🟩 Core Essentials
Features present or expected in a basic CAM package and necessary to perform the required tasks
| Feature | Description | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Python/Macro Support | Allow scripting or automation via Python or macros | Limited. Some CAM functions require the GUI to be loaded. No examples shipped with FreeCAD. No examples on the wiki |
🟨 Professional Grade
Features usually present or expected in the state-of-the art applications
| Feature | Description | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Parametric Workflows | Operations update automatically in response to model changes | Partial. Recomputes are inconsistent. Sometimes triggered when not needed. Sometimes require manual recompute. Recomputes are inefficient. Cannot, for example, recompute just the dressup or just the finishing pass. |
🟦 Next-Level CAM
Features that would exceed industry standard
| Feature | Description | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Headless Batch Jobs | Run toolpath generation/export without UI interaction | Limited |
| External Workflow Integration | Embed CAM pipeline into other automated systems | None |