Recent

OPEN MIND Technologies
Renishaw
GF Machining Solutions
Nataliia Mysik | Dreamstim
HGG Profiling Equipment
The ProCAM suite features: ProCAD providing direct connection to and from several leading CAD/CAMs; ProGRAM, for programming parts with manual data input (MDI); ProMIS management information system that uses real-time machine data to create reports on cutting performance, processing speeds and productivity; and ProQMS to create digital documentation of quality control measurements and accuracy checks.
SprutCAM
SprutCAM Ency virtual AI assistant.
NUM AG
The NUMroto X program has been rewritten to allow implementation of demanding requirements for tool grinding and enables use of the latest possibilities and functions of modern computer systems.
ModuleWorks
ModuleWorks’ Manufacturing Data Exchange Specification (MDES) for a seamless digital manufacturing workflow.
ECM PCB Stator Technology
Cutaway view of the ECM PCB Stator Technology 3-hp pump motor stator prototype.
  1. CAD and CAM

Optimized Five-Axis Toolpaths in CAD/CAM Update

May 28, 2014
Using 2014 R2, operators can optimize five-axis toolpaths to specific machine configurations and rotational axis limits. As this is carried out at an operational level, any changes to the toolpath data or machine configuration will be highlighted and the operation can be easily updated and re-optimized.

Vero Software’s Alphacam is a CAD/CAM suite for metalworking operations, as well as woodworking and stone cutting — modules include Routing, Milling, Turning for two- through five-axis machining — and described by the developers as a program that emphasizes productivity, reliability, and flexibility for programmers and CNC operators.

The latest Alphacam release, 2014 R2, includes several improvements to the five-axis toolpath functions, as well as the ability to convert 2D design data to a 3D model automatically.

Updates to the Feature Extraction function bring new user benefits, and several more new and enhanced features demonstrate Alphacam’s productivity and flexibility for manufacturing, and support for manufacturers’ profitability efforts.

“There are a number of exciting new developments in Alphacam 2014 R2,” general manager Nick Spurrett said, “including the ability to optimize five-axis toolpaths to a specific machine configuration; and Part Modeler has been enhanced to convert DXF and DWG 2D drawings into 3D models.”

Using 2014 R2, operators can optimize five-axis toolpaths to specific machine configurations and rotational axis limits. While this is ongoing at the operating level, any changes to the toolpath data or machine configuration will be highlighted at the programming level, and the toolpaths can be updated and “re-optimized” easily.

Another change involves the tooling Machine Angles functions, now improved and available as Element attributes for post-processing. These functions also drive the new simulator views. The complete operation is analyzed against the user settings, and where required the toolpath will be split into separate sections automatically, with options to maintain Feed Down and Lead In/Out settings on the modified toolpaths.

Vero Software designs, develops, and supplies CAD/CAM/CAE software for design and manufacturing processes, including Alphacam, Cabinet Vision, Edgecam, Machining Strategist, PEPS, Radan, Smirt, SurfCAM, WorkNC and VISI, along with the production control MRP system Javelin.

View more American Machinist Galleries

About the Author

Robert Brooks | Content Director

Robert Brooks has been a business-to-business reporter, writer, editor, and columnist for more than 20 years, specializing in the primary metal and basic manufacturing industries.