected tool is highlighted in blue.
2. Click on the Delete button .

Adding a Tool Group

Within the Tool Groups Database, tools are organised
into various groups for ease of reference. When you
define and add a selection of tools to the Tool Groups
Database, you may want to create a new group for
them.
To create a new tool group:
1. Click on the Tool Database button in the
Toolpaths area of the Assistant’s Home
page to open the Tool Groups Database:

2. Click on the Add Group button .

A folder named New Group appears in the
Tools and Groups window:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Machining Models • 361

 3. Click on the New Group folder, and type the
name for the tool group you want to add to the
database.
You can now click and drag any tools listed in
the Tools and Groups window into the tool
group folder that you have created.
4. Click on the OK button to close the
Tool Groups Database.

362 • Machining Models ArtCAM 2D User Guide

ArtTrace

Using ArtTrace
ArtTrace is an application tool that allows you to convert
bitmap images into vector objects that you can use in
ArtCAM 2D. ArtTrace works especially well with bitmap
images that contain only a few colours. You can also use
ArtTrace to edit bitmap images.
The features within ArtTrace fall into the following
categories:
• Importing a bitmap image.
• Setting the size and origin for the bitmap image.
• Working with the colours within the bitmap
image.
• Editing the bitmap image.
• Converting the bitmap image into vector
objects.
• Exporting the vector objects to ArtCAM 2D.

Importing a Bitmap Image

You can import the following types of image files as
bitmaps into ArtTrace: *.bmp, *.tif, *.gif, *.jpg and
*.jpeg.
To start ArtTrace and import a bitmap image:
1. Click on the Trace Bitmap button in the
File area of the Assistant’s Home page to

ArtCAM 2D User Guide ArtTrace • 363

 open the Select Bitmap Image To Trace
dialog box:

2. Click on the Look In list box and find the

image file that you want to edit.
3. Once you have found the image file, click on
the file name listed in the main window of the
Select Bitmap Image To Trace dialog box.
The file name you have clicked on appears in
the File Name box.
4. Click on the Open button to start ArtTrace and
import the image file.
The Loading image box appears while the
image file you have selected is loading into
ArtTrace:

Setting the Image Size and Origin

You can change the size of a bitmap image imported into
ArtTrace. In resizing the bitmap image, you also set the
size of the vector objects that can be created from it.
There are three ways to set the size of a bitmap image
imported into ArtTrace, all of which are done via the Set
Model Size dialog box.

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 Note: Changing the size of the image does not alter the
resolution of the original bitmap you imported into
ArtTrace. The image retains the same number of pixels
as the original.

You can also set the origin of an imported bitmap image

to any one of five pre-set positions in ArtTrace. Each of
these positions determines where the vector objects you
create from the bitmap image are positioned in the model
when you export them to ArtCAM 2D.
To set the image size and origin:

1. Click on the Set Model Size button to

open the Set Model Size dialog box:

2. Click on the appropriate Method radio button

:
• Image Size - This option sets the size of
the whole image using the values in the
Height and Width boxes.
You need only type a value in one of the
boxes for ArtTrace to calculate the value in
the other and maintain the height/width ratio
of the image.
• Rectangle Size – This option sets the size
of the bitmap image to the size of the
bounding box that surrounds all selected
vector objects in the 2D View.
This option is greyed-out if a vector object is
not selected.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide ArtTrace • 365

 Note: You can only use the Rectangle Size option
when you have converted an imported bitmap image into
vector objects. For details, see “Converting a Bitmap into
Vectors” on page 379.

• Scanned d.p.i. - This option sets the size

of a pixel in the image. Type the number of
dots per inch that you want ArtTrace to use
in the d.p.i. box to calculate the size of the
image.
3. Click on the centre or any of the four corners of
the Origin box to define the X-axis zero and Y-
axis zero origin.
The Origin icon appears in the position you
have clicked on.
4. Make sure that the Units option is set
according to those you are working in, either
millimetres or inches.
5. Click on the OK button to close the
Set Model Size dialog box and set your image
size and origin.

Working with Colours

When you have imported a bitmap image, all of the
colours within the bitmap image are displayed in the
Colour Palette below the 2D View window.
ArtTrace allows you to manipulate the colours within an
imported bitmap image. You can:
• Select the Primary and Secondary colours from
the Colour Palette.
• Reduce the number of colours in an imported
bitmap image.
• Link colours within the bitmap image.
• Merge colours within the bitmap image.
• Mark the edge of the bitmap image.
• Thicken colours within the bitmap image.

