The Advanced Settings menu in CAPSturn allows users to control how tools approach, retract, and exit from operations.

This guide covers all major options for Tool Approach to Operation, Tool Position After Operation, with illustrations from CAPSturn's interface.

CAPSturn automatically determines safe tool approach and departure. Change these settings only if there's a collision or the default path doesn't meet your requirements.

Tool Approach to Operation

These settings defines how the tool enters the cutting path before beginning a machining operation.

1. The tool moves straight into the cutting path from its current location.
2. Pros: Fastest option minimizes air-cutting time.
3. Cons: Higher collision risk; not recommended in complex or tight geometries.

2. Via Clearance OD

1. Tool first moves to a Clearance Outer Diameter (a predefined safe zone around the part), then into position.
2. Pros: Safer, avoids obstacles, suitable for irregular part geometries.
3. Best for General machining operations.

3. Via Clearance ID

1. Tool first moves to an internal clearance diameter before entering the cutting path.
2. Best for Internal turning or boring operations.

4. Via Clearance OD + Clearance Z

1. Tool moves to a safe OD, then retracts in Z-axis to approach from above.
2. Ideal for Deep or tall parts that need vertical clearance.

5. Via Clearance OD + Clearance ID + Clearance Z

1. Tool takes the safest, multi-step path:
   OD → ID → Z-axis approach to the cut.
2. Best for Precision internal cuts, deep bores, or grooved features.
3. Advantages: Avoids collisions with internal walls; maximum control.

Tool Position After Operation

These settings determines where the tool moves after completing a cut.

1. At Safe Position

1. Tool moves to a safe zone, clear of the part.
2. Best for: Multi-operation setups or tool changes.

2. At Clearance OD / ID

1. Tool retracts to a predefined clearance zone near the part (outer or inner).
2. Pros: Fast transition to the next operation while avoiding collisions.
3. Use when: Quick tool re-entry is required.

Conclusion

CAPSturn’s tool positioning features provide fine-grained control to:

1. Improve machining safety,
2. Shorten operation times,
3. Avoid crashes in tight setups,
4. Handle complex internal geometries with ease.

Recommendation:

1. Use Direct only when confident in tool paths.
2. Prefer Clearance OD/ID or Clearance Z methods for most general and internal operations.