ToolShop CAD/CAM Fundamentals

Course Description

ToolShop CAD/CAM Fundamentals is the flagship training course from Vortex Software Solutions and provides a complete hands-on introduction to professional CAD/CAM programming using ToolShop. Students learn the entire programming workflow beginning with importing customer drawings and ending with optimized CNC programs ready for production. The course combines classroom instruction with extensive hands-on exercises using real manufacturing parts and production scenarios. Topics include DXF/DWG import, geometry repair, CAD editing, material setup, nesting, toolpath creation, lead-ins, micro joints, cutting technology, simulation, post processing, and machine output. Designed for programmers, machine operators, manufacturing engineers, and shop supervisors, this course builds the skills needed to confidently program laser, plasma, router, waterjet, and punch machines while improving productivity, reducing scrap, and maximizing material utilization.

Learning Objectives

• Understand the complete ToolShop workflow
• Navigate the ToolShop interface
• Import DXF and DWG files
• Repair poor quality CAD drawings
• Create production-ready geometry
• Configure materials and cutting technology
• Generate optimized nests
• Create laser toolpaths
• Create plasma toolpaths
• Create router toolpaths
• Optimize cut sequencing
• Use common line cutting
• Use chain cutting
• Configure lead-ins and lead-outs
• Generate CNC programs
• Post process for multiple controllers
• Verify machine output
• Improve programming efficiency
• Reduce material waste
• Troubleshoot common programming problems

Skills Covered