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 • Thin colours within the bitmap image.
• Add colours to the Colour Palette.

Selecting the Primary and

Secondary Colours
The Primary Colour defines the shape of the vector
objects you can create from an imported bitmap image.
ArtTrace creates vector objects around the outline of all
areas in the Primary Colour and around those colours
linked to it.
The Primary Colour also controls the colour of the Paint
tool in ArtTrace. You can use the Secondary Colour only
when painting and editing a bitmap image.
You can select the Primary and Secondary colours from
the Colour Palette:

To select the Primary Colour:

1. Left-click on the colour in the Colour Palette
you want to use.
To select the Secondary Colour:
1. Right-click on the colour in the Colour Palette
you want to use.

Reducing Colours
You can reduce the number of colours in an imported
bitmap image. ArtTrace takes colours of a similar shade
and produces an averaged colour. This averaged colour is
displayed in the Colour Palette in place of the original
colours.
Note: Colour reduction should be done as an iterative
process so that the number of colours can be minimised
whilst preserving the detail in the original bitmap image.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide ArtTrace • 367

 To reduce the number of colours in an imported bitmap
image:

1. Click on the Reduce Colours button to

open the Reduce Number Of Colours In
Image dialog box.

2. Type a value in the New Maximum Number

Of Colours For Image box.
The default value is one less than the value in
the greyed-out Current Number Of Colours
In Image box.
3. Click on the OK button to close the
Reduce Number Of Colours In Image
dialog box and reduce the number of colours in
the bitmap image to that specified in Step 2.
Warning: Reducing the number of colours in a bitmap
image resets all colour links and attributes. If you want
to keep any new or linked colours you have created, do
not click on the OK button .

Colour Merging
You can merge all the pixels in the Secondary Colour in a
bitmap image with the Primary Colour. The Secondary
Colour is then removed from the Colour Palette.
To do so:
1. Left-click on the colour within the Colour
Palette you want to select as the Primary
Colour.
2. Right-click on the colour within the Colour
Palette you want to select as the Secondary
Colour.

368 • ArtTrace ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 3. Click on the Merge Colours button to merge
the current Secondary Colour with current the
Primary Colour.
The Secondary Colour is removed from the Colour
Palette altogether.

Colour Linking
You can both link and unlink colours within the ArtTrace
Colour Palette.
There are three ways you can link a colour in the Colour
Palette with the current Primary Colour:
• Click on the Link/Unlink button to link the
Secondary Colour to the Primary Colour.
• Click on the Link/Unlink icon in the
Colour Palette to link the Secondary Colour to
the Primary Colour.
• Double right-click on the colour you want to
link to the Primary Colour.
You can see that colours are linked to the Primary Colour
when they appear in the Colour Palette as follows:

When colours are linked to the Primary Colour, they are

displayed in the Primary Colour in the image.

Linking All Colours

By clicking on the Link All Colours button , you
can simultaneously link all colours currently in the
Colour Palette, other than the Secondary Colour, to the
Primary Colour.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide ArtTrace • 369

 Tip: Depending on how many colours there are you want
to link, it may be quicker to use the Link All Colours
method of linking and then use the Link/Unlink button
to unlink the individual colours that you do not want.

Unlinking All Colours

By clicking on the Unlink All Colours button , you
can unlink all colours currently linked in the Colour
Palette.

Edge Marking
You can paint a line around the edge of a bitmap image.
Marking the outline of a bitmap image in this way means
that its shape is clearly defined when it is converted into
vector objects.
To mark the edges:
1. Click on the colour in the Colour Palette around
which you want to paint a line.
This colour is now set as the Primary Colour.
2. Right-click on the colour in the Colour Palette
that you want to use for painting the outline.
This colour is now set as the Secondary Colour.
3. Click on the Colour option from the Main
Menu toolbar:

4. Click on the Mark Edge option from the

Colour menu.

370 • ArtTrace ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 A line is painted in the Secondary Colour
around all regions in the bitmap image made up
of the Primary Colour.

