Help needed tweaking a toolpath

[rgreever]

When using Aspire to create a simple pocket cut which has multiple step-downs to reach the desired depth, the tool raises back to the safe Z2 plunge move height in between passes. For example, let's say I'm trying to cut a 3/4" pocket in 1/4" passes...After the tool completes the first pass at -1/4" z-height, the tool raises to .2" (my current set Z2 Rapid Z Gaps Above Material) before lowering again to -1/2". How do I adjust my settings so that the ShopBot will directly plunge to the next lower pass without raising to the Z2 height each time? Or do I have to manually alter the G-code? That would suck, as it's 5000+ lines...

I have a job that requires hundreds of small pockets, and having the tool travel back up and down between every pass is a real time-waster...

Thanks in advance!

[Justin G]

I think you may have a lead in or lead out checked. If you do that, it raises to the safe z and ramps /leads in on every new depth. If that's the reason, I know the problem well and lose my mind when I accidentally set it up like that.

[rgreever]

Hmmm...I'll have to take a look at that. I don't think I set it up with ramps/leads, but doesn't hurt to go over it again. When I get back to the shop...
Thanks for your input, Justin

[rgreever]

Welp, that wasn't it
I'm pretty convinced that Vectric's toolpath options are less than to be desired,
especially 3D stuff, like rest machining, 3D roughing, etc...
Most of the time, one has to use a workaround or a gadget or edit the g-code directly to get the desired results.
Not that I'm knocking Vectric all that much. It is a great program for what it is, just needs some refinements here and there