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Intelligent NC captures the user’s knowledge of the machine process and recognizes the appropriate machining strategies.

While these two parts are geometrically different, a machinist recognizes that they are in fact machined using the same process. The colored regions show areas that would be machined using equivalent technology. Intelligent NC captures the machining process used on the first part, and automatically applies and adapts it to the second.

As the millennium approaches, CAM software developers have started to address the complete automation of the manufacturing process. Although they’ve solved many pieces of the puzzle — from macro capture, to generative NC, to automatic NC — no one has put the whole CAM story together in one package. Actually that is, until now.

Most attempts to automate started with simple 2.5-axis programs. These early attempts all focused on machining design “features.” For a sculptured surface model, the promise of full 3-axis automation seemed hopeless, because in general, CAM software development has not kept pace with its CAD counterparts. However, the introduction of Intelligent NC has changed that. Intelligent NC holds the key to completely automating the manufacturing process by combining the modern CAM software technologies like manufacturing feature recognition (MFR), automatic NC (ANC), and knowledge-based machining (KBM) with complete knowledge of stock remaining (KSR).

Intelligent NC captures the user’s knowledge of the machining process and recognizes the appropriate machining strategies. This new process plan automatically applies and adapts to any new geometry, in order to produce safe, efficient, high quality toolpaths. Intelligent NC promises to capture the manufacturing engineer’s experience and knowledge to allow a novice machinist to apply this knowledge to new jobs — automatically.

Intelligent NC is not feature-based machining. This would restrict machining to the geometrical features the designer had used to model the part. These geometrical features have nothing to do with the optimal method in which the part should be machined. MFR, on the other hand, automatically recognizes machining features with technologically similar attributes like slope, horizon-tal/vertical areas, curvature, and bounded or unbounded volumes. Based on the way previous jobs were machined, the system will decide which machining strategy to apply. One must machine the part the way a machinist sees it, especially if the machinist needs to override or modify the automatic strategy selection. MFR will make the cutting strategy decision process automatic.

The model should not have to be a solid to take advantage of Intelligent NC. Models in the automotive industry can be solid, surfaces, or a hybrid model of the two technologies. In fact, Intelligent NC must apply to wireframe geometry or to geometry which started as a cloud of points. It shouldn’t matter if the model is created native from within the CAD module of a particular package, or if the model is brought in from another system via IGES, VDA, STEP, or SAT. In fact, the CAD data source is irrelevant.

A faster machining process
ANC will provide companies with the tools to capture an entire machining process. The benefit is that the process can then be applied to technologically similar parts, cores, cavities, or electrodes. Furthermore, a “standard” is then established, forcing all similar parts/molds to be machined according to the most efficient and beneficial method. Once a library of machining strategies is in place, NC programming becomes a “one button” process. The learning curve shortens, allowing novice programmers to machine high quality molds fast, with complete safety. This technique captures the machining intent of top programmers, thereby capturing their knowledge.

A more efficient machining process
Knowledge engines optimize toolpaths and produce efficient NC code for the shop floor. With KBM, it is possible to eliminate extra cutting time, because systems actually analyze the geometry and determine regions to be machined with a similar milling strategy. KBM introduces additional toolpath movement or eliminates unnecessary motion to provide optimal material removal with good surface finish.

A safe machining process
KSR should not only calculate the stock remaining after each toolpath, it must use this information to optimize subsequent cutter movement. Toolpaths can also be optimized to account for high speed machining (HSM) techniques. The system will be able to fully gouge-check all cutter moves against the stock remaining as well as the part.

It has taken the CAM industry 20 years to catch up to the CAD industry. The advent of new algorithms to address MFR, ANC, KBM, and KSR will make Intelligent NC a reality. Early next century, several CAM software developers will be introducing this technology. For the mold-maker, these algorithms will let standards be applied in an automatic, fast, efficient, and safe manner. The worldwide shortage of moldmakers may well be addressed in these new technologies as they promise to shorten apprenticeship training.

