cam guide

1 Machining/CNC/CAM Guide © 2006 ConnectPress, Ltd.; all rights reserved

2006 Machining/CNC/CAM Roundup: Vendors Reference Guide

December 2006 A designer can use the most sophisticated tools available to make the most intricate and detailed models. A design can be tested, modeled, altered, and shared among the office with the latest software on the market. But until it is sent to a machine shop to be built, it is still just a design. Welcome to CAM, where digital designs cross the boundary from CAD to real-world parts and products. In our 2006 Roundup we have an overview story detailing the background of CAM, as well as discussions of two upcoming issues in the field, the loss of experienced machinists and the possibility of one day exporting CAD geometry directly to the machine tools. In addition to the overview stories is a profile of local machine shop CNC Lathe Specialties and an interview with its owner Kevin Burrows. Also, included is an interview with Brad Cleveland CEO of Protomold where he explains how a secret process is changing the way molded parts are made. We also have two white papers one detailing the trend towards digital manufacturing and another that explains how digital laser scanning can streamline the production process. To complete the package is our annual CAM vendor’s guide with information on over 20 different companies.


Questionnaire Applied Production Bob CAD/CAM CG Technologies Product Name? ProFab BobCAD-CAM 21, BobWire,

BobNest, BobART VERICUT

Which Native CAD files can your product read?

None, We include a direct interface to AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Solid Edge, & KeyCreator.

* SolidWorks / .sld prt * AutoCAD DWG * Rhino CAD 3DM

Native interfaces to CATIA V4 & V5, EdgeCAM, MasterCAM, Pro/E, UGS

Which Neutral CAD files can your product read?

DXF Parasolids x-t & x-b, STEP, DXF, IGES, SAT, JPG, GIF, TIFF, BMT

Import: STEP, ACIS, IGES, DXF, VDA, STL models; Reads APT CL, any NC program format.

Data type product uses? Reads the CAD data and then builds it into shapes. All programming work is then done on these shapes, not the individual lines and arcs.

ASCII Text CDA-CAM Solid models or surface models

5 unique or strongest PRE-PROCESSING features?

There is no preprocessing. ProFab takes the data as is and figures out what to do from the data.

Windows Environment, Runs on 1.4 GHZ /512 MB RAM, Automatic Updating Service, No Dongle, No Maintenance Fees

Native CAD/CAM interfaces allow user easily setup VERICUT within CAD prog; Easy to build a virtual CNC machine for sim. Library 100s control models; Can graphically model complex tool assemblies for simulation; Complex & advanced CNC control & NC program features simulated; User interface can be customized.

5 unique or strongest PROCESSING features?

Automatic tool selection, interactive capability to arrange the sequence any way you like, machine cycle optimization, Feature editing option, copying parts with the tooling data.

Automatic Geometry Cleanup/Erase Doubles, Automatic Hole Removal, Pocketing with island avoidance, Automatic Spiral & Horizontal toolpath, 2D & 3D Tool Path, Drawing Tools for rectangle, Gear Generation, Hole Patterns, Thread and lead IN/OUT

Fast, consistent process regardless # of motions in NC prog. or file size; Accurately reps machine's motions; Material removal, collision detection algorithms; simulate NC programs with millions of cuts; Creates accurate, measurable cut features from mach. operations; Collision detection logic, cont. dynamic checking all moving comps; Best graphics quality; photorealistic images of workpiece, simulation.

5 unique or strongest POST-PROCESSING features?

There is only one feature to our post processors: to generate the correct code for the machine including all the machines optional bells and whistles.

No Cost, Free Customization, User is Able to edit while in CAD window, Run Time Estimate, Automatic Lead In/Out

Simulate unlimited linear, rotary axes

How many and which axes can your product handle?

Turret punch presses and laser machines (2 axis)

2 Axis Lathe, 3 Axis Milling, 4 Axis Wire, 4th Axis Wrapping

Features provide easy error identification, AUTO-DIFF module comparison between desired finished results (CAD model), sim cut workpiece, OptiPath mod optimized NC prog. best feed rates, spindle speeds, All aspects of simulation captured; can be shown in user-customizable docs, Identify features to inspect and inspection methods, create report.

Communication options? Works with most DNC software. RS 232 N/A

Help/Support tools? Phone, Fax, Email, and Internet Downloadable Tutorials, Self Paced Training CDs, Help Files, Internet Live Tech Support, In-House, On-Site & Live Internet Training

Tutorials, online files, phone & e-mail support, training classes, custom machine configurations.

Simulation capabilities? ProFab displays the machine cycle and allows you to edit it if need be.

