Delcam to Show Latest in CADCAM for Composites at Composites Europe
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Delcam will demonstrate the latest developments in its CADCAM systems for the composites industry at the Composites Europe exhibition to be held in Essen, Germany, from 20th to 22nd September. Special features on display for the design and manufacture of composite components will include methods for the generation of 2D patterns for prepregs from 3D models of components, improved nesting to ensure the most economic use of materials cut from sheet and an increased range of five-axis machining methods, both for the manufacture of patterns and tooling and also for the trimming and drilling of moulded parts.
While Delcam's software is best known for its applications with injection moulded plastics products, it is also used extensively for the design, manufacture and inspection of composites. Its offers particular benefits in the development of products where aerodynamics or ergonomics are key considerations and in the manufacture of all types of tooling, including moulds and patterns.
In all these area, the software enables companies to maximise their profitability by increasing productivity, improving quality and reducing lead times. Successful applications include the manufacture of composite components for the autosport and luxury car industries, the production of aerospace lay-up tools, and the machining of patterns and tooling for compression moulding and reaction injection moulding.
The special methods for the generation of 2D patterns from 3D CAD models within Delcam's PowerSHAPE CAD system are based on un-wrapping techniques first developed for the footwear industry to allow the cutting of leather shapes from shoe designs. They provide quick and easy methods for the creation of the prepreg designs needed for the manufacture of complex, curved shapes. The 2D patterns can then be arranged to give the most cost-effective use of material with Delcam's nesting functionality.
The range of five-axis machining methods in Delcam's PowerMILL CAM software gives the user better control over cutting conditions as well as helping to minimise excessive movement of the machine head that can reduce machining rates. Five-axis drilling has recently been improved to give faster drilling and more comprehensive hole recognition from a wider range of CAD systems.
As well as incorporating comprehensive gouge protection, PowerMILL's machining simulation option offers collision checking between the various parts of the machine tool and the model. The simulations will also indicate any areas where the machine tool is attempting to move outside its operating parameters, again helping to ensure that what is seen on the computer is exactly what will happen on the factory floor.