Capturing the engineer’s knowledge in a database will be the next technological leapfrog for which the CAD/CAM industry is already preparing.

http://www.americanmachinist.com/304/Issue/Article/False/9160/Issue

Tags: NC programming

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VERICUT simulates actual cutting toolpaths in a fully modelled
environment to highlight collisions or clashes, off the machine.

The system already has interfaces for Catia V4, catia V5, Siemens NX, PTC Pro-Mfg, MasterCAM, EdgeCAM and GibbsCAM, while CADCAM companies Delcam (PowerMill), Open Mind (HyperMill) and Missler (Topsolidcam) have all written their own interfaces.
CGTech is now working on interfaces for Surfcam, SolidCAM, Planit AlphaCAM and Camworks, Machinery has learned.

You can see CGTech VERICUT at CADCAM Matters, to be held at Donington Park on 18 November. See www.cadcammatters.co.uk.

http://www.machinery.co.uk/article/20422/More-CAD-interfaces-for-VERICUT-under-development.aspx

Tags: CAD interfaces

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New from LVD Strippit (Akron, NY; www.lvdgroup.com) are CADMAN-L 3D and CADMAN-P 3D version 28, offline programming software for LVD laser cutting systems and CNC turret punch presses. The new software release provides enhanced functions for laser cutting and punching applications, including an up to 50 percent speed improvement on multi module applications.

New functionality includes advanced auto-nesting capabilities, import/export nesting; multiple machining functions on a single part;, ‘job explorer’ and full compatibility with Microsoft Vista. The ‘job explorer’ feature optimizes LVD’s ‘project tree’ principle of storing processing data related to the piece part by allowing the simplified organization of ‘job’ data. Structured organization, searching, and moving of part related data within the technology database is all made easy by ‘job explorer’.

CADMAN-L 3D incorporates fully automatic, semi-automatic or manual nesting and optimizes cutting and machine parameters to maximize sheet utilization for laser cutting systems.

http://www.industrial-lasers.com/display_article/371744/39/none/none/Produ/Offline-programming-software-for-laser-cutting/punching-from-LVD-Strippi

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SolutionWare Corp has announced the release of “MazaCAM Smart Edition,” the newest version of SolutionWare’s MazaCAM CNC programming system. MazaCAM Smart Edition is the first and only CNC programming system to support the entire range of generations from Mazak’s first T1 model to the new Mazatrol SMART lathes and controls. MazaCAM Smart Edition also supports all standard G-code CNC controls. Shops can now have one system for programming all their CNCs instead of different methods and systems for each kind of machine.

MazaCAM Smart Edition Software

According to Mazak Corporation, Mazak’s new QUICK TURN SMART series of lathes and controls can be programmed up to 75% faster than machines equipped with EIA/ISO systems. SolutionWare’s MazaCAM Smart Edition helps users leverage that efficiency even more by converting between control generations, programming Mazatrol on the computer, converting CAD-files such as IGES and DXF to Mazatrol, and checking the program before it goes out to the shop floor — along with tool-management and other time-saving benefits. In addition, MazaCAM Smart Edition can program any machine that uses industry-standard G-code.

Converting to the new SMART Generation from Legacy controls

A major benefit of the new MazaCAM Smart Edition is the ability to convert legacy Mazak programs to the new SMART controls and lathes.

“This is such breakthrough technology that most people who have Mazak controls don’t think a product like this even exists, so they don’t think to look for it,” says Jon Perry, SolutionWare R&D Manager. “Not only is it the first and only CAM software to support Mazak’s new SMART controls, it adds value by being completely backwards compatible through all Mazak generations, from the original T1 to the latest Mazak lathes and controls. This means that shops that have already taken the time and resources to program jobs on their Mazaks can leverage their library of proven programs by transforming them to the new SMART, Matrix and other generation controls. This enables the shop to be up and running in a minimum time and eliminates the time-consuming and error-prone job of hand-entering the programs on the new controls.”