Colour Thinning
Thinning reduces the width of a colour band, replacing
the inner area with the Secondary Colour. If you select
the full thinning process, this reduces the area to a single
pixel band around the original area’s edge.
Rather than manually changing an area of colour pixel by
pixel, you can automatically thin areas in the Primary
Colour.
To thin areas in the Primary Colour:
1. Left-click on the colour within the Colour
Palette you want to select as the Primary
Colour.
2. Click on the Colour option from the Main
Menu toolbar:

3. Click on the Thin… option from the Colour

menu to open the Thin Primary Colour
dialog box:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide ArtTrace • 371

 4. Click on the appropriate radio button to
select the method of thinning:
• Keep processing until finished - This
option continues to thin all regions in the
Primary Colour until they are reduced to a
width of one pixel.
• Limit number of passes to - This option
sets a limit on the number of thinning passes
according to the value you type in the box.
Each pass converts one edge pixel in the
Primary Colour to the Secondary Colour.
5. Click on the OK button to close the
Thin Primary Colour dialog box and to thin
all regions in the Primary Colour.
The Working box is displayed while ArtTrace
completes the colour thinning process:

The region of removed pixels is marked in the

current Secondary Colour. If you do not need to
mark this region, ensure that the Secondary
Colour is the same as the background colour in
the bitmap image before colour thinning.

Colour Thickening
Thickening increases the width of a colour band,
replacing the inner area with the Secondary Colour.
Rather than manually changing an area of colour pixel by
pixel, you can automatically thicken areas in the Primary
Colour.
To thicken areas in the Primary Colour:

372 • ArtTrace ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 1. Left-click on the colour within the Colour
Palette you want to select as the Primary
Colour.
2. Right-click on the colour within the Colour
Palette you want to select as the Secondary
Colour.
3. Click on the Colour option from the Main
Menu toolbar:

4. Click on the Thicken… option from the

Colour menu to open the Thicken Colour
dialog box:

5. Type a value in the Brush Diameter box.

Warning: The brush diameter should be an odd
number. Even numbers are automatically rounded up to
an odd number.

6. Click on the OK button to close the

Thicken Colour dialog box and to apply a
round brush of the diameter specified in Step 4
in the current Secondary Colour to each pixel in
the current Primary Colour.
The Working box is displayed while ArtTrace
completes the colour thickening process:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide ArtTrace • 373

 The original pixels in the bitmap image remain
in the Primary Colour, while the thickened
regions appear in the Secondary Colour. If you
do not need this distinction, ensure that both the
Primary and Secondary Colours are identical
before colour thickening.

Adding Colours
You can increase the range of colours within the Colour
Palette in ArtTrace. You can add Basic Colours and/or
create your own Custom Colours for you to paint in.
To add to the ArtTrace Colour Palette:

1. Click on the Add Colour button to open

the Color dialog box:

2. Select a colour that you want to add to the

Colour palette:
To select a Basic colour:
• Click on a colour in the Basic colors
chart.

374 • ArtTrace ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 To select a Custom colour:
• Click on an approximate colour in the
Colour Matrix, then click and drag the slider
at the right of the dialog box to adjust the
colour’s attributes.
• Type values in the Hue, Sat (Saturation)
and Lum (Luminosity) or the Red, Green
and Blue boxes to specify the colour.
The colour appears in the Color|Solid area of
the Color dialog box.
3. Click on the Add To Custom Colors button
to add the colour you
have defined to the Custom Colours palette.
4. Click on the OK button to close the
Color dialog box.
If you try to add a colour that is already in the
Colour Palette is already contained there, the
following message box appears:

If so, click on the OK button to close the

message box and repeat Steps 1 to 4, to add a
different colour.
The Basic and/or Custom Colours that you have selected
appear in the ArtTrace Colour Palette.

Editing a Bitmap Image

You can use ArtTrace to amend an imported bitmap
image using the painting tools and the Colour Palette.
The painting tools in ArtTrace are a brush and a flood-fill
tool.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide ArtTrace • 375

 Using the Paint Brush
The paint brush allows you to paint in the Primary and
Secondary Colours, as shown on the left of the Colour
Palette below the 2D View window:

You can use the paint brush in ArtTrace to modify any

bitmap image imported into ArtTrace:

1. Click on the Paint button to enter Paint

mode.
2. Set the brush size and shape, as described in
“Setting the Brush Size and Shape” on page
376.
3. Move the cursor over the area of the bitmap
image you want to edit, then click and drag to
paint in the Primary Colour.
If you want to paint in the Secondary Colour,
hold the Shift key on your keyboard,
then click and drag.
4. Click on the Select Vectors button to exit
from Paint mode.

Setting the Brush Size and Shape

You can change the size and shape of the brush used for
painting at any time with the Brush Size tool displayed
on the right of ArtTrace’s main toolbar:

You can change between a square and a circle brush tip

simply by clicking on the Brush Shape, as shown above.