N/A Sim, verification; optimization; analysis

Operating system? Windows N/A Windows XP/2000/XP64, IBM AIX, HP-UX, Sun Solaris

Minimum hardware requirements?

Standard Windows based computer N/A 1GHz or faster processor; 512MB RAM; 16K color graphics card

Price? $2,500 and up Contact Company Contact company

Web address www.AppliedProduction.com www.bobcad.com www.cgtech.com

Contact Joe Bucalo Robert Brucker Bryan Jacobs

Email [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Phone 513-831-8800 727-489-0003 949.753.1050

http://www.appliedproduction.com/

http://www.bobcad.com/

http://www.cgtech.com/

mailto:[email protected]




Questionnaire Cimatron Technologies Concepts NREC Datakit Product Name? CimatronE MAX: 5, AB, SI and PAC CROSSCAD by DATAKIT Which Native CAD files can your product read?

CATIA V4, CATIA V5, UGS, Pro/E, SolidWorks, Parasolids

None Pro/E: 2D & 3D; UGS: 2D & 3D, Step; CATIA: V4 2D & 3D, V5 2D, V5 3D; Parasolid : 3D; Solid Edge: 3D; Solidworks: 3D; Medusa: 2D; Empower 3D; Unisurf 3D; Acis 3D; Cadds 3D, Inventor 3D; Microstation; JT; RhinoV3; Dwg:2D & 3D


IGS, STEP, VDA, SAT, DWG, DXF, STL

IGES, Parasolid import through CAD Translator module, text tables of surface grid data in special format

IGES, Dxf 2D, Vda 3D, Set 3D, Step, STL

Data type product uses? Surfaces, Solids, less than perfect imported data. (Hybrid system)

Wireframe, surface 2D, 3D, wireframe, solid, surface, attributes, features, history of construction, data of dimensioning, annotations and tolerancing (FD&T) and specifics dedicated to certain fields


Fully associative between CAD, CAM and Drafting; Strong tools for Engineering changes; Highly efficient electrode solution; Powerful Hybrid modeling tools in NC.

Creates model automatically from geometric data tables, various styles of round blade edges automatically, variable fillets automatically, added stock models automatically, No required drive surfaces or curves for cutter orientation

Not concerned


Realtime Stock tracking; Simple to use machining templates; Unique machining strategies; Excellent High Speed solution; Multi threaded programming for fast 5 axis calculation.

Automatic tool-path creation by choosing strategies optimized for impellers and blisks from 20+ years of customer feedback, Patented collision detection and avoidance, Supports “lollipop” style cutters for deep cavity milling, Patented method for accurate flank-milling of ruled surfaces, Available plunge-mill roughing

Get critical information needed to build a part or an assembly and to visualize, measure or modify the relevant files. Advanced native translators. More than 140 translators are available as stand alones or plug-ins. Multiplatform and a modular and deep range of data exchange solutions. The translators benefit regular updates and upgrades to take into account new releases of Cad software and new format.


2, 3, 4 & 5 Axis Coordinated motion in five axes, Tool vectors smoothed to reduce machine acceleration spikes, Analyzes and avoids machine axis reversals, Fillet “rest-material” removal available, Verification module includes patented “cutter view,” look down tool axis with part moving

Not concerned


Excellent simulation, Easy Post modification, NC code optimization, Adaptive Feed control, Fast implementation of design revisions and changes.

3 through 5-axis continuous, positioning 6th axis available

Not concerned

Communication options? No N/A Translators can be used by end users or integrated as components by Software companies

Help/Support tools? Context sensitive Help; Remote web access support; Tech-Support staff w/extensive, industry experience.

Free personalized training, tutorials, online HELP files, electronic or printed manual, email or phone support

Help on line, webinars, integration material is available for Software companies

Simulation capabilities? Yes P3MAX module for animated surface-mode verification and VERICUT-compatible toolpaths, STK and design files

Preview is available for most of the translators

Operating system? Windows 2000, XP, Windows XP64 Microsoft Windows XP/2000/NT Windows, Linux Minimum hardware requirements?

Pentium 4; 2GB Ram; 128mb video card

Any modern PC None

Price? Average = $15,000 Annual license - $17,500; perpetual license available

Depends on translators. Bundles are available

Web address www.cimatrontech.com www.conceptsnrec.com www.datakit.comContact Lisa Sterling Mel Platt Francis Cadin Email [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] N/A 781-937-4646 805-722-2780

http://www.conceptsnrec.com/

http://www.datakit.com/




Questionnaire Delcam DELMIA EdgeCAM Product Name? PowerMILL DPM Machining , NC Machine tool

builder, NC Machine Simulation EdgeCAM: Solid Machinist, Part Modeler, Strategy Manager


CATIA, UGS, Pro/E, AutoCAD, Inventor, SolidWorks, Solid Edge, SDRC, Cimatron, Rhino

Solutions are Multi-CAD compatible Inventor, SolidWorks, Solid Edge, Pro/Engineer, Pro/Desktop CATIA


IGES, STEP, Parasolid, ACIS, VDA-FS, STL

STEP, PARASOLIDS, IGES, STL IGES, DXF, DWG, STL, VDA-FS 2, ACIS, Parasolid, Granite

Data type product uses? Surfaces, solids, features N/A N/A 5 unique or strongest PRE-PROCESSING features?

