Software Enhancements Improve Speed, Toolpath Reliability

Geometric Technologies, formerly TekSoft, has released CAMWorks 2008 with advances in three-axis functionality as well as new features and cutting strategies for two- and five-axis milling, turning and wire EDM. Performance enhancements include improved speed and toolpath reliability for multi-axis operations as well as improved simulation speed and quality. According to the company, user-interface options for display and navigation make the system easy to use. Enhancement highlights for three-axis milling include an adaptive roughing strategy that allows users to cut using the full depth of the tool and to safely run their machines at optimum speeds. Other highlights include a Z-level/constant stopover combination operation for machining steep and shallow slope areas in one tool path, advanced helical milling strategies, additional control for improved pencil milling, improved methods for defining rapid planes and entry-point control for roughing. New capabilities in 2.5-axis milling include offset roughing; contour spiral lead-in; improved contour milling in corners for high speed machining; and arc fitting for faster, smaller tool paths. Faster Automatic Feature Recognition (AFR), additional detection of hole conditions and added functionality for local feature recognition are also included. Turning has been improved with enhanced feature recognition, back facing, automatic multi-start threading and arc fitting. Options for die and punch processing, defining stock allowance and cutting corners in two-axis contouring all help streamline wire EDM manufacturing.