376 • ArtTrace ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 You can increase the number of pixels that make up the
Brush Size by clicking and dragging the slider upwards,
or decrease them by clicking and dragging the slider
downwards.
Alternatively, you can use the Brush Tip controls to set
the brush properties:
1. Click on the arrow of the Brush Size tool to
open the Brush Tip controls:

2. Select or create an appropriate brush.

If you want to select a Standard brush:
• Click on the appropriate square or circle
icon.
If you want to create a Custom brush:
• Click on the appropriate radio button to
select the shape of the brush.
• Type an appropriate number of pixels in the
Size box, or drag the slider to set the size of
the brush.
3. Click on the OK button to set the size
and shape of the brush and close the Brush Tip
controls.
You are now ready to paint with your new brush.

Selective Painting
You can use the Paint Selective tool to paint with your
brush in the current Primary Colour in all areas of a
bitmap image, other than those which are made up of the
current Secondary Colour.
To do so:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide ArtTrace • 377

 1. Click on the Paint Selective button .
2. Left-click on the colour within the Colour
Palette you want to select as the Primary
Colour.
3. Right-click on the colour within the Colour
Palette you want to select as the Secondary
Colour.

4. Move the cursor over the area you want

to paint over, then click and drag.
All areas of the bitmap image that are of the Secondary
Colour are replaced with the Primary Colour.

Flood Filling
You can replace areas of any selected colour with the
current Primary Colour, using the Flood Fill tool.
To do so:

1. Click on the Pick Colour button .

2. Move the dropper over the colour you want

to select as the Primary Colour and click.

3. Click on the Flood Fill button , then move

the roller over the colour you want to flood
fill with the Primary Colour and click.
The block of colour you click is replaced with
the Primary Colour.

Selective Flood Filling

You can flood fill all areas differently coloured with the
current Primary Colour, other than those areas made up
of the current Secondary Colour, using the Flood Fill
Selective tool.
To do so:

1. Click on the Flood Fill Selective button .

378 • ArtTrace ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 2. Left-click on the colour within the Colour
Palette you want to select as the Primary
Colour.
3. Right-click on the colour within the Colour
Palette you want to select as the Secondary
Colour.

4. Move the roller over the bitmap image and

click to flood fill it with the Primary Colour.
The only colours that remain in the bitmap
image are the Primary and Secondary Colours.
Note: If colours are surrounded by the Secondary Colour
they are not filled in the Primary Colour. You must flood
fill these areas separately.

Converting a Bitmap into Vectors

You can use ArtTrace to convert any imported bitmap
image into vector objects. ArtTrace creates vector objects
around the outline of all areas in the Primary Colour,
together with those colours that are linked to the Primary
Colour. For further details about colour linking, see
“Colour Linking” on page 369.
When converting a bitmap image into vector objects, the
vector objects follow the pixellated outline of the bitmap.
You can smooth the outline of the vector objects by
replacing the linear spans within them with bezier curves.
For details, see “Smoothing Vector Objects” in the
Working with Vectors chapter.
To convert a bitmap image into vector objects:

1. Click on the Bitmap to Vector button to

display the Vectors From Bitmap dialog
box:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide ArtTrace • 379

 2. Click on the Method radio button you want
to use:
• Spline all points - This option fits bezier
curve spans between all points (nodes) in the
vector objects.
• Keep lines longer than pixels -
This option fits bezier curve spans between
all points (nodes), except where the number
of consecutive pixels you type in the box
form a straight line.
3. Type a value in the Pixels box to set the
Tolerance. This sets how closely the bezier
curve spans follow the points (nodes) in the
vector objects.
4. Click on the OK button to close the
Vectors From Bitmap dialog box and
produce the vector objects in the 2D View
window.
The Working box appears while ArtTrace
converts the bitmap image into vector objects:

380 • ArtTrace ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 5. Click on the Bitmap On/Off button to hide
the original bitmap image, allowing you to see
the new vector objects clearly.

Editing the Vector Objects

You can use two simple tools to edit the shape of the
vector objects before exporting them to ArtCAM 2D:
• Smooth Vectors
• Create Polyline

Smooth Vectors
You can smooth vector objects by converting each of
their linear and/or arc spans to bezier curve spans.
To smooth the vector objects:
1. Click and drag to form a bounding box around
the vector objects you want to smooth.
The selected vector objects turn magenta.
2. Click on the Smooth Vectors button to
open the Smooth Vectors dialog box:

3. Click on the Method radio button you want

to use:
• Spline all points - This option fits bezier
curve spans between all points (nodes) in the
vector objects.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide ArtTrace • 381

 • Keep lines longer than pixels -
This option fits bezier curve spans between
all points (nodes), except where the number
of consecutive pixels you type in the box
form a straight line.
4. Type a value in the Pixels box to set the
Tolerance. This sets how closely the bezier
curve spans follow the points (nodes) in the
vector objects.
5. Click on the OK button to close the
Smooth Vectors dialog box and smooth the
vector objects in the 2D View window.