Fast accurate data translation Very tolerant of poor-quality data, Comprehensive range of model repair options, Ability to use arbitrary stock size, Automatic recognition of holes and other features

Automatic Feature recognition & feature knowledge build-up

Solids integration with leading CAD packages, Automatic feature recognition, each kernel is licensed and natively used in EdgeCAM, the toolpath remains associative to the original CAD model, so if the CAD model changes it notifies the user and at a click automatically updates the toolpath to the changes. Automation of repetitive machining with flow-chart technology


Wide range of machining strategies, especially for high-speed and five-axis machining Flexible editing to optimize efficiency Fast calculation and re-calculation times Support for wide variety of cutter types Efficient ordering of toolpaths to minimize air cutting.

Feature mapping into process definition Single environment, EdgeCAM has integrated mill – turn processing, Feature driven tool paths, Tool path which are associative with native 3D model revisions. Tool Path control, Free points or Geometry related positions. Full integration from the Tool library complete with Technology data to the Machine kinematics.


Proven, reliable posts available for most standard machine tools Support for many CAM cycles Fast generation of G-code from CAM toolpaths All posts fully customizable Post-writing service for non-standard machines

Process to feature associative link maintained

Post processors are integrated, but not limited by a CL file. Creation or Editing of post processors using a graphic user interface. Easy for the end user to make or edit the post processor. Code Wizard. Support for our entire product via the code wizard. 20+ years of post processor creation, providing Clean posts. Machine graphics and kinematics.


2- to 5-axis, including positional and continuous 5-axis

More than 5-axis milling machines Full support for multi-axis milling, 4-axis rotary machining, 3-axis machining plus, 2-axis simultaneous indexing and 5-axis machining, Milling – 2 - 5 axis, up to 5 axis simultaneous, Turning – 2 - 4 axis, Mill/Turn – C, Y & B, with 5 axis simultaneous.

Communication options? DNC and similar devices supported N/A Comms Setup Wizard Software Help/Support tools? Context-sensitive help, "Getting

Started" doc, "What's New" publication with new releases, Local phone support from 150 offices worldwide Download site for new versions User forum.

On-line documentation & hotline support & intuitive messages

Help files and tutorial support website, Reseller and Direct Tech Support staff, software maintenance updates, training classes and handbooks.

Simulation capabilities? Full simulation and verification for machine tools, Design capability to add new machine tools, High-res simulation

Collision detection, upfront integration of machine device with process, machine reach ability tests, direct post processing & interactive collision avoidance.

EdgeCAM Simulator – 3d visualization w/ full machine tool movement

Operating system? Windows XP UNIX, Windows Windows 2000 SP4 and XP Pro Minimum hardware requirements?

1 Gb RAM, Pentium 4 or AMD Opteron processor, NVIDIA Graphics

800GHz, 500Mb Ram Current Intel Pentium compatible, Min. 512mb of RAM, 1GB disk space, Graphics card capable of 1280 x 1024 high color and 64mb memory, 17” color monitor or larger, Mouse – with wheel, Spaceball, Explorer 5 or above, Parallel or USB port for EdgeCAM security key, .NET Framework version 1.1 or higher

Price? From US$ 9750 Contact company EdgeCAM is a modular based pricing Web address www.delcam.com www.delmia.com www.edgecam.comContact Peter Dickin NC Kishore Tracy Pringle Email [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 519-974-8088 or +44-121-766-5544 248 205 5273 248-356-8800 or 866-433-4322

www.delcam.com

http://www.delmia.com/

http://www.edgecam.com/





Questionnaire EZ-CAM FeatureCAM Gibbs & Associates

Product Name? EZ-CAM Products—EZ-MILL, EZ-TURN, EZ-EDM, TextCAM, FilterMAX

FeatureMILL, FeatureTURN, FeatureWIRE, FeatureRECOGNITION

GibbsCAM


Rhino 3DM, SolidWorks SLDPRT & SLDASM

SolidWorks, SolidWorks Assemblies, Inventor, SolidEdge, UGS, CATIA V4, CATIA V5, Pro/E

