Software Automates CAD Import for Sheet Metal Nesting
Jetcam’s Jetcam Orders Controller (JOC) PA simplifies order creation for single components or component assemblies stored in the company’s Expert CADCAM system. Version 3.57 brings further automation to nesting and NC code generation.
Posted: October 9, 2020
Version 3.57 of Jetcam International’s (Monaco) Jetcam Orders Controller (JOC) software works with Jetcam’s Expert software to streamline and automate the CAD import and nesting process. Available in two versions – Premium and Premium Automation (PA) – Version 3.57 includes several helpful features.
JOC (PA) fully automates CAD import, whereby a folder can be monitored for a CSV file containing details of DXF files to process, material, thickness, quantity required, and machine to nest for. An existing CAD, MES, or MRP system, for example, could generate a CSV file that’s immediately imported, tooled for multiple machines, and nested with NC code available within minutes – all without user intervention.
JOC’s setup section is restructured in line with the company’s CrossTrack enterprise manufacturing suite. An expandable tree in the left of the screen provides logical access to all settings, while a new pane on the right provides detailed descriptions and use examples for each setting. Settings errors are highlighted at the top of the screen so users can quickly identify and fix issues.
Order priority can be automatically set for an entire list of parts based on the column selected, such as assembly sequence, material, or thickness. This is an alternative to progressive nesting, which groups items by kit or order ID; and produces a nest where item order is sequential, trading nesting efficiency for much faster unloading.
A copy/mirror function creates copies and/or mirrors of existing components, automatically tooled and ready for nesting on multiple machines.
Users also can automatically generate NC code for additional machines when sending parts for nesting.
A number of background services have been added. Users can create multiple configurations using the same software installation, which is useful for testing new features. Support logging creates a detailed log so these can be highlighted in the event of a problem such as network or permissions issues.
“JOC has always been about simplifying the process of moving from CAD drawing to NC code,” says Jetcam General Manager Martin Bailey. “Features in Version 3.57 distill complex tasks down to a few mouse clicks or are completely automated. Customers get up and running quicker, with the average JOC installation and configuration performed within 60 minutes.”
Existing customers under maintenance can download JOC for free.
