The HM Waterline function combines standard waterline machining with a 3D pocketing routine. For machining molds and forming dies, Vero Software has released a new version of its multi-axis toolpath program, Machining Strategist V13. According to the developer, the new CAM software generates optimal HSM roughing and finishing CNC toolpaths that are effective in the office as well as the machine shop. Machining Strategist is described as a “CAD independent solution” that will work with data from all major 3D modeling systems. The latest release adds the option of support for Vero’s VISI 19 CAD/CAM/CAE program, and the CAD interfaces have been aligned to Parasolid v24, SolidEdge ST4, and Catia v5 r21.
Among the improvements in this version of Machining Strategist are new machining algorithms that will benefit both machine shops as well as their OEM customers. New CAM developments include “HM Waterline Passes,” a finishing strategy that combines the benefits of a standard waterline operation with a 3D pocketing routine that interacts with the main strategy whenever the shallow area between consecutive passes allows the insertion of additional passes. This method allows an optimal finish over the entire part, thereby extending tool life, and resulting in parts with high-quality surface finishes.
Also incorporated into V13 is “HM Rib Machining Passes,” a new strategy for machining very thin walls. Frequently, these wall areas are made from high-value materials (e.g., titanium for aerospace machining) so a standard approach to machining may be difficult, particularly near the end of the process when the rib endures high-frequency vibrations and micro-flexes. HM Rib Machining combines a new roughing toolpath with a finishing strategy to create a unique toolpath that should preserve the highest possible part rigidity, according to Vero.
Other improvements in this software version include enhanced helical passes, calculation speed improvements for non-smoothed waterline passes, and an ability to define different feedrates within Rest Machining and Combined Waterline for steep-and-shallow and offset passes.
"The Machining Strategist development cycle is driven by customer needs, and an ever-increasing requirement to have complete toolpath control when programming complex parts,” explained Steve Youngs, MS development manager.