AutoCAD DXF/DWG & Mechanical Desktop, Inventor, CATIA V4 & V5, Wildfire, Rhino, Solid Edge, SolidWorks


DXF, DWG, IGES, STL, Parasolid, ACIS

STEP, Parasolid, ACIS, IGES, DWG, DXF, VDA

ACIS, Parasolid, IGES, STEP AP203 & AP214, VDA-FS

Data type product uses? Wireframe, Surface, Solid, and Mesh Solids, surfaces, wireframe Point lists, Wireframe, Surface, Solids


Integrated CAD with Dynamic Preview and multiple Construction / Machining Coordinate Systems, Copy/Paste Rhinoceros wireframe and solids, Integrated Spreadsheet Operations Manager, Visual Basic Automation Interface, Gears/Splines/Cams Geometry Creation

Powerful importing options with all CAD programs, Feature-based programming allows you to program by identifying 10-20 features instead, Windows-based wizards, icons, and menus, Part library recall lets you save all or part of your programming for future parts, Parametric Modeling for editing parts and FeatureCAM updates the program automatically, create families of parts.

Extensive range of powerful capabilities to import data. Integrated manufacturing modeling. Profiler supports interactive features identification. Automated Feature Recognition of holes. Geometry Wizard – spreadsheet for creating geometry.


Projection Machining cycles: smoother finish using analytical surface calculation compared to faceting methods. 4th axis featues: wrapping with 2D or 3D curves using Radial Wall option and Surface Machining. Thread Milling with custom parameters. 3D Profiling: Left/Right Offset. Engraving cycle: TrueType fonts as tangent arcs.

Feature Recognition takes parts from imported solid models to NC code. True knowledge programming once features and material are identified, FeatureCAM determines roughing and finishing passes. Automatic tool selection. Powerful 3D machining strategies customize the machining processes.

Powerful range of capabilities that is easy to use. Associativity between geometry processes and toolpath supports iterative improvements. Hole Wizard – automatically generate hole processes. Multiple Process Programming. Store/Retrieve Process.


Libraries have hundreds of post-processors. Post Processor Editor: unlimited power with VB interface. Postprocessor includes Feedrate optimization for sharp corner deceleration and for max horsepower, Toolpath optimizer converts point-to-point G-code to tangent arc moves or NURBS, files that are up to 98% shorter. G-Code to DXF conversion.

Thousands of post processors included with the software at no additional cost. Ability to create new posts or edit existing posts included with software. Custom post processors provided with maintenance. Powerful simulation options including 3D RapidCut and Part Comparison. Feed rate optimization based on tool loads.

What-you-see-is-what-you-machine factory supplied posts. Configure your own template-based posts. APT CL support. Supports sub-routines. Supports canned cycles


Milling: 2-4 axis simultaneous, 5 axis indexing. Turning: 2-4 axis simultaneous Wire EDM: 2-4 axis simultaneous, 5 axis indexing

2-, 3-, 4-axis and 5-axis positioning Unlimited and all

Communication options? EZ-DNC Express G-Code Editor and RS232 comm module with customizable DNC parameters.

RS-232, DNC and similar Serial & Network communication, Physical file exchange

Help/Support tools? Getting Started Book with Introductory Tutorials, Comprehensive On-Line HelpSpecial Purpose Tutorials as PDF Files ”Show Me” Animated Tutorials

Toll-free phone and email support. Live online training classes, onsite training classes and automatic upgrades.

Balloon Context Sensitive Help, Context Sensitive On-Line Docs, Internet Support Center & Solutions Knowledge, Internet Discussion Groups

Simulation capabilities? Graphic Toolpath Verification Plotting, tool holder display. Solids Simulation Toolpath Verification

Wireframe, 2D, 3D, 3D Rapid Cut, Part Compare, Metallic

Process Simulation, Machine Simulation

Operating system? Windows 98 or higher Windows 2000, XP and above Windows 2000, Windows XP


Pentium class processor Memory: 512 or higher Hard disk space: 80 meg or more 32-bit Color Graphic Adapter with Open-GL support

Pentium 4, 512 MB RAM, 500 MB Hard Disk Space, 1024 x 768 Display, 16-bit Resolution, 32 MB Graphics Memory

Depends on configuration. Contact vendor.

Price? Express packages $1000. Inquire on other pricing

Starts at $3,000 Contact vendor.

