ModuleWorks, the leading supplier of CAD/CAM components for 5-Axis machining and CNC simulation, will show the latest version of its CAM components, version 2014.08 at IMTS, the International Manufacturing Technology Show 2014, (booth E-3133) in Chicago from 8-13th September 2014.

ModuleWorks is at the forefront of 5-Axis machining and Simulation technology, providing the machining and simulation technology that powers many of the popular CAM systems available today. Each ModuleWorks release contains many new and enhanced features across the product range and this latest version includes new features for 5-Axis, 3-Axis, Port Machining and Simulation. At IMTS, they will be showing the latest release of their component technology; highlights are shown below:

5-Axis Machining

5-Axis SWARF sees a number of improvements to improve efficiency and flexibility.
It now features a built in transform capability to allow repeated rotation or translation of the main toolpath, particularly useful for parts with a regular pattern of duplicated features such as blades. In addition the SWARF also has the option to convert all rapid motion to high federate to provide a smoother overall toolpath motion.

Port Machining now offers an optimized tilt option to minimize the tilt while retaining access to all accessible areas in the port. Less tilting means a more efficient toolpath with reduced potential for collisions. The mesh based undercut machining now incorporates the option to tilt to reach undercut areas. This allows more standard tooling shapes to be used on complex components, increasing efficiency and reducing tooling costs. Automatic collision avoidance is built in to ensure safe operation.

3-Axis Machining

There are many detail improvements across the range of 3-Axis STL mesh and 2.5D wire frame toolpaths. These are focused on toolpath efficiency, flexibility and performance.

3-Axis parallel finishing now offers a round corner option to eliminate sharp changes in direction and provide smoother motion on the machine tool. Adaptive roughing now provides improved linking with motion designed to reduce air cutting and smoother entry onto material.

2.5D wire frame machining now allows heights of profiles to be defined to build up a pocket and boss hierarchy. These heights are observed during toolpath generation and linking to make it easier to machine many profiles in fewer steps with an optimal toolpath. There is also improved corner handling for sharp corners to prevent any rounding of the finished part. This is particularly useful for laser applications. Performance improvements have been achieved in a number of areas, notably roughing where an order of magnitude improvement has been delivered.

Simulation

The Machine Simulation application now has a brand new ribbon interface in keeping with many of the latest Microsoft Windows applications. The traditional toolbar interface is still available but we expect most customers to prefer the newer style interface.

Visualization of stock removal has been improved. The flute color of the tool now matches the color defined in the analysis table giving a cleaner look and more obvious connection between the tool and the stock removed by it. In addition to this, the final cut model is automatically refined once calculated to improve quality and definition of smaller features. The simulation engine now provides support for laser type applications widening the range of different manufacturing disciplines that can be supported still further. The 2014.08 release is now available to all partners from the customer download area at www.ModuleWorks.com