Supports all Mazak generations

In addition to adding support of the new SMART control family and the QUICK TURN SMART line, MazaCAM SMART Edition supports M2, M32, M-Plus, Fusion-640M, T1, T2, T3, T32, T-Plus, Fusion-640T, 640MT, Fusion-Pro and the Matrix M, T and e-series controls. There are many other enhancements for the range of CNC machines such as the Mazak Integrex, e-Machine, Nexus, Quick-Turn, Super Quick-Turn, and Multiplex, and the broad range of horizontal and vertical machining centers. A sampling of these enhancements include:

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Easier network communications, to send/receive files over the Ethernet directly to the CNC.
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Enhanced conversion between generations of Integrex machines, including the tilting-tool B-axis.
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Enhanced conversion between controls regarding Priority-Numbers.
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Improved conversion of Manual-Process, now users can convert all the way from T1 to the Matrix and the new Smart control in a single command.
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Even more enhancements on converting between Matrix and other generations.
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More live-tooling support for multi-tasking mill-turn lathes.
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More open integration so other systems can access the functions within MazaCAM and thus provide the user with a more seamless experience.

Jon Perry adds, “In today’s economy, controlling costs yet increasing efficiency is essential. Each of these enhancements was engineered to address areas that will, in the real world, help users gain more productivity, and reduce the Total Cost of Ownership.”

About SolutionWare Corporation

For more than 34 years SolutionWare Corporation has been continuously advancing software and training that gives CNC shops the flexibility to utilize all their CNC equipment for the greater productivity of their shop.

http://www.tenlinks.com/news/PR/solutionware/010410_mazacam_smarteditor.htm

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Gibbs and Associates is shipping the latest version of its CNC machine programming software, GibbsCAM 2010. “We have been working very hard to provide customers new functionality across the GibbsCAM product family,” said Bill Gibbs, founder and president. “We added many capabilities to make programming and machining easier and more efficient, especially with new features in 5-axis and solids machining.”

The 2010 update to GibbsCAM delivers what founder and president Bill Gibbs calls “new functionality across the GibbsCAM product family,” including capabilities to make programming and machining easier and more efficient, especially for 5-axis and solids machining.

He continued: “We also implemented 64-bit operation to enable faster processing of long programs and complex parts, added support for new tools and tool holders, extended functionality within various modules, and extended and updated interoperability with various CAD systems,” according to Gibbs.

5-Axis Functionality
For 5-axis machining, the new GibbsCAM offers several programming improvements, including: more spiral machining options; new gouge-check projection options; a new lead in/lead out “flip” option; a new axial shift damp option for trimming applications; and support for countersink and keyway cutters.

More specific additions are:

* Geometry Creation – A plug-in function will create surfaces for repairing or improving machinability of surfaces from solids.
* Adaptive Cuts – This new option lets programmers regulate the distance between paths based upon the angle of the surface to be machined, to provide a consistent surface finish, regardless of surface angle.
* Impeller Roughing – This function has been enhanced with functionality to cover more contingencies, which GibbsCAM says will e “especially useful when roughing near and around splitter blades.”
* Tool Retraction – A new option — “Retract Through Tube Center” — will make it possible to retract” cutting tools from angled pockets while avoiding walls, especially useful for machining cylinder head ports and similar geometry,” the developer said.

Machining Solids
In addition, GibbsCAM 2010 offers a series of enhanced capabilities for machining solids. Among these:
Plunge Roughing – This option has been upgraded from a plug-in tool and now appears as a tile in the CAM palette. So, programmers can calculate material removal strategies that accommodate carbide-inserted drills, which require special motion for no-drag retractions, and avoiding collisions.

Advanced 3D Machining– Among these enhancements are Hit Flats, with specified tools for Pocketing, which makes it possible to specify flatness tolerance in Flats Cut. This ensures that all desired “flat” areas are machined, locking in high feed rate for Shortest Route and Minimal Vertical retract styles.

Option for Stock– Facet bodies, generated from a previous machining process, or brought in through a data file, can be used now as initial stock in solid pocketing.

64-bit Implementation
GibbsCAM calls 64-bit implementation a “significant development” that lets programmers take advantage of more powerful, multi-processor PCs equipped with 4GB or more of RAM. This provides tighter interoperability with 64-bit CAD systems that are co-resident with GibbsCAM on a PC; and, 64-bit operation reduces computation time when processing very long programs or working with complex geometry.

Also, it will let users take advantage of system enhancements when running under the Windows 7 operating system.