Web address www.ezcam.com www.featurecam.com www.GibbsCAM.com

Contact Christopher Lalashius Blaine Duke Sales Department

Email [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Phone 212-452-2460 877.DELCAM1 (877.335.2261) (805) 523-0004 or (800) 654-9399

http://www.ezcam.com/

http://www.featurecam.com/

http://www.gibbscam.com/





Questionnaire ICAM IMS MasterCAM Product Name? CAM-POST, Virtual Machine, Control

Emulator IMSpost, IMSverify MasterCAM


N/A APT/CL from all major CAD/CAM systems

AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Solid Edge, CATIA, Pro/E, Rhino


N/A STL, APT/CL IGES, Parasolid, ACIS

Data type product uses? N/A Machine G-code, APT/CL, STL N/A 5 unique or strongest PRE-PROCESSING features?

N/A N/A N/A


N/A CNC verification with solids material removal, full machine simulation with collision detection.

Fully associative toolpaths. High-speed machining suite. Change recognition. Advanced multi-axis toolpaths. Full machining of any file type.


Supports all major CAD/CAM/PLM S, CNC controllers and machine tools; Forward-looking optimization with path planning, rotary axes pre-positioning and winding, over-traveling and rotary repositioning; Supports advanced machine tool features like tool-tip programming, Coordinate frame transformations, NURBS interpolation and arc fitting of point-to-point data; comprehensive "point and click" Wizard to generate advanced NC post-processors quickly and effectively.

NC post-processing to convert APT/CL from all major CAD/CAM systems to G-code for any machine tool.

N/A


2-3 axes machining to multi-axes apps. Unlimited linear and rotary axes Full 2-through 5-axis

Communication options? N/A N/A N/A Help/Support tools? Comprehensive on-line help. Printed

User Guides. Annual Maintenance and Support for product updates and technical support by phone, email & fax

Full online help & printed documentation

Full interactive help

Simulation capabilities? Virtual Machine unites advanced NC post-processing, CAM-POST, graphical machine tool simulator, one integrated platform. Virtual Machine enables NC programmers to graphically simulate and test programs easily and automatically.

Full CNC machine simulation with collision detection

Solids-based verification as well as toolpath backplotting

Operating system? Windows 2000/XP/2003, HP-UX, IBM-AIX, Sun Solaris 2, SGI-IRIX

Windows (IMSpost, IMSverify), UNIX (SGI, HP, Sun, IBM) (IMSpost), Linux (IMSpost)

Windows XP or better


Minimal hardware capacity is required IMSpost N/A, IMSverify: recommended 1GB memory, high-end graphics card

512 Mb RAM, 1Gb available hard drive space.

Price? N/A $2,000US - $30,000US Contact company Web address www.icam.com www.ims-software.com www.mastercam.comContact Phil Masella Andy Brewster N/A Email [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 514-697-8033 978-556-0077 800-228-2877

http://www.icam.com/

http://www.ims-software.com/

http://www.mastercam.com/





Questionnaire Open Mind Tech. PartMaker Precision CAD/CAM Product Name? hyperMILL®, hyperMILL® in

thinkDesign®, hyperMILL® in Inventor®, hyperMILL® in Wildfire

PartMaker, PartMaker: Mill, SwissCAM, Turn, Turn-Mill, WireEDM

DP Technology; SolidMill includes: Production, FreeForm, FreeForm 5-Axis; SolidWire includes: Gold, Platinum, Platinum plus; SolidTurn includes: Traditional, Production; SolidMillTurn includes: Tradtional, Advanced, Production, FreeForm, FreeForm 5-Axis


Inventor, Pro/E Wildfire, SolidWorks, CATIA V4 &V5, UGS. Actual formats read may depend on which hyperMILL platform is used.

SolidWorks, Pro/E, Inventor UGS, CATIA 4 & 5, Pro/E, SolidWorks, SolidEdge, Autocad


IGES, STEP, Parasolids, VDA, Point lists

DXF, Parasolid, STEP STL, ACIS, X_T, X_B, IGES, DXF, STEP, VDA

Data type product uses? Cutter path generation for NC machining N/A WireFrame, Surface, Solid 5 unique or strongest PRE-PROCESSING features?

Automatic Geometric Feature recognitions. Parametric solid modeling, Flexible blending constructions for curve and surface. Hybrid surface/solid modeling. Global Shape Modeling.

N/A Automatic Programming of standard feature. User customizable simulation for any machine. 2 -22 axis simulation. Advanced Rest Machining with corner removal. MS Office and VBA interface


Consistent user interface for 2.5D through 5-axis machining. Auto multi-axis tool orientation determination. Swarf milling strategies with stop surfaces. Database for storing machining macros that are applied to geometric features. Dedicated machining strategies for niche markets. Turbomachinery, cylinder heads, tire molds.

Patented Divide and Conquer Programming Strategy. Patented Visual Synchronization Methodology. Knowledge Based Machining. Powerful Surface Machining Algorithms. Automated processing of repetitive features.

