Reduce Cycle Time, Improve Quality

Missler Software’s TopSolid’Cam 2009 is capable of piloting turning, two-axis milling, three-axis milling, four- and five-axis continued milling, four- and five-axis continued turning, synchronization and complex simulation. The software is said to simplify machine programming, reduce cycle times, improve quality and reduce manufacturing costs by prolonging the tool life.

Tolerance management of imported parts has been improved in this CAM software version. Parts designed using TopSolid’Design or different CAD software are often modeled to the nominal dimensions. TopSolid’Design enables users to transform nominal dimensions to average dimensions. If a different CAD software has been used, TopSolid 2009 can change model dimensions so that the part can be easily machined without having to re-design the complete geometry.

Also, a new function has been created to enable automatic four-axis roughing operations on parts such as extrusion screws, impellers and more. This new function manages such roughing operations as well as collisions, underdrafts and cutting conditions.

The CAM software includes drilling automation of cooling circuits for moldmakers. This function permits the automatic detection of intersecting cooling circuits. In turn, speed modifications are managed when the tool enters a zone already drilled for a previous intersecting cooling circuit. This eliminates the risk of breaking the mold plate in an automated fashion, the company says.

Traditionally, paraxial roughing on a milling machine has been carried out on a turning machine where the shallow pass levels implied the operation was carried out in several passes. The CAM software allows such operations to be performed on a milling machine, to allow complete material removal in one operation by using a particular helicoidal cycle.

During five-axis machining of composite materials, the CAM software enables tools to make sinusoidal movements, equalizing wear throughout the entire length of the tool. Other features include customized approach and retract movements.