About This Manual
This manual describes the operation of XyzPilot, a 2D CAD/CAM system designed to support CNC 3-axis milling workflows.
XyzPilot enables shop-floor personnel to create and modify 2D geometry, define machining features, and prepare CAM data for CNC milling operations. The software is intended for use by machine setters, operators, and manufacturing personnel who require a simple and efficient method of creating geometry and generating machining information directly from the shop floor.
This manual provides guidance on:
- Getting started with XyzPilot
- User interface navigation
- Creating and editing 2D geometry
- Preparing machining information
- Generating CAM data
- Workflow best practices
- Common operating procedures
- Troubleshooting and support information
Document Conventions
This section explains the conventions, terminology, symbols, and formatting used throughout this manual.
Command Syntax
XyzPilot uses an APT-style command structure to define geometry and machining operations. Command examples are shown in a fixed format:
Geometry References
XyzPilot automatically assigns reference numbers to geometry entities when they are created:
| Prefix | Geometry Type | Example |
|---|---|---|
P | Point | P1, P2, P3… |
L | Line | L0, L1, L2… |
C | Circle | C0, C1, C2… |
A | Arc | A0, A1, A2… |
L | Chamfer (as Line) | L0, L1… (chamfers are represented as lines) |
BL | Broken Line | BL0, BL1… |
Parameters and Variables
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
X | X-axis coordinate |
Y | Y-axis coordinate |
Z | Z-axis coordinate or depth value |
A | Angle value |
D | Distance or offset value |
N | Quantity or count |
R | Radius value |
Direction Selectors
Some commands require a solution direction when multiple valid results are available:
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
XLARGE | Uses the solution with the largest X value |
XSMALL | Uses the solution with the smallest X value |
YLARGE | Uses the solution with the largest Y value |
YSMALL | Uses the solution with the smallest Y value |
Units of Measurement
| Item | Unit |
|---|---|
| Length | Millimetres (mm) |
| Angles | Degrees (°) |
| Coordinates | Cartesian X, Y, Z |
Coordinate System
XyzPilot uses a standard Cartesian coordinate system:
- Positive X values increase to the right
- Positive Y values increase upward
- Z values represent height, depth, or machining level depending on the operation
Safety Information
General Safety Notice
XyzPilot is a software application used to create geometry and prepare machining information for CNC milling operations. While the software does not directly control machine movement, the data generated by XyzPilot may be used in CNC programs that control machine tools.
Users are responsible for verifying all geometry, dimensions, machining parameters, and generated CNC programs before machining a component.
Operator Responsibility
The operator is responsible for:
- Verifying all geometry before creating toolpaths
- Confirming dimensions and coordinate locations
- Checking tools, work offsets, and workholding arrangements
- Reviewing all generated machining information before production use
- Performing safe machine setup procedures
- Following all company safety policies and machine manufacturer's instructions
Verify CNC Programs Before Machining
- Review all geometry and machining features
- Verify cutter selection and tool dimensions
- Confirm workpiece zero locations
- Check programmed depths and coordinate positions
- Simulate or prove-out the program where possible
- Perform a safe test run before production machining
Machine Safety
Always follow established CNC machine safety procedures. Before operating a machine:
- Ensure guards and safety devices are functioning correctly
- Confirm that tools are securely fitted
- Verify workpieces are clamped securely
- Remove adjustment tools and gauges from the machine envelope
- Wear approved personal protective equipment (PPE)
Training Requirements
XyzPilot is intended for use by personnel familiar with basic CAD principles, CNC milling processes, technical drawings, coordinate systems, and safe machine operation. Additional training may be required before operating CNC machinery.
Getting Started
XyzPilot is a web-based application — no local software installation is required. Access is provided through a supported web browser and a network connection.
Before You Begin
- You have a valid XyzPilot username and password
- Your computer meets the minimum system requirements
- You are connected to the network required to reach the XyzPilot server
- A supported web browser is installed and up to date
Logging In
Starting XyzPilot
- Open a supported web browser (Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome)
- Enter the XyzPilot web address provided by your system administrator
- Press Enter to open the XyzPilot login page
Logging In
- Enter your Username
- Enter your Password
- Click Log In
If the login details are correct, XyzPilot will open and display the main working interface.
