Technology News

TECHNOLOGY NEWS: SOFTWARE

CAD/CAM specialist Planit Holdings Ltd. (Ashford, Kent, UK; www.planit.com) has introduced a new version of its computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software. Known as Edgecam 2009 R1, the software can be used to program milling, turning, and mill-turn machines.

A number of new features have been included in the software that are intended to help manufacturers increase productivity. According to the firm, many of these modifications were made to accommodate requests from existing Edgecam users.

One new feature, known as associative machining technology, automatically calculates the cutting feeds and speeds for a given program, taking into consideration the tooling, the part material, and the machine-tool specification. The program automatically updates feeds and speeds if any of the parameters are changed. Furthering Edgecam’s support for five-axis machining, the software introduces a nutated head along with a rotary table configuration.

With increasing demand for rapid manufacturing, the capabilities of Edgecam Strategy Manager have been extended to improve support for twin-turret turning. A command is also available in the mill-turn environment to reduce the number of tool changes required.

Another enhancement to the software is the new rough turn cycle, which includes a stock runout function that automatically calculates the amount of overrun required when machining, and provides improved control over cut direction.

The new rest finishing cycle feature supports all milling tool types, offering tool path generation time up to 30× faster than its predecessor.

Finally, a number of smaller improvements include better handling of part files containing multiple tool paths and improved navigation through the online help files.