The developer said other new features to GibbsCAM 2010 have been installed to simplify use or to extend functionality, including enhancements to the user interface and for the Milling, MTM (multi-task machining) and Wire EDM modules, and new add-ins for data exchange to support Inventor 2010, SolidWorks 2010, and additional CAD file import and translation. Furthermore, the Macros menu was enhanced to make access easier, with uninterrupted operation, and to support 5-axis, Advanced 3D processes, and calls to plug-ins.

http://www.americanmachinist.com/304/Issue/Article/False/85400/Issue

Tags: Programming

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Geometric has released CAMWorks 2010, the latest version of its solids-based CNC programming solution.

This computer-aided-manufacturing (CAM) software is suitable for automotive port finishing, impellers, turbine blades, cutting tools, five-axis trimming and undercut machining.

Various improvements have been made to enable users to program parts faster and more easily.

For turning, the ability to define variable allowances along the feature provides more control while reducing the time and complexity of programming.

For turning and mill/turn machining involving irregular casting stock shapes, an STL file can now be used to represent the stock.

While creating a more realistic simulation, this also simplifies the stock definition and results in a more efficient and predictable tool path.

CAMWorks 2010 includes many improvements to multi-axis machining; these improvements enable tool-path generation on increasingly complex part models, according to the company.

New controls have been added to simplify the processing of impellers and blisks.

Safely entering and retracting from the part has become more flexible and easier than previous versions.

Visualisation enhancements have been made to feature, tooling and stock display.

These changes offer a more realistic representation of the machining environment to simplify programming and improve productivity.

The computation for machining time has been modified and updated to provide a more accurate estimate.

This information can be used for costing and process planning purposes.

Support for SQL Server Express has also been added to improve performance in large-scale deployments of CAMWorks.

CAMWorks is a Solidworks-certified Gold CAM product that provides machining capabilities integrated in Solidworks.

According to the company, CAMWorks can run within Solidworks or as part of a cost-effective computer-aided-design (CAD)/CAM package that includes CAMWorks Solids and an integrated solid modeller.

CAMWorks 2010 supports Solidworks 2009 and 2010 running under 32- and 64-bit XP, Vista and Windows 7.

http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/gev/gev124.html

Tags: CNC programming

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CNC Router designed specifically for foam packaging and foam cutting applications has a standard 19in gantry clearance and a 24in Z-axis stroke - assuring maximum tool reach and clearance.

Techno is proud to announce a new CNC Router designed specifically for foam packaging and foam cutting applications.

This machine is available in three sizes (X-Y travel): 59in x 50in, 59in x 96in and 59in x 120in.

Techno’s new Foam Router comes standard with 19in gantry clearance and a Z-axis stroke of 24in assuring maximum tool reach and clearance.

Minimal floor space is required because the machine design includes a moving gantry which saves valuable shop space.

In addition, these new machines can be equipped with an automatic tool changer, vacuum table for increased part hold-down, reverse engineering probes or scanners, 4th axis rotary table, and much more.

All of Techno’s CNC Routers come with Techno’s own GCode Interface which accepts industry standard GCode from all CAD/CAM programs.

This easy to use Windows-based CNC Software features: infinite look ahead capability, production logging, toolpath editing and previewer, and free lifetime upgrades via the internet.

The best part of these new machines is the starting base price of US$23,900.

http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/toi/toi113.html

Tags: foam cutting

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There are many CNC routers that are available and more seem to be produced every day but none have the features of machines offered at a price of $16,995 for a 4ft x 8ft travel model says the maker.

There are many CNC routers that are available and more seem to be produced every day but none off the features of the new Techno LC Series at a price of $16,995 for a 4ft x 8ft travel model.

A new brochure from Techno introduces the three new models of the LC Series CNC routers produced by Techno.

All three models feature a welded and ground steel frame for rigidity under the heaviest cuts.

The design also includes THK rails and bearings as well as ball screws to ensure minimal maintenance and high positioning accuracy and repeatability as well as machine longevity.

The new CNC routers also feature closed loop servomotors for high speed and accuracy without the possibility of losing position as happens with stepper motors.

