Archive for the ‘Computer Aided Manufacturing’ Category

Some Recent CNC News from the globe.

EMO 2007: Mastercam X2 Mill Delivers Power, Speed, and New … – MCADCafe (press release)

Press brake and CNC laser builder brands globally – Manufacturing Talk

EdgeCAM Showcased at EMO 2007 – MCADCafe (press release)

EU Forces Auto Makers to Divulge Car Technical Data (Industry Week)
Companies have to provide information to private garages so they can repair vehicles.

Originally posted 2007-09-17 09:18:36. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Mill/turn complete machining CAM module allows operators to switch between turning and milling strategies at any time whilst they are programming

At the UK’s MACH 2008 machine tool exhibition, Open Mind Technologies UK will present its latest innovations for efficient CAM programming. Highlights will include the mill/turn hyperMILL millTURN module for complete machining on milling and turning machines, the new CAD integration of hyperMILL in SolidWorks and the latest version of hyperMill V10 – all to be shown in the UK for the first time.

The capabilities of Open Mind products will be highlighted with numerous live demonstrations of workpieces programmed using hyperMILL.

These will take place on the Open Mind stand as well as on the stands of the various machine tool partners.

Open Mind’s technology partners include the following.

* Agie Charmilles UK.

* CG-Tech.

* CMS Group.

* DMG UK.

* Hurco Europe.

* Mori-Seiki UK.

* Seco Tools UK.

* YMT.

Some of which will be using hyperMill cam software at MACH to provide live machining demonstrations.

Live demonstrations taking place at MACH, said Open Mind to manufacturingtalk.com, will show that hyperMILL is not only a flexible and user-friendly cam system but also a system that delivers first-class machining results.

Further details on live demonstrations can be found on the Open Mind stand at the show.

* Mill/turn in one program – as well as providing multiple demonstrations at MACH with its technology partners, visitors to Open Mind’s stand will be able to witness the hyperMILL millTURN Version 10 CAM software for milling and mill-turning with just one program.

The ability to accurately manufacture complex parts in a single set-up, reduce set-up times and increase efficiency has brought considerable demand for the mill/turn module that has been integrated into hyperMILL.

Users can switch between turning and milling strategies at any time whilst they are programming.

It also allows users to generate NC programs very easily.

The tool database, automatic stock tracking, stock management and collision control are available for all turning and milling strategies.

A mill/turn postprocessor ensures that a complete NC file is produced.

In addition to the new mill/turn module, hyperMill V10 promises to increase performance considerably thanks to its multi-core processor support.

Alongside this will be version V10 presented for the first time at MACH.

This is destined to be a major highlight for all SolidWorks users as this version includes the new CAD integration of hyperMILL in SolidWorks.

This integration allows users to work with hyperMILL in their familiar SolidWorks environment.

This version will also support Windows Vista.

* Open Mind at MACH 2008, NEC, Birmingham, UK, April 21-25, Hall 5, Stand 5556.

Originally posted 2008-01-09 23:55:35. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Originally posted 2007-09-10 02:20:38. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

OnSynopsis:
Fanuc Power Mate (Models D, F) has an option called Workpiece Number Search. Using this option, the PMC can initiate the execution of a specified part program. This is especially useful in cases where the Power Mate is used to control special purpose machines that produce a known set of components. Such applications are found in batch production factories.

How it Works:
To synchronize the PMC and CNC functions, there is a communication area in the Fanuc Power Mate where the PMC & CNC exchange signals. These are a set of bytes and there are two areas namely:

a) The G area – signals from the PMC to the CNC

b) The F area – signals from the CNC to the PMC

By selectively loading G009 with a value in the range 1-255, the CNC will execute a program between O001 to O255.

To read the complete article please visit http://www.controlon.com/resources/default.aspSynopsis:
Fanuc Power Mate (Models D, F) has an option called Workpiece Number Search. Using this option, the PMC can initiate the execution of a specified part program. This is especially useful in cases where the Power Mate is used to control special purpose machines that produce a known set of components. Such applications are found in batch production factories.

How it Works:
To synchronize the PMC and CNC functions, there is a communication area in the Fanuc Power Mate where the PMC & CNC exchange signals. These are a set of bytes and there are two areas namely:

a) The G area – signals from the PMC to the CNC

b) The F area – signals from the CNC to the PMC

By selectively loading G009 with a value in the range 1-255, the CNC will execute a program between O001 to O255.

To read the complete article please visit http://www.controlon.com/resources/default.asp

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Originally posted 2007-10-22 11:33:11. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

CAD/CAM software for the skilled artisian is believed to be the easiest to learn and the fastest to use engraving and routing software currently available

Delcam has released its ‘entry-level’ version of its ArtCAM family of artistic CAD/CAM software. Called ArtCAM Express, it is intended for skilled artisans, rather than engineers. Delcam said operating the software requires little knowledge of engineering or computing. Delcam believes it to be the easiest to learn and the fastest to use engraving and routing software currently available.

