CAD/CAM Software | Cimatron Software

Solids CAD/CAM software

Life is getting easier for designers as new software takes on more and more of their work. It's now possible to make complex shapes, blend elements of several parts, and do some reverse engineering, all with one CAD/CAM package. One example is version 8.0 of Cimatron software that handles design through manufacturing, available from Cimatron Ltd. (Burlington, Ontario). Cimatron is an integrated 3-D mechanical engineering CAD/CAM software package for both Windows and Unix. Application modules for conceptual design, engineering, rendering, and manufacturing all present the same interface to the user. The software is configured for advanced wire frame, surface, solid design, and two to five axis machining. Version 8.0 lets the designer integrate design software with manufacturing software to machine surface, solid, or hybrid models. All geometry can be used in one hybrid modeling environment for maximum design efficiency.

The design modules have two new functions for moldmakers: Split divides the part along any plane users select and automatically applies mold drafts, and the Reference Face option applies draft to faces abutting a curved surface. When constructing models in Solid Sketcher, users can modify geometrical dimensions and constraints dynamically. Smart shell generation automatically solves tight areas and rounded corners where shell walls overlap. Surface and spline tools now create nurbs entities. The fillet function benefits from nurbs modeling. For example, curve-to-surface fillets are now possible, and fillets may be keyed to control curves to define section orientation. It is easier to manage complex solid construction and assemblies. Flexible assembly management tools support top-down or bottom-up assembly, with exploded assembly views, sections, and detail views. New functions check interference for one or all components.

The improved NC machining module generates machine code directly from mixed solid, surface, and wire frame models. This frees engineers to use various modeling tools at will on complex partsand be assured of seamless NC toolpaths for the entire design. Because the integrated database structure unites design and machining data, NC-on-solid toolpaths change as the underlying parametric model is altered. The model can be analyzed to improve machining with tools such as WCUT. WCUT automatically adds additional layers between userdefined stepped planes in order to maintain the desired semifinish quality. Knowledge-based algorithms in the Core/pocket option optimize milling electrode geometries. The gouge checking feature has been improved to spot gouging caused by either conic tools or the toolholder. The new Up OnlyDown Only option is a shortcut that structures toolpaths containing only up or down motions. Tool parameters and cutting modes are stored as ASCII files, independent of part files, for application to other parts. Circle 201.

Copyright Society of Manufacturing Engineers May 1997
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