I know this is an older post but it may be worth providing a complete answer here for those who are searching for a solution.
First, lets talk about the Woodwop -> Machined part process. Then it will be easier to see, how and where we can use externally generated 'programs'.
In woodwop we program 'Macros' or 'Processes' in general terms. These macros are details - without instructions. "I want a hole at X, Y with diameter 8mm, 12mm deep. " Not a single G0 G1 .... to be found.
It is only in the 'NC Generate' step that the NCWEEKE.exe or NCHOMAG.exe takes templates of the (machine specific) drilling process with G0-G81 etc and fills in the blank. (X Y Z , Feed, Speed, and Tool).
This is what makes it possible to send the same program to two very different machines (different controllers, tools etc) and still end up with the same part.
So how can CAM be used?
The first is to have CAM generated G-Code wrapped into the MPR which is basically telling the NC-Generate to accept the G-Code as is. In general programs cannot be stopped and restarted in the middle and operators cannot adjust the programs.
The second is to get a CAM program that generates MPR programs instead of G-Code.
In my opinion, the second is by far the safer method. By using the MPR method, all the 'Rapid - G0' motions are guaranteed to be away from the part, as these are all provided by the NC generated and the templates (per machine type). The second benefit is that the CNC operator can make adjustments to the program (swap a tool because 128 is being sharpened today) with no difficulty at all. Drilling also benefits from MPR because we ask for a diameter and not a tool number. Different machines may have toll numbers rearranged due to drill banks etc.
Although it may be tempting to use the CAM in SolidWorks which work great for metal machining, it makes more sense to use a CAM designed for HOMAG etc and Wood machining.
Search HOMAG SOLIDWORKS and MPR to see who can provide a plugin CAM for Homag that meets your needs.