ArtCAM Express offers 2D drawing, and 2D and basic 3D machining functions.

Delcam told manufacturingtalk.com that ArtCAM Express provides an ideal introduction to computer-based manufacturing for companies in the signmaking, woodworking and engraving industries.

Designs can be imported in DXF, DWG, AI and EPS 2D formats, while the 3D formats supported include STL files from any CAD system, plus designs from Alias Wavefront, 3D Studio and other members of the ArtCAM family.

The software comes with a library of 3D ‘clip-art’ that new customers can use to create their first models.

All these examples can be scaled or combined to give initial designs ready for machining.

As the user increases his skills, any new designs that he creates can be added to the library.

For users that prefer to create their own designs, the software includes a range of drawing tools for producing geometric and free-form shapes, and also for editing and repairing imported 2D files.

The options for text creation support a wide range of fonts and also give complete control over spacing, kerning, and line and paragraph formatting.

* CNC machining – once the design has been finalised, the software offers a variety of strategies for CNC machining.

2D strategies supported include area clearance, profiling, engraving, vector-based machining and drilling, plus V-bit carving on all standard Windows fonts.

In addition, a 3D raster toolpath can be created within a vector boundary.

The software is supplied with a tooling database, which can be edited or added to by the user, plus drivers for many of the leading CNC engraving and routing machines.

Originally posted 2008-01-01 16:20:09. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

SolidCAM to Exhibit its latest version at SolidWorks World 2008

2008-01-18 17:36:29 -

January 18, 2008 – SolidCAM, the leading and fast growing supplier of integrated CAM software solutions for the manufacturing industry, today announced it will exhibit at SolidWorks World 2008, one of the world’s largest annual 3D CAD events. This in-ternational user conference and exposition takes place in the San Diego, CA, Conven-tion Center January 20 – 23, 2008.

SolidCAM will demonstrate the new version SolidCAM2008 R12, which is Gold-certified for SolidWorks®2008 at Booth # 632. The single-window user interface and the full as-sociativity between the CAD model and NC tool path guarantee a short learning curve and an efficient data flow from the 3D design model to the machined part. The new version provides a complete manufacturing solution with enhanced user friendliness, more automation features and additional CAM functions. SolidCAM2008 R12 supplies improvements for all Milling applications, including interactive and automated 2.5D Mill-ing, High-Speed Machining, Indexial and Simultaneous 5-axis Machining. Also, users will benefit from new features for the Mill-Turn, which includes support up to 5-axes (XYZCB) and back spindle operations.

SolidCAM is also presenting at the Certified Partner Theater on Tuesday, Jan 22nd at 4 p.m. Mr. Bede Kortegast, SolidCAM’s VP of sales for North America, will demonstrate the latest innovations in SolidCAM2008 R12.
Today, SolidWorks and SolidCAM look back to a successful 5-year partnership, which started in the year 2003 with the Gold certification and the Bundle agreement. Emil Somekh, founder and Managing Director of SolidCAM, states: ‘As a Gold-certified part-ner of SolidWorks, we have always been committed to single-window integration and full associativity with SolidWorks – in our view the best solution to streamline the entire manufacturing process which results in reduced costs and shorter lead times.- He continues: ‘In the past 5 years, we succeeded together with SolidWorks to win several thousand new customers, which benefited from the combined solution Solid-Works+SolidCAM. In the next years, we will continue to strengthen our leadership in In-tegrated CAM.-

About SolidCAM

Founded in 1984 by its Managing director Dr. Emil Somekh, SolidCAM provides manu-facturing customers with a full suite of CAM software modules for 2.5D and 3D Milling, High-Speed Machining, Multi-sided Indexial 4/5 axes Milling, Simultaneous 5 axes Mill-ing, Turning, Turn-Mill up to 5-axes and WireEDM. SolidCAM has the Certified Gold-product status from SolidWorks and provides seamless, single-window integration and full associativity to the SolidWorks design model including parts, assemblies and con-figurations. SolidCAM has today more than 12,000 seats installed. SolidCAM is sold by a worldwide reseller network in 46 countries. SolidCAM is used in the mechanical manufacturing, electronics, medical, consumer products, machine design, automotive and aerospace industries, in mold, tool and die and rapid prototyping shops. SolidCAM has been on a very rapid growth path since it implemented the SolidWorks integration strategy with high annual growth rates of more than 30%. For the latest information, visit the company’s website www.solidcam.com

For more information about SolidCAM visit:
www.solidcam.com

Press Contact
Rachael Dalton-Taggart
Strategic Reach PR
Tel: (303) 487-7406
Email: Rachael@strategicreachpr.com

Originally posted 2008-01-15 21:35:37. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) is the software automation process that directly converts an object into code and enables the machine to manufacture the product. It is used in various machines like lathes or milling machines for product manufacturing purposes. It allows the computer work instructions to communicate directly to the manufacturing machines.

