CAD/CAM Machining Software: The Latest Trends and Advances
Nothing is changing faster or more profoundly than the software used to design and machine parts. To help shops keep up with the latest competitive advances being introduced on the shop floor, here is a report on some of the newest CAD/CAM software.
Posted: January 24, 2014
During simulation, a user can create a list of “Stop At” events, such as “Collisions”, “Warnings”, “Tool changes”, or “End of each setup”, that can be managed interactively in the NC program dialog. The user can add, move, remove, or temporarily disable the events that pause the simulation. Other new features include:
- Drag/drop files from Windows for quick setup.
- Check cutting tool wear limits based on time, distance, and volume.
- Constant gouge check simulation with very large design models is now 2X to 5X faster.
- Automatically save a Reviewer file during the simulation session that incorporates all the functionality of NC Review mode in a stand-alone viewer that does not require a license.
- Measure tool assembly components in the tool manager.
- New CAD/CAM interface is available for Surfcam. Many other CAD/CAM interface improvements have been implemented.
- SpacePilot Mouse/Navigator motion is improved.
- Over 400 customer-driven enhancements and software change requests have been completed since version 7.2.
CGTech also offers VERICUT Composite Applications, machine-independent off-line programming and simulation software solutions for automated composite tape (ATL) and fiber-placement (AFP) CNC machines.
CGTech, 9000 Research Drive, Irvine, CA 92618, 949-753-1050, Fax: 949-753-1053, info@cgtech.com, cgtech.com.
INTEGRATED CAM SOFTWARE IN AUTODESK INVENTOR
InventorCAM 2014 from SolidCAM Inc. (Newtown, PA) is the leading integrated CAM for Autodesk Inventor, with software modules for all types of CNC applications, including the revolutionary, patented iMachining technology. As a Certified Autodesk Inventor Partner, InventorCAM seamlessly integrates inside the CAD system with full toolpath associativity with the Inventor model, automatically revising CAM toolpaths to keep up with any design changes. More than 100 new enhancements include iMachining 2D & 3D, 2.5D Milling, HSS, HSR/HSM, Sim 5X, Turning, Advanced Mill-Turn for multi-turret and multi-spindle machines, and the new module Solid Probe.
Newest features of InventorCAM are discussed by various shops that use it.
The powerful 2.5D Milling module adds more Toolbox roughing and finishing operations, while threading and engraving operations are enhanced. The HSS complementary module for surface machining is upgraded with new lead-in ramping options (see Figures 3-7).
Major enhancements to the Simultaneous 5 axis module include new tilting options and improvements to the SWARF, 5X Drill and Convert HSM to Sim 5X operation, which converts 3-axis machining to 5-axis machining.
The Port machining operation is a new and easy to use method for machining ports with lollipop milling tools. Four strategies will completely finish a port: Rouging, Rest Rough, Spiral and Plunge Finishing. For deburring and trimming, the new Contour 5-axis machining strategy tilts the tool along a chained 3D profile according to defined tilt lines, making it ideal for these processes.
The patented iMachining 2D module with its Technology Wizard provides the fastest cycle times, saving 70 percent machining time and more. Unmatched for hard material machining, it gives significantly longer tool life and offers outstanding small tool performance. The iMachining 3D module can automatically produce a complete, ready to run CNC program with optimal cutting conditions for 3D parts by using its expert Knowledge-based Technology Wizard, by roughing and rest roughing a complete 3D part, with true scallop on all slopes, all in a single operation.
iMachining 3D generates the toolpaths automatically and optimally for significant time savings. The 3D tool path automatically adjusts to avoid collisions between the holder and the updated stock at every stage. Without holder consideration, tools need to be long for safe machining. By taking the holder into account, engineers can use short rigid cutters. A new option provides step-up rest-rough after each step-down, leaving more room for tool holder avoidance so that more of the part can be machined in one operation.
SolidCAM Inc., 207 Pheasant Run, Newtown, PA 18940, 866-975-1115, infonorthamerica@solidcam.com, www.solidcam.com.
WORKFLOW GETS EVEN FASTER
Workflow tools in Edgecam 2014 R1 accelerated toolpath technology from Vero Software Limited (Gloucestershire, UK) get even faster in part setup with Machine Feature and stock and fixture management with Fixture Manager, giving additional control and saving even more time (see Figures 8-9).
A webinar walking through the new features in Edgecam 2014.
In other areas, a new Chamfering Cycle command supports 2D and 3D geometry to automatically deburr sharp edges without the requirement to prepare geometry. It fully supports cutter radius compensation as well as 3D chamfering. Surface machining cycles now have an added Support for 3D Normal Offset Output control to compensate for tool wear on 3D machining toolpaths for greater accuracy and control on tight tolerance components. A new design CPL datum marker has color-coded rotation bars and axis labeling for ‘rough and finish turn cycles’ for new or infrequent users.
An interactive editing tool for re-designing standard dialog boxes is now available. The ability to “Mask” the standard interface allows shops to pick which modifiers settings are displayed, empowering them to create command dialogs aligned to their preferred manufacturing methods.
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