CNC Software controls 3-axis machining.
Press Release Summary:
Enhancements to Mastercam v9 provide control and cutting turn-around improvements for 3-axis solids machining. Multisurface and solid model flowline machining create smooth, consistent toolpath that follows natural curve of part and leaves more repeatable, uniform scallop. Smart Hybrid Remachining generates toolpath automatically that cuts areas larger tools can't reach. Other functions include automatic critical depth machining and facing.
Original Press Release:
Mastercam 3-axis, Multi-surface, Solids Machining Smoothes Out Complex Projects
(Tolland, CT - February 2002) Continuing in their tradition of developing straightforward solutions to complex problems, CNC Software announces advances in Mastercam's 3-Axis, multi-surface / solids machining. Mastercam's Gary Hargreaves explains, "With the new advantages afforded us by Version 9, we now are able to offer several new functions, which provide significant advances in precision control and cutting turn-around improvement for our 3-axis multi surface / solids machining. And all of this, within a more flexible and intelligent system that simplifies programming."
Several specific areas in 3-axis machining have been revitalized with the enhancements.
With Mastercam Version 9, multisurface and solid model flowline machining has been raised to a new power of precision and flexibility. "Initial results from the field", says Hargreaves, "report real machining improvements from the application of this new function!" The function creates a smooth, consistent toolpath that follows the natural curve of the part and leaves a more repeatable, uniform scallop.
Mr. Hargreaves adds, "What is really a very intriguing and a unique development, is SHR, smart hybrid re-machining." The SHR function generates a toolpath automatically that cut the areas a larger tool couldn't reach. Smart Hybrid Remachining will change cut strategies during a single toolpath depending on the shape of the part. For example , it will change from a "z-level" remachining method that is efficient on a steep slope to the 3D collapsing spiral method more appropriate for a flatter area. In addition, the new functions for 3D-axis machining include automatic critical depth machining and facing. Here, Mastercam will detect critical depths and machine them, preventing extra stock from being left in areas that fall between z-level rough-cuts.
"Also, with this new package, the operator can machine any CAD file directly without actually opening it in Mastercam", exclaims Mr. Hargreaves. " This is a safeguard against accidental changes to the model. And, it helps in shop-floor programming too." Hargreaves notes, "It's a typical Mastercam package - better machining with more flexibility and user efficiency features to make it practical for all companies, while producing better more efficient parts for the ultimate customer. We like to help machinists gain more control over complex projects with simplified programming of powerful software.
For more information about the Mastercam Version 9 family of products, contact CNC Software, Inc., M - F, 8 AM - 6 PM EST at (800) 228-2877 or (860) 875-5006, 671 Old Post Road, Tolland, CT 06084. Or visit Mastercam's Web Site at www.mastercam.com.
