The CAM Pipeline

MapleCAM follows a four-stage pipeline from design to machined part:

Design → Operations → Toolpaths → G-code

1. Design (Import)

You start with a 2D vector design — an SVG or DXF file created in tools like Inkscape, Illustrator, LibreCAD, or AutoCAD. The design contains paths (lines, arcs, curves) that define the shapes you want to cut.

2. Operations

You assign operations to paths. An operation describes how to cut: contour around the outside, pocket out the interior, engrave along the line, V-carve with variable depth, etc. Each operation has settings like cut depth, feed rate, and tool selection.

3. Toolpaths

MapleCAM generates toolpaths from your operations. Toolpaths are the precise XYZ coordinates your cutting tool will follow, including:

• Tool offset (compensating for the tool's radius)
• Multi-pass depth stepping
• Lead-in and lead-out moves
• Rapid positioning between cuts
• Tab placement for hold-down tabs

Toolpath generation is automatic — it runs whenever you change an operation's settings.

4. G-code

Finally, you export G-code — the machine-readable instructions for your CNC controller. MapleCAM translates toolpaths into the G-code dialect your machine understands (GRBL, LinuxCNC, etc.), including spindle/laser control, feed rates, and safe movement heights.