And the unit is shipped fully assembled and tested, ready to run.

The LC Class of CNC Routers is ideal for the production routing of plastics, wood, aluminum, composites, etc, either in nested base form or individual component processing.

Beyond the heavy-duty frame and design, the new LC Class comes standard with Techno’s easy to use Windows PC based interface.

This interface accepts industry standard GCODE produced by virtually every CAD/CAM and sign making software system.

Most major functions are just one-click away with the new Techno CNC Windows Interface, including: a built-in GCODE editor and toolpath preview, production logging and reporting, infinite look-ahead and continuous 3D motion and free lifetime software updates via the Internet to name a few.

The standard routers are provided with heavy-duty aluminum “T” slot table surfaces and have vacuum tables available as options as well.

A unique feature of the Techno LC Routers is that they offer both T-slots and vacuum hold down on the same machine to provide exceptional hold down flexibility.

Information on the new models and the available options is provided in the brochure, identified as H869.

This brochure provides detailed specs for this series which is available in 3-standard sizes from 30in x 24in, 50in x 59in and 59in x 96in.

For additional technical information, please contact Roy Valentine, CNC Sales Manager.

http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/toi/toi103.html

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Latest CNC routers are described as true ‘heavyweights’ by the builder who says they offer minimal maintenance and maximum machine performance and longevity and infinite ‘look ahead’ contouring.

Techno introduces the new Premium Class of CNC routers.

This new family of routers is a true heavyweight with the 59in x 96in travel unit weighing in at over 6000 lb.

These new CNC routers feature welded and stress relieved all steel construction plus THK rails, bearings and ball screws on all three axes to guarantee minimal maintenance and maximum machine performance and longevity.

They feature brushless closed loop servomotors for optimal performance, speed and accuracy.

These routers also feature infinite lock ahead high speed contouring to take advantage of the brushless servo capabilities.

This new router series comes standard with a heavy T-slot table and is also available with a vacuum table option that still allows the use of the T-slots.

This provides the flexibility of both clamping and vacuum hold down as the situation might require.

The Premium Class line of CNC Routers is ideal for the heaviest and most demanding production routing of plastics, wood, aluminum, composites, etc,.

Beyond the heavy-duty frame and design, the new Premium Class line comes standard with Techno’s easy to use Windows PC based interface for communicating with any CAD/CAM or sign making software that outputs industry standard GCODE.

Most major functions are just one-click away with the Techno CNC Interface, including: a built-in GCODE editor, toolpath preview, production logging and reporting and free lifetime software updates via the Internet to name a few.

The Premium Class is available in 4-standard sizes of 59in x 50in, 59in x 96in, 59in x 120in and 59in x 144in with special sizes available upon request.

http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/toi/toi104.html

Tags: heavy machining

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Techno, Inc. CNC Routers introduces the Techno Universal Knife System, all in one universal tool that uses one main drive capable of processing multiple applications through interchangeable heads. Using a common rotary drive, the Techno Universal Knife System can change between the Oscillating Knife, Tangential Drag Knife, Spring Loaded Pen, Vinyl Drag Cutter or Creasing Wheel Kit when needed.

“Our Universal Knife System was designed to target various industries that would benefit from an interchangeable tool, says Roy Valentine, CNC Routers Sales Manager. Whether the company is a Sign or Point of Purchase manufacturer that needs to cut graphic art sheets printed on a wide format flat bed printer, HVAC manufacturer that needs to cut acoustic liners or a packaging manufacturer that needs to cut and crease corrugated cartons, this one system is the right product.”

In addition to the interchangeable heads mentioned above, the Techno Universal Knife System can be combined with the Techno Vision (digital image verification package) to provide Sign and Graphics customers a complete and easy-to-use digital finishing solution. System functions allow the operator to load material on any Techno CNC Router, select the image for routing and press “Start”. The machine will then verify the linear and rotational distortion and proceed in routing the pattern of the desired image before your eyes.

http://www.designworldonline.com/articles/5689/11/Techno–Inc–CNC-Routers-introduces-the-Techno-Universal-Knife-System.aspx

Tags: CNC Routers

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