Create Polyline
You can use the Create Polyline button to create a
polyline, which is a vector object of one or more linear
spans joined together by points (nodes). This tool allows
you to draw vector objects in ArtTrace, and edit the
vector objects that are created by converting a bitmap
image.
For further information on using the Create Polyline
button , see “Drawing using Vectors” in the Working
with Vectors chapter.

Exporting Vectors to ArtCAM 2D

When you have created vector objects from an imported
image in ArtTrace, you can use one of two methods to
transfer vector objects to an open model in ArtCAM 2D:
• Copy and Paste.
• Export and Import as a data file.
To copy and paste the vector objects:
1. Click and drag to create a bounding box around
the vector objects you want to use in ArtCAM
2D.
The vector objects are surrounded by a
bounding box and turn magenta.

382 • ArtTrace ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 2. Click on the Copy button to copy the new
vector objects to the ArtCAM 2D clipboard.
3. In ArtCAM 2D, click anywhere in the 2D View
window.
4. Click on the Paste button in the File area
of the Assistant’s Home page to paste the new
vector objects in the model.
To export the vector objects as data, and then import
them in ArtCAM 2D:
1. Click and drag to create a bounding box around
the vector object you want to use in ArtCAM
2D.
The vector object is surrounded by a bounding
box and turns magenta.
2. Click on the File option in the Main menu bar
to display the File menu.

3. Click on the Export… option to display the

Vector Export dialog box.

4. Click on the Save In list box and select the

directory you want to save the vector object in.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide ArtTrace • 383

 5. Type the file name you want to use for the
vector object in the File name box.
6. Click on the Save button .
7. In ArtCAM 2D, click anywhere in the 2D View
window.
8. Click on the Import EPS, DXF or AI Files
button in the File area of the Assistant’s
Home page to display the Vector Import
dialog box.

9. Click on the Look In list box and select the

directory you had saved the vector data (*.eps)
in.
10. Click on the file name listed in the main
window of the Vector Import dialog box.
11. Click on the Open button to import
the vector data into the model.
The imported vector object is magenta and positioned in
the model according to the Origin selected in the Set
Model Size dialog box. For details, see “Setting the
Image Size and Origin” on page 364.
You can change the position of the vector objects in
ArtCAM 2D if required. For details, see “Moving
Vectors” in the Working with Vectors chapter.

384 • ArtTrace ArtCAM 2D User Guide

ArtSpool

Using ArtSpool
ArtSpool is an application tool you can use to send
toolpath data to your CNC machine tool through a serial
cable.
For details about saving toolpaths which can then be
transferred to your CNC machine tool using ArtSpool,
see “Saving a Toolpath” in the Machining Models
chapter.
ArtSpool runs as a background task in Windows 95, 98,
2000 or NT4+. This means that instead of your computer
being inaccessible for hours at a time processing and
sending data to your CNC machine tool, you can continue
to use it while ArtSpool handles your machining jobs.
Warning: ArtSpool is an unsupported application tool
supplied free of charge. Delcam plc cannot guarantee that
it will be suitable for sending toolpath files to your CNC
control system. Please contact your CNC machine tool
and software resellers if you experience difficulties.

Setting Up ArtSpool
Before you can send toolpath data to your CNC machine
tool, it is necessary to configure ArtSpool. You must set
up:
• The communication settings that ArtSpool uses
to send data to the CNC machine tool.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide ArtSpool • 385

 • A spool directory where toolpath data is stored,
ready to be transferred.

Selecting the Communication

Settings
You must configure ArtSpool to communicate with your
CNC machine tool before you can use it to send toolpath
data.
Warning: When you configure ArtSpool, it is important
that you consult your CNC machine manual or suppliers
to ensure the correct communications settings are used.

