Re: Using solidworks for tool path on Tsugami BW12
You can achieve your goal 1 of 2 ways.
1: as you describe, offset your desired shape by the radius of the tool. this will work fine
2: program the actual geometry, and use Cutter comp. You will have to enter your tool radius in the Tool Geometry and assign the correct T direction. Also make sure you have a lead in/lead out move greater than 1 radius of the tool or you will get a cutter comp error.
#2 is probably the better way, as you can control the size of your shape with cutter comp. you could also program to tool center line as in option 1 and use cutter comp as well, but start with 0 in your Tool Geometry Radius.
Personally, I would program the actual part profile because if the blueprint has a .125 radius, its easier to read the code when you see G3...R.125 instead of G3...R.1562. Also, in general, programming to the blueprint should be done as much as is practical so that the code reflects the features on the blueprint, not made up numbers that compensate for tool width or whatnot. That said, I see a decent number of people compensate for tool centerline.
CNC Product Manager / Training Consultant