Published 12/17/2014

CAM Software Updates HSM Strategies

Edited by: Stephanie Hendrixson

Executive Editor, Additive Manufacturing

SmartCAMcnc’s 2015 version of its SmartCAM software features a new knowledge-based machining (KBM) repository, high-speed milling (HSM) strategies, and other user interface and core application improvements. The SmartCAM software family consists of applications for CNC milling, turning, fabrication and wire EDM.

According to the company, the software’s KBM improvements lay the groundwork for capturing user knowledge and shop expertise. The KBM repository stores frequently used toolpath process parameters for later recall. Part materials can be defined directly within the SmartCAM application, and speeds/feeds settings and be stored and updated without using a separate utility. The new machine definition enables recalling all files associated with a particular machine by selecting the machine name to simplify job setup, while the material definition takes advantage of SmartCAM’s material library capabilities.

The HSM improvements in the 2015 version include roughing and finishing toolpath smoothing capabilities which remove sharp corners from the toolpath, reducing shock to both the tool and machine. Closed-profile continuous morphing and ramping strategies can be used in combination with the smoothing capabilities. The restmill region calculation has been enhanced to consider material left behind anywhere within a region, including additional material left behind as a result of smoothing.

Updates to the SmartCAM user interface include new list picking, a group toolbar and toolbar scrolling, among others. According to the company, the updates enable greater flexibility in configuring the interface and making usage easier and more direct. All SmartCAM version 2015 products feature an updated ACIS modeling kernel as well as updated native and generic data translators. A configurable auto-save feature has also been added.

Related Content

The Power of Practical Demonstrations and Projects

Practical work has served Bridgerland Technical College both in preparing its current students for manufacturing jobs and in appealing to new generations of potential machinists.
Generating a Digital Twin in the CNC

New control technology captures critical data about a machining process and uses it to create a 3D graphical representation of the finished workpiece. This new type of digital twin helps relate machining results to machine performance, leading to better decisions on the shop floor.
Can AI Replace Programmers? Writers Face a Similar Question

The answer is the same in both cases. Artificial intelligence performs sophisticated tasks, but falls short of delivering on the fullness of what the work entails.