Feature-Based Machining(FBM) is an automated programming function that eliminates manual data entry by reading in the copious design intent information that is embedded in solid models by CAD programs.

(Some CAD package features, such as SolidWorks’ Holes Wizard, provide explicit tooling data as well.) Then the FBM CAM program or an FBM module
within a conventional CAM program rapidly analyzes this informa-tion and creates a complete machining strategy, typically without any additional intervention on the part of the programmer.

The first FBM applications were limited in their ability to fine-tune toolpaths after they had been generated or to incorporate them into more complex programs for parts that also included non-planar and
sculptured features. However, shops that did little else than machine 2-D planar components profited greatly from the speed and simplicity and dramatic time savings produced by FBM programs.

Today, a number of programs offer various degrees of FBM programming flexibility, ranging from those that only perform FBM to full-featured programs that integrate FBM with a wide range of capabilities including surface models, and wire frame and advanced high-speed manufacturing toolpaths.

Today’s FBM applies to more than just 2-D manufacturing. Some FBM packages automatically analyze solid models and identify all of the planar zones within it. Then the package automatically brings up each of these zones in a work coordinate system so that the programmer can apply automatically-generated FBM strategies to them one after another in rapid succession, saving hour after hour of programming time.
Additional capabilities included in a recent FBM offering include:

1) Machining pockets using 2-D, high-speed roughing, rest mill and finish operations.

2) Creating a separate finish toolpath for floors and walls.
Automatically identifying when facing or external machining is required and allowing the programmer to activate or deactivate it.

3) Automatically creating drilled, tapped, counterbore and countersink holes.

4) Automatically performing spot drilling and pre-drilling based on user-controlled settings.

5) Providing advanced controls to drill blind, through, deep-drilling, co-axial and split holes.

6) Selecting the appropriate tools for all operations—either from the user’s preferred tools list or from user-specified libraries or creating tools as needed.

Advanced FBM programming has expanded beyond simple click-and-go ease to provide toolpaths that are fully associative and editable after creation. This gives users the broad flexibility to make changes at any time, and ensures that parts are cut to the shop or end user’s most exacting standards.