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[July 2000]
Greater Flexibility and Productivity from Delcam
Total machining flexibility has been made possible by the introduction of the PowerMILL Sketcher, says Delcam. This incorporates functionality from Delcam’s PowerSHAPE CAD software.
This allows the operator to define any 2D or 3D curve and then use this as the basis for machining. For example, the curve could be used as the starting pattern for a series of offset machining paths, or to create the boundary for any multi-surface machining operation. The Sketcher can also be used to edit all the wire-frame data produced by PowerMILL, including boundaries and toolpaths, to generate the optimum NC performance.
Additionally, during the summer, the new PowerMILL 3 will feature two new shading options to allow users to check imported models before commencing toolpath calculations. The first option is undercut shading, which allows the user to check the model for undercuts. Undercuts may result from inaccurate or incomplete models that will need to be reviewed with the customer.
If they are intentional, they will require the use of disk cutters or five-axis machining and the extra costs involved will need to be included in the quote. The same shading option can also be used to check that there is sufficient draft on the tool being machined, and to ensure that the correct alignment has been set for 3-plus-2 machining.
For further information go to www.delcam.com.
ENDS