ModuleWorks, the leading supplier of CAD/CAM components for toolpath generation and simulation, is pleased to announce the latest release of its CAM components, version 2009.3. The release offers a wide range of new features across the product range, further expanding capability for the different areas of 3-5 Axis toolpath creation and machine simulation.
The 3-Axis machining component adds new options for toolpath control in roughing as shown in the illustrations below. Aimed at maintaining a smooth motion and constant feedrate, roughing allows corner motion to be smoothed and new ‘S’ shape link moves to be generated between passes. Smoothing is also an option for the final pass but separate control is provided for maximum flexibility. Finally, a ‘remove corner peg’ control is used to ensure complete material removal, especially useful when higher stopovers are employed.
The market leading 4 and 5-Axis machining components have been further refined with improvements are focussed on toolpath control, particular during linking and collision avoidance motion. Link control now has the ability to follow stock when connecting larger gaps; this has the benefit of being safe while minimising the motion during the link move.
ModuleWorks Simulation includes new backplot control to help visualise and optimise toolpath motion. Leads and link moves may be switched off and control is now provided to allow a limited number of toolpath segments to be displayed at any one time. These features improve visualisation of the toolpath and allow users to better understand tool motion in the virtual world.
David Plater, Technical Director comments “We’ve followed the strategy from the previous releases by providing a range of productivity improvements across the product range, much of it based on feedback from our partners. The beta releases have been well received and many partners have already begun incorporating the new features in their own products”