Solids Based feature programming. Complete and full knowledge base with automatic tool creation. 5 Axis toolpath from 3 axis machining. Tricordal Machining. Surface Machine from any pattern.


Utilization of advanced control functions like TCPM. Utilization of local coordinate systems and 2D cycles on arbitrary frames. Unified post-processor for indexing and simultaneous apps. Material removal simulation including precise machine models and collision detection. Control of toolpath between adjacent multi-axis drill holes.

Unique “Config-by-Click” post customization. Configurable post language. Automatic handling of multiple channel output. Vast Library of robust, field tested multi-axis turning post processors. Post not dependent on intermediate file format

Customized Setup sheets from MS office. Large User database of shared information. Custom post processors in text format. Process large 5-axis parts very fast. Simulation matches code for any machine.


2-axis through 5-axis milling and drilling Axis limitation is dependent on application. For milling operations, it supports up to 5-axis milling. For multi-axis turning and Swiss apps, it supports any range axes. In Wire EDM, it supports full 4-axis operations.

2 to 22 axis mill lathe wire

Communication options? Direct sales/service, Dealer, Phone, email, ftp, internet

N/A Built in DNC

Help/Support tools? On-line and context sensitive help, Training guides and tutorials on ftp site, On-site training, implementation, consulting, Standard training manuals

Robust on-line help. Support is fully automated and can be emailed directly from the Technical Support menu.

On-line Help, Books, Tutorials, Resellers, Discussion areas, Direct 1-800

Simulation capabilities? Surface-based internal simulation, hyperVIEW solid material removal, with machine modeling and collision checking, Data export to Vericut

Basic, Advanced and Full Machine simulation modules to provide varying levels of 3D simulation.

Full feature simulation. Real-Time

Operating system? Windows XP Windows 2000

It is a Windows-developed system and operates on all Windows platforms 98 and higher, 2000 or XP

Windows XP, 2000


1GB RAM, 256 MB VRAM w/OpenGL, 40 GB disk for programs and data, Ethernet adapter, DVD reader, Mouse, USB or parallel port

100 MB RAM, 100 Hard Disk Space P4, 512RAM, GOOD VGA card

Price? $3,000US to $50,000US or more, depending on bundles and configuration

Price Ranges provided upon request Starts at $3500US

Web address www.openmind-tech.com www.partmaker.com www.cadcam4u.com, www.dptechnology.com

Contact Alan Levine Hanan Fishman Michael Huggins Email [email protected] or

[email protected]@partmaker.com [email protected]

Phone 781-239-8095 or 270-912-5822 fax 888-270-6878 or 215-643-5077 410-527-9999

http://www.openmind-tech.com/

http://www.partmaker.com/

http://www.cadcam4u.com/

http://www.dptechnology.com/






Questionnaire PTC Softech Sescoi Product Name? Pro/E: Machining Solutions: Prismatic &

Multi-surface Milling; Production Machining; Complete Machining; NC Sheetmetal; Tool Design; Complete Mold Design; Progressive Die: Expert Moldbase; Plastic Advisor; Computer- aided Verification

Prospector WorkNC CAM/CAD software


CATIA V4/V5, UGS, IDEAS, AUTOCAD DWG,ICEM, CDRS, CADDS 5, Pro/E

Parasolid (.x_t & .x_b), SofTech ToolDesigner, SofTech ExpertCAD

UGS, CATIA V4, CATIA V5, Pro/E


IGES, STEP, VDA, ACIS, SET, DXF, STL (SLA), PARASOLID, GRANITE

IGES, VDA, Parasolid IGES, STEP

Data type product uses? 2D & 3D data, Wireframe, surface, solid and facets

Solid models, surfaces, wireframe Wireframe, Surfaces, Solids


Integrated system from art to part ; Library of components: tools, fixtures, moldbase; Support for all file formats; Associativity: changes reflected in deliverables; Access to tools for PDM, change management, real-time, design conferencing, ERP integration

Transform model into initial machining position. Associate type of material with the model. Define multi part machining from a single instance. Stock definition by specified block size or constant amount of stock across. Simplify over-defined surface data. Reporting of any design errors in part file

Strong CAD functions for filling holes. Automatic feature recognition for holes. Automatic Electrode Extraction. Ability to deform interior fillets for dies for Backdraft analysis


All processes: milling 2- 5 axis, turning, drilling, laser, punch press, waterjet; Wizard-based user interface; Basic tools for automation: mapkeys, custom UI, Advanced with C++, Javascript API; Process capture & re-use in XML; Complete application:toolpath creation, NC simulation & post-processing

Knowledge-based system automatically suggests solutions based on preferences & shop rules. Extensive use of Windows interface. Rigorously enforces strict verification of all cutter paths. Full suite of 3D & 2-1/2D machining strategies. Remaining stock model technology shows the state remaining stock.

