userframe

A userframe is a coordinate system defined by a user, typically within a larger, pre-existing coordinate system. In computer-aided design (CAD) and manufacturing (CAM) software, userframes are essential for defining specific orientations and positions for operations, measurements, or object placement. Instead of relying solely on the default world coordinate system, users can create multiple userframes to represent different working planes, assembly alignments, or tool paths.

Creating a userframe usually involves selecting reference points, lines, or surfaces within the model. The software then uses these references to construct a new origin, along with new X, Y, and Z axes. These axes can be aligned with existing geometry, such as the edge of a part, the center of a hole, or a specially constructed construction plane. Once defined, the userframe becomes an active reference for subsequent actions. For instance, a drilling operation might be programmed relative to a specific userframe that represents the angled surface of a component, rather than trying to calculate complex transformations from the world origin.

The ability to define and switch between multiple userframes significantly enhances flexibility and efficiency in design and manufacturing processes. It allows users to work more intuitively with complex geometries and to accurately position and orient components and operations without constant manual recalculation of transformations.