CAM Software Ensures Collision-Free Positioning in Multi-Axis Operations

CNC Software’s Mastercam X9 introduces improvements to the software’s dynamic motion tool path capability, design features, multiaxis capabilities and more. 

Updated design features include Dynamic Xform, which enables users to switch between gnomon manipulation and geometry manipulation mode at any time without having to reselect geometry. “Solid disassemble” is a new model prep function that takes an assembly and lays each body out in a single pane. The associativity between solids and tool paths has been greatly improved in this version, the company says. Now when bodies are edited, only the tool paths directly affected by the change in the solid body are marked as dirty.

The new Multiaxis Link ensures that reposition moves between two- through five-axis operations are safe and free of collision. The operation takes a list of toolpath operations and a safety zone shape as input. The software introduces improved processing logic for advanced multiaxis tool paths. Select multiaxis tool paths now process in the “multi-threading manager,” streamlining the two- through five-axis workflow.

Other features in Mastercam X9 include updates for efficiency and machining intelligence. “Preview tool paths” support for select mill operations enables users to see results before closing the toolpath parameters dialog. “Surface high speed hybrid” now supports dedicated flat processing, making hybrid more intelligent and efficient. The efficiency of the 3D HST rest roughing linking has been improved. The moves are said to stay closer to the user’s model, reducing costly excessive air motion.