CAM Resources provide you with various information regarding the actual system, applications, areas of CAM, software used and the detail information of the providers. In the early 1950?s, the technology evolved from the Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines, which were directed by a set of coded instructions in a punched paper tape. The technology now has more advanced features for quick and reliable manufacturing processes.

CAM software helps you in many ways during the manufacturing of the product. It guides you with much quicker and easier steps to follow. The software is designed and developed with user-friendliness and compatibility. Fully integrated CAD and CAM software is also used to perform various processes within the CAM system. The 2D dimensional constraints also can be used using the software. TurboCADCAM3 software is available with more user-friendliness at reasonable prices. EDC, PTC, AutoDesk and CamSoft are the major software providers in the industry.

The major applications that are used by the CAM system are machines like lathes, welding machines, and robotic milling machines. Other applications that are used by the CAM system are in fields such as mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, aerospace engineering and electrical engineering. The system is considered to be very expensive as it ranges more than $18,000 along with the software.

CAM system mostly works as the integrated unit with the CAD system. A 3D environment is used for the integrated working, which provides you a better and faster manufacturing process. The manufacturing mechanisms that are handled within the system are Computer-Integrated Manufacturing (CIM), Integrated Computer-Aided Manufacturing (ICAM), Flexible Manufacturing System (FMS), Direct Numerical Control (DNC), and Manufacturing Process Management (MPM). The CAM system also controls different factors that involve data verification during manufacturing; panelizing the design to fit in the raw material; and editing and adding manufacturing information.

Applications of Computer Aided Manufacturing provides detailed information on Applications of Computer Aided Manufacturing, Cam And Computer Aided Design, Computer Aided Design , Computer Aided Design Scanners and more. Applications of Computer Aided Manufacturing is affiliated with Computer Aided Design and Manufacturing.

Originally posted 2007-12-04 10:18:05. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Maximizing the benefits of multi-tasking starts with a CAM software strategy that can leverage the sophistication of the machine tool.

Friday, February 01, 2008
By  John Teresko

Start with the understanding that maximizing the benefits of multi-tasking machines requires a computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) approach that takes full advantage of the machine tool’s capabilities.

Keep in mind that operations will vary from basic turning operations to complex 5-axis simultaneous milling, says mill/turn manager Olivier Thenoz of CAM specialist DP Technology Corp., Camarillo, Calif. His advice: Be as serious about the CAM software as you are with the selection of the multi-tasking equipment.

In DP’s ESPRIT software, the operation manager handles any kind of milling (up to 5-axis simultaneously) and turning operations (including pinch strategies) in the same time and with several heads/turrets. He says the CAM system must also offer support for all the optional components and the special devices of the machines. Examples: steady rests, tall stocks, part catchers, devices for the transfer of the part, special milling heads, boring devices and special tool holders.

"One of our customers cuts crankshafts with two opposite milling tools that cut simultaneously while both spindles are holding the part," he says (refer to the graphic). "The programming requires a powerful CAM system, but the time saved with this process is important."

Thenoz emphasizes his basic premise: "Multi-tasking machines are very complex and challenging to program manually." He says a good CAM system is the best way for mastering "the beast" and therefore the programmer can use the machine to its full potential. "We’re very successful programming high-end multi-tasking machines."

The multi-tasking world is rapidly evolving, Thenoz points out. "From the first single spindle, single turret mill-turn machines, many things have changed." He says machine tool manufacturers are offering multi-head and multi-spindle configurations. There are many variations of B-axis kinematics: B-axis head, index turret mounted on a B-axis tilting spindle or a B-axis on a Swiss-type lathe.

As a producer of multi-axis machining software, DP Technologies fully utilizes and supports the capabilities of the latest machine tool technology. "In order to support the latest technologies, we’re working in partnership with tooling companies," Thenoz notes.

"A primary challenge is to provide CAM systems that are easy to operate — despite the rapidly increasing complexity of the machine tools." His point: "We want the programmer to focus on the machining and not on understanding the software complexities." Automation is another DP Technology focus. "We try to offer automation for any repetitive tasks — a goal that evolves with user practice, and is intended to improve not only productivity, but quality and consistency."