1. Click on Start > Programs > ArtCAM 2D >

ArtSpool to start ArtSpool:

2. Click on Options in the Main menu bar:

3. Click on Configure Communications to

open the Communications Settings dialog
box:

386 • ArtSpool ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 4. Select the correct settings for your CNC
machine:
• Type the name of your CNC machine in the
Machine box.
• Select the protocol used by your CNC
machine in the Protocol list box.
• Select the serial port to which your CNC
machine is connected in the Serial Port list
box.
• Select the Baud rate of your CNC machine
in the Baud Rate list box.
• Select the number of bits for your CNC
machine in the Data Bits list box.
• Select the parity bit for your CNC machine
in the Parity list box.
• Select the number of stop bits for your CNC
machine in the Stop Bits list box.
• Select how you want to control the flow of
data from the spool directory in the Flow
Control list box.
Select Hardware [RTS/CTS] to use your
CNC machine tool and Software [XOn
XOff] to use ArtSpool.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide ArtSpool • 387

 5. Click on the OK button to save your
settings and close the Communications
Settings dialog box.

Selecting the Spool Directory

Before you can use ArtSpool to send toolpath data to
your CNC machine tool, you must select the folder to
which you want to spool your toolpath files. This is
where the toolpath data is stored, before being sent to
your CNC machine tool.
To select the Spool Directory:
1. Click on Start > Programs > ArtCAM 2D >
ArtSpool to start ArtSpool:

2. Click on Options in the Main menu bar:

3. Click on Select Spool Directory to open the

Browse for Folder dialog box:

388 • ArtSpool ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 4. Click on the folder to which you want to spool
your toolpath files.
5. Click on the OK button to select the
spool directory and close the Browse for
Folder dialog box.

Sending Toolpath Files

When you have selected a spool directory and set your
communication settings you can send toolpath files to
your CNC machine tool, using ArtSpool.
To send a toolpath file to your CNC machine tool:
1. Click on Start > Programs > ArtCAM 2D >
ArtSpool to start ArtSpool:

ArtCAM 2D User Guide ArtSpool • 389

 2. If you want to send a toolpath file from the
Spool Directory to your CNC machine:
• Click on the file in the Files in Spool
directory window to select it.
The name, size and location of the toolpath
file appear in the File Details area of
ArtSpool.
If you want to send a toolpath file to your CNC
machine from another directory:
• In the Main menu bar, click on File >
Select Other File to open the Open
dialog box:

• Click on the toolpath file that you want to

send to your CNC machine tool.
The name of the selected toolpath file
appears in the File name box.
• Click on the Open button to close
the Open dialog box and load the toolpath
file into ArtSpool.
The name, size and location of the toolpath
file appear in the File Details area of
ArtSpool.
3. Click on the Start Transfer button
to open the Transmit Data message box:

390 • ArtSpool ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 4. Click on the Yes button to send the
selected toolpath file to your CNC machine
tool.
It takes a few minutes to transmit the data,
during which a progress bar is shown in the
Status area:

When the toolpath data has been sent to your

CNC machine tool, TX complete is displayed on
the ArtSpool title bar.
If you want to stop the transmission of toolpath data to
your CNC machine:
1. Click on the Stop Transfer button
to open the Stop Transmission message box:

2. Click on the Yes button .

Deleting Toolpath Files

You can delete any of the files contained in the Spool
Directory using ArtSpool. You should only delete a
toolpath file from the Spool Directory after it has been
sent to your CNC machine tool and you no longer require
it for machining a model.
To delete a file from the Spool Directory:
1. Click on the file in the Files in Spool
directory window to select it.

ArtCAM 2D User Guide ArtSpool • 391

 2. Click on the Delete File button .

392 • ArtSpool ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 colours to the ArtTrace colour
palette 374
points to a vector object 156
tool groups to the database 361
Index tools to the database 356
Adjusting Machining Parameters 334,
335
Aligning
vector text 210
vectors 232
Arcs
converting span to an arc 159
fitting to vector objects 200
2 ArtCAM 2D
2D Area Clearance 270 2D View window 9
2D View Assistant 5, 6
guidelines 17 compatible bitmap files 4
rulers 12 compatible vector files 3, 142, 143
scrolling 11 correcting an action 144
snap grid 13 exporting vector files 143
toolbar 9 finding out about 2
importing vector files 142
3 Main menu bar 6
overview 1
3D Bevelled Carving 278 screen layout 5
3D View shutting down 137
isometric view 23 ArtSpool
objects to draw 24 communication settings 386
origin 23 deleting toolpath files 391
pan view 22 selecting the spool directory 388
scale to fit 23 sending toolpath files 389
toolbar 21 setting up 385
twiddle tool 22 using 385
view along X 23 ArtTrace
view along Y 23 adding colours to the Colour Palette
view along Z 23 374
zoom 22 colour thickening 372
zoom out 23 converting a bitmap into vectors 379
editing vector objects 381
A exporting vector objects to ArtCAM
2D 382
Adding
flood filling 378
bridging 327
importing a bitmap image 363

