CAD/CAM Software imports from Catia and Autodesk Inventor.
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Press Release Summary:
Enhancements to FeatureCAM v9 include addition of FeatureWIRE(TM), CAD file import capabilities, FeatureRECOGNITION(TM), 3-axis milling techniques, 2-axis milling and drilling controls, and Visual Basic(R) programming. FeatureWIRE provides programming for 2-axis, 2-axis taper, and full 4-axis wire EDM. CAD files can be imported from CATIA(R) and Autodesk Inventor(R). FeatureRECOGNITION decreases programming time by recognizing features in imported files.
Original Press Release:
FeatureCAM(R) Version 9 Expands Product Functionality
Demonstrations at EASTEC 2002, Booth 5650
Salt Lake City, UT - FeatureCAM Version 9, manufactured by Engineering Geometry Systems (EGS), is scheduled for release in June and will be demonstrated at EASTEC 2002 in W. Springfield, Massachusetts from May 21 to May 23. Version 9 expands product functionality with the recently released FeatureWIRE(TM) product, additional CAD file import capabilities, enhanced FeatureRECOGNITION(TM) functions, powerful 3-axis milling techniques, and additional 2-axis milling and drilling controls. Version 9 also provides customers more control with Visual Basic(R)* programming interface and default attributes saving.
FeatureWIRE
With the same feature-based and knowledge-based technologies signature of FeatureCAM products, FeatureWIRE provides programming for 2-axis, 2-axis taper, and full 4-axis wire EDM. FeatureWIRE functionality includes support for skim cuts, no-core cutting, and the creation of gears and cams. For 2-axis parts, constant and variable taper are supported. For 4-axis parts, points from the upper and lower curves can be matched to specify synchronization points.
Direct CAD Import
With the optional CATIA Direct Import, customers can import native CATIA(R)* files directly into FeatureCAM. Version 9 also allows customers to import native files from Autodesk Inventor(R)*. This capability is included with FeatureCAM products at no additional charge.
Enhanced FeatureRECOGNITION
FeatureRECOGNITION significantly decreases programming time by automatically recognizing features in imported files. Version 9 provides advanced automatic pocket recognition, including the recognition of pockets with bottom radii and islands. Version 9 also includes FeatureRECOGNITION capabilities for turned, 4-axis indexing, and turn/mill parts. In addition, recognition is configurable. Customers can specify the recognition of feature types based on properties such as surface color, diameter, etc.
Powerful 3-Axis Milling Techniques
FeatureCAM Version 9 includes z-level semi-finish. Sometimes referred to as re-roughing, the semi-finishing operation occurs between roughing and finishing. It better prepares the surface for finishing and accomplishes this without cutting air, resulting in better machining. Version 9 also includes Z-level rough with full support of undercuts and support for ball-end bull-nose tools, providing better preparation for finish cuts. Other 3-axis milling techniques added are plunge roughing, spiral boundary, and combo remachining.
Additional 2-Axis Milling and Drilling Controls
With Version 9, customers have the ability to control the milling start location and the point of the finishing toolpath. They can also assign separate settings for bottom and side finishing and can use a Z increment or horizontal stepover for chamfer features. Customers can also choose any cycle for a drilling operation, with simple and precise control over retract planes. Support for Fanuc(R)* G98 and G99 has also been added.
Visual Basic Application Programming Interface (API)
Using the new Visual Basic programming interface, FeatureCAM can be rapidly tailored to a customer's specific requirements, making the software easier to use for each individual customer. FeatureCAM can be tailored to match the way each customer works and thinks about part programming. This results in reduced training requirements, fewer errors during part programming, and shorter programming times.
Saving Default Attributes
With Version 9, customers can now save default attributes such as tooling and feeds and speeds with each part file. This gives customers the flexibility to transfer part files to any PC, with the same results every time.
FeatureCAM products include FeatureMILL2.5D(R), FeatureMILL3D(R), FeatureTURN(R), FeatureTURN/MILL(R), FeatureWIRE(TM), FeatureRECOGNITION(TM), Solid Modeling, Tombstone Machining, 5-Axis Positioning, and Catia Direct Import. For more information, please call 1.888.393.6455 or visit www.featurecam.com.
*Visual Basic is a tradename of Microsoft Corporation. CATIA is a tradename of Dassault Systemes. Inventor is a tradename of Autodesk, Inc. Fanuc is a tradename of Fanuc Ltd.
