METALWORKING
CAD/CAM Software
Increasing Productivity
Geometric Technologies’ new CAMWorks® 2010 release is the latest version
of its solid-based CNC programming software. This new software package focuses
on enhancing the machining capabilities
in turning and multiaxis milling, while
providing improvements to enable users
to program parts faster and more easily.
“Our goal for CAMWorks 2010 was
to implement numerous refinements
throughout many areas of the product that
will provide users with additional control
and improved visualization over the NC
programming process. We believe that
these changes, along with support for Win
7, will result in yet an even more productive environment for users,” said CAMWorks Director of R&D Bruce Wiener.
In turning, the ability to define vari-
able allowances along the feature pro-
vides more control, while at the same
time reduces the time and complexity
of programming. For turning and mill/
turn machining involving irregular cast-
ing stock shapes, an STL file can now
be used to represent the stock. While
creating a more realistic simulation, this
simplifies the stock definition and results
in a more efficient and predictable tool-
path, the company reports.
New Milling Techniques
Mastercam X5 introduces significant
new capabilities, including dynamic
milling techniques, multiaxis machining,
and Smart Hybrid Finishing.
Dynamic milling constantly adjusts
the toolpath to ensure the most efficient
cut possible and allows use of the entire tool flute length, often eliminating
the need for multiple-depth cuts. New
dynamic milling techniques include Dynamic Rest Mill and Dynamic Contour.
Dynamic Rest Mill behaves similarly
to the current toolpath, only it uses dynamic milling motion instead of core
mill or area mill motion for the rest operations. Dynamic Contour uses an efficient, high-speed contouring strategy to
remove material along walls. It supports
multipasses and can optionally include
finishing passes.
The multiaxis suite has new machining techniques and a new, work flow-oriented interface. With clear illustrations the software lets the user choose
the basic type of work he is doing and
then gives a step-by-step process for
defining how to cut the part. The multiaxis machining software also includes a
highly specialized interface for smooth,
gouge-free engine head porting.
New 3-D surface high-speed Opti-Rough toolpath generation is a new technique designed to remove large amounts
of material quickly using its dynamic