Incorrect Login Details
If an incorrect username or password is entered, an error message will be displayed and access will be denied. Re-enter your credentials and try again. If login problems persist, contact your system administrator.
Logging Out
- Save all work
- Close any open projects if required
- Select Log Out from the user menu
- Close the browser window
User Interface Overview
XyzPilot uses a menu-driven interface based on established APT-style CAD/CAM principles. Rather than typing commands directly, operators select geometry and machining functions from menus, enter values where required, and use visual previews to verify results before committing them.
XyzPilot Workflow
The typical XyzPilot workflow follows this sequence:
- Select a geometry or CAM function
- Select the required geometry entities
- Enter dimensions, angles, offsets, or machining parameters
- Review the transient preview
- Commit the operation
- Verify the resulting geometry
- Continue with CAD creation or CAM preparation
Quick Input Panels
Most geometry creation and editing functions use a dedicated Quick Input panel. These panels provide a simple method of entering parameters without manually typing APT-style command syntax.
| Field | Description |
|---|---|
X | X Coordinate |
Y | Y Coordinate |
Z | Z Coordinate (normally 0) |
P | Point Reference |
L | Line Reference |
C | Circle Reference |
A | Arc Reference |
R | Radius |
D | Distance |
Angle | Angular Value |
Dir | Direction Selection |
Transient Preview
XyzPilot incorporates a transient preview system throughout all geometry creation and editing functions. As parameters are entered, a temporary representation of the resulting geometry is displayed within the graphics canvas. Geometry is not permanently created or modified until the operation is confirmed using Apply or Commit Preview.
CAD Geometry Functions
The CAD Geometry Functions provide the tools required to create, modify, and manage 2D geometry within XyzPilot. The geometry created forms the foundation for all subsequent measurement, editing, and CAM programming operations.
Points
The Points menu contains commands used to create individual points and point patterns. Points may be created using coordinate values, existing geometry, intersections, tangencies, angular positioning, and geometric relationships.
Point — Coordinate
Creates a point at specified X and Y coordinates.
Point — Circle Centre
Creates a point at the centre of an existing circle.
Point — Line/Circle Intersection
Creates a point at the intersection of a line and circle. Use direction selectors (XL, XS, YL, YS) to choose the correct solution.
Point — Delta Offset
Creates a new point by applying X and Y offsets to an existing point.
Point — Angle & Distance
Creates a new point at a specified angle and distance from an existing point.
Point on Arc
Creates a point on an existing arc at a specified angular position.
Tangent Point — Circle / Arc
Creates a point at the tangent location between a circle and an arc. The tangent direction defaults to external unless internal is selected in the Quick Input panel.
Intersect — Line / Arc
Creates a point at the intersection of a line and an arc. Direction selectors determine which intersection solution is used when multiple valid results exist.
Tangent Point — 2 Arcs
Creates a point at the tangent location between two arcs.
Intersect — 2 Arcs
Creates a point at the intersection of two arcs. Direction selectors determine which intersection solution is used when multiple valid results exist.
Lines
Create and modify straight-line geometry using points, angles, parallel relationships, perpendicular relationships, and tangencies.
Line Through Two Points
Parallel Line
Tangent to Circle
Creates a line tangent to a circle. Direction selectors determine which tangent solution is used.
Circles & Arcs
Create circular geometry, arcs, fillets, tangent features, and other curved entities. All circular geometry supports the transient preview system.
Circle by Centre & Radius
Fillet Arc
Creates a fillet arc of specified radius between two intersecting geometry entities. Essential for profile construction and corner blending.
Trim
Trims lines, circles, and arcs to defined boundaries. Use trim to clean up intersecting geometry and create accurate profiles.
User Coordinate System (UCS)
XyzPilot supports temporary User Coordinate System (UCS) transformations. The UCS allows operators to work relative to a translated or rotated coordinate system without permanently modifying existing geometry.
Available UCS Functions
- Set Translation (UCS) — Shift the working origin
- Set Rotation (UCS) — Rotate the working coordinate system
- Set Rotation Center — Define the centre of rotation
- Commit UCS Transform — Permanently apply the transformation
- Reset Transform (UCS) — Return to standard Cartesian system
- Restore Committed — Restore the last committed UCS state