vocabulary:
  name: Autodesk PowerMill Vocabulary
  description: >-
    Key terminology and concepts used in Autodesk PowerMill, a leading
    Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software for 5-axis CNC machining
    used in aerospace, automotive, mold and die, and precision engineering.
  version: "1.0"
  terms:

    - term: Toolpath
      definition: >-
        A programmed sequence of coordinates and motions that define the path
        a cutting tool follows to machine a workpiece from raw material into
        a finished part.
      tags:
        - CAM
        - CNC
        - Core

    - term: 5-Axis Machining
      definition: >-
        A CNC machining technique where the cutting tool moves simultaneously
        along five axes (X, Y, Z plus two rotational axes), enabling machining
        of complex sculptured surfaces, undercuts, and deep cavities in a
        single setup.
      tags:
        - CAM
        - CNC
        - Machining

    - term: High-Speed Machining (HSM)
      definition: >-
        A set of toolpath strategies optimized for high cutting speeds and
        feed rates using techniques such as trochoidal milling, constant
        Z passes, and smooth curvature paths to maximize material removal
        while protecting the cutting tool.
      tags:
        - CAM
        - Machining
        - Strategy

    - term: Post-Processor
      definition: >-
        A software module that translates generic toolpath data from a CAM
        system into machine-specific G-code or NC programs tailored to the
        capabilities and syntax of a particular CNC machine controller.
      tags:
        - CAM
        - CNC
        - Output

    - term: G-Code
      definition: >-
        The standard numerical control programming language used to instruct
        CNC machines. G-code specifies coordinates, feed rates, spindle
        speeds, and machine functions. It is the primary output of a
        post-processor in a CAM workflow.
      tags:
        - CNC
        - Output
        - Standard

    - term: Macro Script
      definition: >-
        A recorded or hand-written sequence of PowerMill commands that
        automates repetitive CAM programming tasks, batch processes
        manufacturing data, and standardizes toolpath generation across
        families of similar parts.
      tags:
        - Automation
        - Scripting
        - API

    - term: Python API
      definition: >-
        The Python-based programming interface for PowerMill that enables
        programmatic control of toolpath creation, machine simulation, and
        manufacturing data management. Allows integration with broader
        manufacturing software ecosystems.
      tags:
        - Automation
        - Python
        - API

    - term: COM/NET API
      definition: >-
        The Component Object Model and .NET object model interface that
        allows external Windows applications, ERP systems, and Manufacturing
        Execution Systems to drive PowerMill programmatically for toolpath
        generation and manufacturing data access.
      tags:
        - Automation
        - Integration
        - API

    - term: Machine Simulation
      definition: >-
        A full kinematics virtual simulation of the CNC machine tool that
        verifies toolpaths, detects collisions between the tool, holder,
        fixture, and workpiece, and validates the NC program before any
        physical cutting takes place.
      tags:
        - Verification
        - Simulation
        - Safety

    - term: Rest Machining
      definition: >-
        A toolpath strategy that identifies and machines only the material
        left behind (rest material) by a previous larger cutting tool,
        allowing progressive refinement of a part with increasingly
        smaller tools.
      tags:
        - CAM
        - Strategy
        - Machining

    - term: Trochoidal Milling
      definition: >-
        A high-speed machining strategy where the tool follows a circular
        arc path superimposed on a linear feed, maintaining consistent
        chip load and tool engagement angle to enable aggressive material
        removal without overloading the cutter.
      tags:
        - Strategy
        - HSM
        - Machining

    - term: Workpiece
      definition: >-
        The raw material block or near-net-shape part that is being machined
        in the CNC manufacturing process. The workpiece geometry defines the
        stock material from which toolpaths remove material.
      tags:
        - Manufacturing
        - Core
        - Geometry

    - term: Manufacturing Execution System (MES)
      definition: >-
        A computerized system used to track, document, and control the
        transformation of raw materials into finished goods on the shop
        floor. PowerMill integrates with MES via .NET/COM APIs to automate
        production scheduling and NC program management.
      tags:
        - Integration
        - Manufacturing
        - Enterprise