Dynamic Stock Model for most efficient roughing. Trochoidal movements. Automatic remachining cutterpaths. 5-axis with as much ease of use and flexibility as 3-axis. Automatic tool holder collision avoidance.


Automatic clean up of remaining material; Toolpath transformation: subprogram, mirror, translation, rotation, patterns; Advanced low level control toolpath: customize, trim; Automatic process documentation; Arcfitting and NURBS interpolation supported in the post-processor.

Auto saving & archival of all electronic data. NC Documentation makes customized reports. Custom post processor with unlimited warranty for each license & a library of free post processors. High speed machining. Suite of cutter path editing tools includes trimming, mirroring, translation, rotation & discrete point editing.

5-axis milling machine angular limits considered. Post process to any machine. Collision checking to milling machine model. Canned cycles and Circular Interpolation supported. Easy to customize.


Basic 2 axis (laser, punch, drilling) to complex 5 axis milling or lathe with live tooling (e.g., XYZCB); or advanced kinematics with sub-spindles

Prospector handles 2-axis, 2-1/2 axis, 3-axis and 3+2 axis milling.

2, 2 ½, 3, 3+2, 4 and simultaneous 5 axis

Communication options? Make flat ASCII files for NC machines None Regular Windows based file transfer Help/Support tools? Tutorials, online help files, CD manuals,

24/7 tech support, knowledge database, local resellers

Complete multi-media HTML-style help.Context sensitive "What's This?" help. A "What's New" guide. Quick Start HTML multi-media tutorial. Toll-fee Help Desk support. Email for problems or questions. FTP site. On-site or classroom training & engineering support.

Complete online documentation, videos, “What’s new” and tutorials

Simulation capabilities? Material removal simulation with VERICUT for Pro/E from CGTECH bundled in all manufacturing options.

Full-featured cutter path animation with VCR-like windows dialog control. Feed rate changes displayed graphically. Z-buffering option provides unambiguous feedback. Display & check rapid traverse motion. OpenGL graphics.

Simulate cutterpaths through, including 5-axis

Operating system? Windows, Linux and UNIX (HP, SGI, IBM, SUN)

Windows 2000, XP & XP x64 Windows 2000, Windows XP


www.ptc.com/partners/hardware/current/sup port.htm

Intel Pentium 4, processor or higher. 512MB RAM, 90MB disk space, CD-ROM, Graphics card capable of 16.7 million colors; USB port

2Ghz Processor, Open GL graphics card

Price? Ala carte and package are available beginning at $4,995US.

Starts at $3,495US $19,0000US and up

Web address www.ptc.com/go/cam www.ProspectorNC.com www.sescoi.comContact Nicole Rowe Jim Lindsay Jeff Jaje Email [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 781-370-6369 888-294-9450 or 248-269-8380 248-351-9300

http://www.ptc.com/partners/hardware/current/sup%20port.htm

http://www.ptc.com/partners/hardware/current/sup%20port.htm

http://www.ptc.com/go/cam

http://www.prospectornc.com/

http://www.sescoi.com/





Questionnaire SolidCAM TekSoft TopSolid-Missler

Product Name? SolidCAM CAMWorks Solids, FABWorks TopSolid’Cam Which Native CAD files can your product read?

SolidWorks Part & Assembly, AutoCAD, Inventor, CADKEY, Pro/E Part & Assembly, UGII. Optional Translators for CATIA V4 & V5, CADDS, Euclid, I-Deas, ME10

SolidWorks, STL, CATIA Graphics, Pro/E Part & Assembly, UGSII, Inventor Part, Solid Edge Part & Assembly, CADKEY

IGES, STEP, DXF, DWG, STL, Parasolid, ACIS


DXF, IGES, STEP, Parasolid, ACIS, VDAFS, DWG, STL

DXF, DWG, Parasolid, IGES, Step Ap203/314, Acis, VDAFS, VRML

CATIA, Pro/E, PTC, UGS

Data type product uses? Wireframe, Solids, Surfaces, Point Clouds

Wireframe, Surfaces and Solids N/A


Live inside the SolidWorks window on the SolidWorks model either part or an assembly. Same Applies to both the AutoCAD & Inventor integrations. User definable libraries for speeds and feed, Tools, Fixtures, machining processes. Instant definition of Coordinate systems. Leverage all the power of SolidWorks and its other 3rd party applications

Runs native inside of SolidWorks or as standalone. Feature based modeling. Feature based machining. Parametric part design. Library features and machining processes.

