Published 2/14/2023

Hypertherm Associates Adds CAD/CAM Plugin to Robotmaster

The plugin converts Mastercam CAD/CAM data into an optimized robotic program.

Edited by: Chris Pasion

Managing Editor, Modern Machine Shop | Production Machining

Photo Credit: Getty Images

Hypertherm Associates, a U.S.-based manufacturer of industrial cutting products and software, offers a new software plugin from its Robotmaster brand.

The plugin converts Mastercam CAD/CAM data into an optimized, error-free robotic program. Once installed, users can import CAD files, tool paths, data and process-specific information directly into Robotmaster. They can then synchronize files so changes made to the original Mastercam file are transferred to Robotmaster without needing to reprogram. According to the company, the plugin contributes to a 75% reduction in programming time. The new plugin uses a robot programming method that can automatically identify and resolve programming errors that could otherwise go unnoticed when using a manual process.

“We’ve always said that you shouldn’t need advanced programming knowledge or robotics expertise to use Robotmaster. We wanted to provide an easy way for those who are using CAD/CAM software to program a robot,” says Natalie Adams, a product marketing manager for the Hypertherm Associates Software Group. “This new plugin streamlines the robotic programming process so Mastercam users can maximize their productivity and remain competitive through the rapid adoption of automation.”

The Mastercam plugin uses Robotmaster Bridge, a functionality found in Robotmaster 2023, which allows seamless integration between a user’s chosen CAD/CAM software and Robotmaster. The company says this is first of many Robotmaster plugins Hypertherm Associates plans to introduce.

The new Robotmaster plugin for Mastercam supports Mastercam 2023, the current release, as well as Mastercam 2021 and 2022. And while the new plugin streamlines robotic programming for Mastercam customers, those looking for a standalone solution can simply rely on Robotmaster’s integrated CAD/CAM functionality. The software enables customers to import the CAD model for their part and generate toolpaths directly within Robotmaster without the need for separate CAD/CAM software.

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