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Index • 393

 linking colours 369 deleting 329
marking the edge of a bitmap 370 editing 328
merging colours 368 inserting 328
paint brush 376 moving 330
reducing colours in a bitmap 367
selecting the Primary colour 367 C
selecting the Secondary colour 367
selective flood filling 378 Calculating the Machining Time 352
selective painting 377 Centreline Carving 275
setting paint brush shape 376 Centreline Engraving 290
setting paint brush size 376 Centring vectors 234
setting the origin in a bitmap image Changing
364 start point 166
setting the size of a bitmap image the length of a bridge 330
364 Circle
smoothing vector objects 381 creating 172
thinning colours 371 editing 173
using 363 Climb Milling 260
Assistant Closing vectors 246
File area 6, 138 Colour
Group Merge Join area 7 adding to the Colour Palette 374
Home page 6 marking the edge 370
overview 6 merging colours 368
Position Size Align area 7 primary colour 367
Toolpaths area 7 reducing the number of colours 367
Vector Editing area 7, 147, 167 secondary colour 367
thickening 372
thinning 371
B Colour Linking
Bevelled Carving 278 creating colour links 369
Bitmaps linking all colours 369
compared to vectors 2 linking colours 369
converting into vectors 379 unlinking all colours 370
definition 4 Communication Settings 386
files compatible with ArtCAM 2D 4 Conventional Milling 259
files compatible with ArtTrace 363 Converting
marking the edge 370 bitmap into vectors 379
reducing the number of colours 367 span to a bezier curve 154
setting the origin 364 span to a line 158
setting the size 364 span to an arc 159
Bridges Copy 189
adding to a Profile toolpath 327 block 190
changing the length 330 rotate 191

394 • Index ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 vector objects to clipboard in Toolpaths 344
ArtTrace 382 tools in the database 357
Correcting an action 144 Vector Editing tools 147
Creating vector nodes 162
circle 172 vector objects 188
drill holes 322 vector objects in ArtTrace 381
ellipse 176 vector spans 154
hole 300 vector text in text creation mode 208
offset vector 193 Ellipse
pocket 294 creating 176
polygon 180 editing 177
rectangle 168 Engraving 284
star 184 Exporting
stepped hole 310 vector files from ArtCAM 2D 143
stepped insert 318 vector objects from ArtTrace 382
stepped pocket 304
straight insert 314 F
vector text 204
Cut direction 259 Fitting arcs to vector objects 200
Cutting Direction 340 Flood Fill 378
Flood Fill Selective 378
Formatting created vector text 213
D Formatting vector text 210
Deleting Formatting vector text in creation
bridges 329 mode 212
points 165
spans 161 G
Drill Holes 322
Grouped vectors 256
Grouping vectors 248
E Guidelines
Editing 2D View 17
bitmaps 375 inserting a parallel guide 18
bridges 328 positioning 18
circle 173
created vector text 208 H
ellipse 177
model dimensions 141 Hiding a Toolpath 342
polygon 181 Hole 300
polyline 151, 188
rectangle 170 I
square 170
Importing
star 186
bitmap files 363

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Index • 395

 vector files 142 importing vector files 142
Information about ArtCAM 2D 2 machining 259
Inlay Wizard 293 mirroring 144
hole 300 opening 139
pocket 294 opening existing 135
stepped hole 310 opening the last model 136
stepped insert 318 rotating 145
stepped pocket 304 saving 140
straight insert 314 Moving
Inserting bridges 328 bridges 330
vectors 224
J
Joining vectors 244
N
Nesting vectors 237
L Node editing 162

Linking All Colours 369

Linking Colours 369
O
Locking vectors into position 198 Objects to Draw 24
Offsetting vectors 193
M Origin 23
Overview
Machining a model 259 ArtCAM 2D 1
Machining Order 331 Assistant 6
manipulating 333
resetting 332
Machining Parameters
P
adjusting in a created toolpath 335 Paint Brush
adjusting when creating toolpath 334 selective painting 377
Manipulating the Machining Order setting the shape 376
333 setting the size 376
Measuring vectors 219 using 376
Merging vectors 240 Pan View 22
Mirror Paste
model 144 vector 190
vectors 228, 230 vector objects along a curve 202
Mirroring vectors 228 Peck Drilling 322
Models Plunge moves 339
closing 136 Pocket 294
creating 133 Point
creating new 139 changing the start point 166
editing dimensions 141 deleting 165
exporting vector files 143 inserting 156

