Toolpath Validation
MapleCAM includes a 3D voxel-based toolpath validator that simulates your operations against the stock and detects errors before you run your machine.
What Validation Checks
The validator builds a 3D voxel model of your stock, then simulates each toolpath cutting through it. It flags:
- Overcuts — the tool removing material outside the intended operation region (reported as an overcut volume in the toolpath stats)
Other classes of error — undercut (material that should have been cut and wasn't), workholding interference, tool breakage, plunge feed-rate mistakes, and so on — are not flagged automatically. You can spot undercut visually by inspecting the Remaining Material layer in the 3D view after all operations complete.
Running Validation
Validation runs automatically after toolpath generation. Progress is shown in the status bar. You can also manually trigger a full recompute via View > Recalculate Toolpaths.
Interpreting Results
The 3D view's Remaining Material layer shows the voxel simulation result — you can visually inspect what material remains after all operations. Operations that produced overcut are reflected in the project's toolpath stats; cross-check against the Cutting Volumes layer to see where the tool went outside the intended region.
Validation Resolution
The validator uses a default voxel resolution of 0.2mm. This means the simulation has approximately 0.2mm precision — features smaller than this may not be accurately represented.
Always Validate Before Cutting
Validation is your last check before sending G-code to your machine. While it can't catch every possible issue (e.g., workholding, tool breakage), it catches the most common CAM errors that could damage your work or machine.