Abstract: A system and method allows visual programming of simultaneous and synchronous machining operations on multi-axis lathes. The system and method accounts for different combinations of simultaneous and synchronized lathe operations on the spindles which can utilize multiple tools. A graphic synchronization icon is assigned to each mode that preferably represents the lathe operation. Appropriate synchronous operations are grouped together in synchronization groups. The system and method are universal since a postprocessor processes the synchronization modes and synchronization groups, and translates them for use with computer programs understood by a particular CNC lathe.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a system and method for generating a CNC program for machining a part having planar and curvilinear surfaces and surfaces of revolution comprising an interface for inputting part information including for at least one face corresponding to at least one surface of the part and having face information comprising a boundary, an orientation, and a type of machining function corresponding to the face. A set of features corresponding to each face is also input via the interface. Thereafter a set of machining operations to machine the set of features is generated. The machining operations are optimized to achieve a minimum process time to machine the part.