SolidCAM for Operators
Powerful Tools for Your CNC Operators
The CAM and CNC staff of most medium and large-size machine shops work in three main levels:
Level I: the CAM-Programmer
CAM Programmers are technologists that determine the strategy for machining a part on the shop floor. Usually well acquainted with CNC technology and capabilities, a CAM Programmer uses SolidCAM to define the machining process, using a variety of machine operations. At each stage, the Programmer can use the SolidCAM simulation capabilities to check the operations, edit specific operations and machining parameters and then produce a G-Code file.
Level II: Setup-Staff & experienced CNC-Operators
CNC Operators normally get the G-Code file together with a list of tools, a setup sheet showing the part clamping and locations of work offsets, but do not have direct access to the CAM-System. So by having the SolidCAM for Operators Editor, they have access to the CAM part data, including tool table data and set up, do a simulation and perform a dry run at the CNC. They can also edit basic parameters, like speeds and feeds, using the SolidCAM for Operators Editor.
Level III: CNC-Operators
For CNC operators with no deeper technical understanding and responsibilities, the Shop Floor Simulator makes it easy to understand the setup, what tools are used and to perform a simulation of all the machining operations before doing the actual machining.
In many machine shops, the tasks of CAM programming and CNC operation are often worlds apart. CNC operators require a deep understanding of setup, tooling, and simulation. When minor G-Code adjustments are needed, like altering cutting conditions or tool offsets, operators should have the flexibility to make these changes swiftly. However, this process often involves back-and-forth with CAM programmers, leading to workflow delays.
That is why we created SolidCAM for Operators – to simplify shop floor processes and empower experienced CNC operators to grasp CAM data easily and, if necessary, make quick edits to machining parameters.
In a typical CNC machine shop using SolidCAM, you’ll find seats for CAM programmers and SolidCAM for Operators Editor/Simulator Seats. The choice of using the SolidCAM for Operators Editor or SolidCAM for Operators Simulator is made by the shop floor manager. It depends on whether they want to provide CNC operators with simulation capabilities only or grant them additional editing capabilities. For more information, refer to our detailed comparison table.
SolidCAM for Operators Tools – the Benefits
- Minimize Reliance on ‘Dry-Runs’: With SolidCAM for Operators, step-through each move in the G-Code program, reducing setup time and the need to ‘dry-run’ programs on the CNC.
- Preventing CNC Machine and Tool Damage: Operators see full simulations so they can prevent unexpected crashes or collisions.
- Working Efficiently: Operators can make minor adjustments, without needing to rely on the CAM Programmer, who is already busy programming the next part.
- Full Setup Picture: SolidCAM for Operators enables the Operator to see all details of each operation, including Tools, Setup Definition, Stock Clamping, Work Offsets, and full simulation of the process.
Introduction to SolidCAM for Operators
Editor Mode
Simulator Mode
SolidCAM for Operators Simulator has no CAM part editing capabilities at all. It enables the CNC Operator to see the Tool table list with full details, to understand the clamping, the work offsets, and to see the simulation of the CAM Part, before running the G-Code on the CNC machine.
Feature Comparison – Editor/Editor LT vs. Simulator
| EDITOR | EDITOR LT | SIMULATOR | |
| View the model, including Fixtures and location of work offsets | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| View the tool table in full detail | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| View all machining operations, data and defined geometries | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| View Cutting conditions for each operation | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Fully simulate the machining process | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Change the Tool data and cutting conditions | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Calculate operations | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Regenerate G-Code after edits | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Change the operations data | ✓ | ||
| Change the setup definition | ✓ |