CAM software for multi-tasking — such as DP’s ESPRIT software — bears conceptual similarities with software for conventional machines, notes Thenoz. "For example, someone who knows how to program a drilling operation for a vertical milling machine in ESPRIT is able to program the same operation for high-end multi-tasking machines. Regardless of the machine, individual operating definition is very similar, he adds. "The difference is in much higher requirements for process management, simulation and NC code for multi-tasking machines."

He says the programmer needs to balance the operations on the various turrets and spindles in order to reduce dead time and maximize productivity. "Simulation has to closely match the complex kinematics of the machine in order to prevent any collision. Then the NC program has to accurately reflect the calculated tool path."

Thenoz describes simulation and post-processors as two critical features for multi-tasking. "Simulation has to be accurate with full collision detection and a good representation of the machine and the cutting environment — tools, fixtures, holders. Previously, a lot of time was required to verify the NC program."

ESPRIT 2008 (announced last August) introduces a new continuous B-axis cycle that reduces the number of cutting tools required, the number of tool changes and results in a smooth, stepless surface, adds Thenoz. He says the new B-axis contouring cycle is designed specifically to achieve higher performance levels from multi-tasking machines by fully utilizing the rotational capabilities of the B-axis. While traditional lathe contouring cycles rotate the B-axis once at the start of the cut, the ESPRIT B-axis contouring cycle allows for dynamic, continuous rotation throughout the cut.

The tool follows inner and outer contours without stopping for tool changes, emphasizes Thenoz. That allows a single tool to reach areas that would otherwise be inaccessible due to the tool’s geometry. Using the new B-axis finishing cycle to reduce both the number of cutting tools and the required tool changes ultimately results in a significant savings in time and money, says Thenoz. "If you’re using one tool instead of three you could save as much as 20 seconds," says Thenoz. "If you multiply that by the number of parts you’re producing, the results can be very interesting." That’s in addition to the smooth, stepless surface.

Originally posted 2008-01-15 23:49:28. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Everything before this topic is preparation.  Machining is where the rubber meets the road.  All the steps of CNC before machining are just preparing for the machining phase of the project.  A simple definition of machining is removing material.  You remove material in various ways to come up with the part or piece.
Machining can be performed on numerous types of material.  For example, wood, steel, aluminum, and stone.  Machining generally has higher tolerances associated with it.  When machining, you are trying to do something more precise.

In machining, we use some sort of tool.  This tool could be a grinder, drill bit, end mill, router bit or other tool.  There are infinite variations of tools.  Tooling generally costs a fair amount of money.  Once you invest in your tooling though, you can use it again and again until it wears out.   If you have a large variety of different tools, you will be able to perform a large variety of machining types.

Here is a list of common tooling:
Drill bits
End mills
Plasma cutter
Dovetail cutter
Fly cutter

If you would like to look at different types of tooling, go to one of these sources on the Internet:
Enco
Travers
McMasters-Carr
Grainger

Flip through a few of these suppliers’ catalogs and you will get an idea about the infinite styles of tooling.

CNC is used in the machining process.  Generally, you can get better accuracy, quicker production, and overall efficiencies when utilizing CNC machining.  This is why it has become so popular.  In the past, CNC machining was very costly.  Over time, it has become somewhat inexpensive and now people do it as a hobby.  I am guessing that is why you are here.

Here are a few different types of machines that perform various machining processes:
Milling machines
Wood routers
Plasma cutters
Foam cutters
Press brakes
Lathes
Cutoff saws

People have successfully applied CNC to virtually any type of motion control.  The only thing that will limit you is your imagination.

Originally posted 2007-11-10 03:40:17. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

These days, digital technologies are coming into use in almost every area of our life. The high precision of machine-controlled operations coupled with extended overall reliability ensure an optimum result. Almost everything from photos to financial is becoming digital. However, some areas of process automation are somewhat neglected. Numeric control devices are an older technology than digital photography, and there are not enough quality software solutions allowing NC editing. I bet, you can easily name several all-inclusive photo editing tools, but it is still a problem to find good low-cost CNC editing software. Will the situation ever change? It has already! Introducing CNC Syntax Editor by AGG Software, the unique feature-packed NC editing software, allowing full control over your program file. CNC Syntax Editor operates as a multiple windows NC programming environment allowing you to edit, change, upload and download programs to a numerically controlled device. The application is capable of all types of ASCII CNC files and G codes, ensuring optimum performance even on larger files. CNC Syntax Editor can highlight program syntax and visually split commands and coordinates into groups, helping you to develop NC programs. Thanks to its highly configurable options, it is easily possible to customize the CNC Syntax Editor to your needs. And, thanks to its set of built-in tools, it is possible to mirror your coordinates, shift or scale axes value, switch axes, etc. The CNC Syntax Editor comes with flexible licensing options, volume discounts and even a FREE trial version!

Originally posted 2007-10-09 07:07:42. Republished by Blog Post Promoter