[camtd]

Is it possible to unroll a parasolid?
ex.
A cylinder with pockets, slots and bosses. To a flat parasolid that reflects the same depths and heights.

[cadcam]

you can only un-roll the wire frame from a solid not the solid it self. Why are you trying to un-roll if I may ask?

[camtd]

The tools to machine a flat offer so much more control for roughing and finshing.

How I am thinking is this.
1) recieve the model
2) cut a hole in the center of the model
3) unroll the model
4) rough, contour, 3d mill
5) use Mastercam option to wrap around a diameter.

The 4 axis or 5 axis tools do not offer as much control to rough a part out as say a simple 2 axis pocket routine. Do they?

As we know wireframe is limited also when it comes to multi depth and 3d.

My instructor only reads the books and help files.

[cadcam]

You are correct about the roughing of the 4th and 5th axis. most of the time I use 4th postioning for the forth stuff and then use the standard surface roughing options. as for the 5th there is the same type of thought but use 3+2 postioning.

But the first question of is there a way to unroll a solid still stands as a No for now.
Do you have sample that is giving you an issue?