Simulation


Toolpaths include 3D roughing on a Solid or Surface Model without the need for feature recognition. Drive profiles and sketches without the need for a SolidModel. 5 axis automatic hole recognition with automatic tool selection. More than 20 finishing toolpaths for complex molds, aerospace parts etc. Turning toolpaths developed in conjunction with Cutting Tool manufacturers, ISCAR etc. Knowledge based library of Machining Processes.

Automatic feature recognition, Toolpath is associative to geometry; Knowledge based Machining, Complete associative between the CAD and CAM, 2-5 axis milling, turning, mill/turn and wire EDM.

One software solution for machining of all parts (2, 3, 5 axis), Completely integrated solution, Stock machining, Solid machining


User configurable post included. Thousands of posts available. Unique control of multi axis machines. Subroutines and canned cycles supported, including user defined. Boolean operands. Extremely fast processing with compiled option post. Batch mode posting. Machine simulation through 5 axis, includes full collision detection against the part, fixtures and the machine itself.

Graphical toolpath editing, Machine simulation, Toolpath verification, Simulation comparison between the machined part and the molded part Over 3,000 post processors available at no cost.

Creates its own post-processors. By working with machine manufacturers and customers who have complex machining needs we generate the most efficient post-processor.


2-5 axis milling with both indexing and full 5 axis simultaneous motion. High Speed machining. Turning wand mill turn with CY and B axis control and sub spindle. 2 & 4 axis wire EDM.

Up to 5 axis on Mill and Turn, Up to 4 on EDM, 2 axis on Fabrication

Turning, 2 & 3 axes milling, 4 & 5 axis continued milling, 4 & 5 axis continued turning.

Communication options? DNC, Ethernet, RS232 RS232 and DNC at no additional cost Model transfer via the internet, free viewer for exchanging parts, assemblies and kinematic parts.

Help/Support tools? N/A Extensive online tutorials for all modules. Full video training on Milling Customer support threw Certified VAR's.

Hotline for customer needs

Simulation capabilities? 8 simulation options including full Machine Simulation, 3D rest material and comparisons between cut stages, Multi Window, Dynamic zoom and pan whilst cutting,

Up to 5 axis including True Machine Simulation.

Complete simulation of the part, tools and machine

Operating system? Windows XP and above Windows 2000 and XP Windows Minimum hardware requirements?

Same as on the SolidWorks web site. 1Ghz or greater, 512MB Ram, Graphics card with 64MB Ram

PC with a Pentium 4 processor. Hard drive of IG

Price? Bundled with a full seat of SolidWorks starting at $6800. As add-on $3900.

Based on modules Depends on the country, options chosen

Web address www.solidcam.com www.teksoft.com www.topsolid.comContact USA Bede Kortegast Sales Ellen Marie Hickey Email [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 888-225-2865 480-367-0132 +33-1 60-87-20-32

http://www.solidcam.com/

http://www.teksoft.com/

http://www.topsolid.com/





Questionnaire UGS Product Name? NX CAM and NX CAM Express; Packages: 2 ½ Axis

Machining, 3 Axis Machining, Mill-Turn Machining, Advanced Machining


Pro/E, CATIA, NX, Solid Edge


DXF, IGES, STEP, JT, Parasolid

Data type product uses? Solids, surfaces, wire-frame, faceted models 5 unique or strongest PRE-PROCESSING features?

Option for fully integrated CAD on same software base (NX). Associative integration with Solid Edge. Complete associativity between CAD, Tooling and CAM. Ability to use facet, solids and surfaces in one part. Data repair for mismatched surfaces.


All in one. 2.5 to 5 axis Milling, Turning, Mill-turn, Wire-EDM, Drilling, Feature Based, Post processing, Simulation and Verification. Advanced high speed milling support with proven machining parameters. Associative tool path. Design updates are quick to make and easy to track. High level of automation with programming tools like UG-Open and CAM wizards. Fully customizable, easy to use, role based UI.


Graphical Post Builder application included with all packages. Output from post used to drive machine tool simulation (G-code). Multi-channel post structure. Machine tool support kits offered for advanced machines. Shop Documentation output included.


2-5 axis typically but theoretically unlimited

Communication options? N/A Help/Support tools? On line help, access to UGS’s Global Technical Access

Center Simulation capabilities? Machine tool simulation is driven by G-codes (after

post-processor) Operating system? Windows, Unix Minimum hardware requirements? Processor = 2 .0 GHz, RAM = 512 MB min, 100 GB

disk space 40 GB min Price? $7,500US - $25,000US Web address www.UGS.comContact Vynce Paradise Email [email protected] 714-952-6518

http://www.ugs.com/


cam guide

Documents