396 • Index ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 smoothing 163 Scaling vectors 222
Polygon Secondary colour 367
creating 180 Selecting vector text 206
creating from a polyline 150 Selecting vectors 151
editing 181 Selective Painting 377
Polyline Setup Job Dimensions 133
closing to create a polygon 150 Shearing vectors 226
completing 149 Shutting down 137
creating 148 Simulating a Toolpath 337
editing 151, 188 Simulating a Toolpath Group 338
Primary Colour 367 Smooth
Printing a Toolpath Summary 354 point 163
Profiling 262 vector objects 195, 382
Properties of a vector 253 vector objects in ArtTrace 381
Smoothing vector objects 195, 381
R Snap Grid
displaying 13
Rapid moves 339 hiding 14
Rectangle snapping 16
creating 168 snapping to objects 20
editing 170 spacing 15
Redo 144 Span
Resetting the Machining Order 332 converting to a bezier curve 154
Resizing grouped vectors 251 converting to a line 158
Resizing vectors 222 converting to an arc 159
Restoring a Hidden Toolpath 343 deleting 161
Restoring the original shape of a editing 154
smoothed vector 198 inserting a point 156
Reversing direction of geometry 254 Spool Directory 388
Rotate Square
copy 191 creating 168
model 145 editing 170
vectors 225 Star
Rotating vectors 225 creating 184
Rulers editing 186
2D View 12 Start Point
changing 166
S Stepped Hole 310
Stepped Insert 318
Saving
Stepped Pocket 304
model 140
Straight Insert 314
toolpath 345
toolpath summary 354

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Index • 397

T Toolpaths
buttons 7
Thickening Colours 372 Trace Bitmap 363
Thinning Colours 371 Transforming vectors 220
Tool Groups Database 355 Twiddle Tool 22
adding a tool group 361
adding tools 356
deleting a tool 361
U
editing a tool 357 Undo 144
Toolpath Manager 8 Ungrouped vectors 254
Toolpath Summary 351 Unlinking Colours 370
calculating machining time 352 Unlocking vectors 199
printing 354
saving 354 V
Toolpaths
2D area clearance 270 V-bit Carving 275
adding bridging 327 Vectors
bevelled carving 278 aligning 232
centreline carving 275 block copy 190
centreline engraving 290 centring 234
cut direction 259 closed 152
cutting direction 340 closing 246
deleting a group 350 compared to bitmaps 2
deleting in ArtCAM 2D 348 copying 189
deleting in ArtSpool 391 creating text 204
drill holes 322 definition 3, 147
editing 344 editing 154, 188
engraving 284 editing text 207, 208
hiding 342 editing tools 147
inlay wizard 293 exporting from ArtCAM 2D 143
machining parameters 333 exporting from ArtTrace 382
profiling 262 files compatible with ArtCAM 2D 3,
rapid and plunge moves 339 142, 143
restoring hidden 343 fitting arcs 200
saving 345 formatting text 210, 212, 213
sending files from ArtSpool 389 grouped 152, 256
setting the Profile machining order grouping 248
331 importing into ArtCAM 2D 142
simulating 337 joining 244
summary 351 locking 198
tool groups database 355 measuring 219
Toolpath Manager 8 merging 240
viewing 338 mirroring 228, 230

398 • Index ArtCAM 2D User Guide

 moving 153, 224 Zoom Out
nesting 237 2D View 10
offsetting 193 3D view 23
open 152 Zoom Previous 11
overlapping 152
pasting 189
pasting along a curve 202
resizing 222
resizing grouped 251
reversing direction of geometry 254
rotate copy 191
rotating 225
scaling 222
selecting 151, 152
selecting multiple 152
selecting text 206
shearing 226
smoothing 195
smoothing in ArtTrace 381
transforming 220
ungrouped 152, 254
unlocking 198
viewing the properties 253
wrapping text round a curve 214
Viewing a Toolpath 338

W
Window
2D view 9
3D view 9
cascade 9
tile 9
zoom in 10
Window Fit 11
Wrapping text round a curve 214

Z
Zoom In
2D view 10
3D view 22
Zoom Objects 11

ArtCAM 2D User Guide Index • 399

400 • Index ArtCAM 2D User Guide