Safe Z and Z proportion

[rob_bell]

For profile cutting I'm often using a technique in which I write part files in which all my cuts are written to a z depth of -1.0". I then am able to tune the actual depth of cut at run-time using the z proportion. It's an easy way to control varying thicknesses of material. If the material is 0.72" then I z proportion to 0.72 and there it is! Onion skin and thru cut passes are very easy this way.

However, the scary part has been that my pull up the Safe Z height is also affected...maybe not so safe anymore.

My recent, solution is to create my own &SAFE_Z which is equal to the system Safe Z divided by the Z proportion. This counter acts the effect of the z proportion with regards to my JZ, &SAFE_Z calls. At the top of my file I write.

&SAFE_Z = %(28) / %(68) ' true safe z with no z proportion

So far this has worked like a charm. My Safe Z is safe again. I am wondering however if any others have either used this trick or have encountered this situation. Also with the exception of the obvious z-proportion == 0 issue is there a reason that doing this is a bad idea?

[Brady Watson]

Rob,
That's a great idea! Thanks for the tip!

-B

[rob_bell]

thanks, just don't ever forget to use the z-proportion when you run the file or your spoilboard will be sorry.

[zeykr]

Very neat idea Rob!

I may try that but knowing my memory, I think my spoilboard will appreciate it if I'll modify a post processor for it to always include your &safez statement and to prompt me to enter the z proportion or at least remind me to check that I've done it.