Major enhancements to feature extraction, part modeler and 5-axis toolpath functionality, are included in the latest release of ALPHACAM, which is being unveiled at the forthcoming MACH Exhibition.
ALPHACAM 2014 R2, from Vero Software, will be released shortly, and is being highlighted on stand 4361 in Hall 4 at the NEC in Birmingham, between April 7 – 11.
Amongst the new functionality and enhancements:
Feature Extraction: All feature extraction commands will extract to the current workplane if possible, and the active user layer. Noteable enhancements include improvements to the extraction of partial holes. This can now be anabled or disabled, and uses the specified partial angle to filter results. In addition, small hole chamfers can now be extracted, and there are options on the Feature Configuration dialog to set the preferred tool directions for internal and external paths.
Part Modeler: This now includes the ability to convert a 2D drawing into a 3D model automatically. It works by simply defining the 2D views from the DXF/DWG file, tracing around the profile of the part from different views, and creating the 3D model rfrom the traced profile.
5-Axis Toolpath Analyser: Users can analyse 5-axis toolpaths to the specific machine coinfiguration and rotational axis limits. As this is carried out at an operational level, any changes to the toolpath or machine configuration will highlight that the operation needs updating. New angles are set as Element attributes for driving the new simulator, to accurately show the machine’s rotational axes, with these angles being passed to the Post Processor, making it easier to configure. The complete operation is analysed against the user settings, and where required the path will be broken with options to maintain Feed Down and Lead In/Out settings on the modified toolpaths.
Clamps and Fixtures: Enhancements enable more exact positioning and greater control against collisions. Containment and positional geometry can now be set to better position clamps and fixtures against others, and the material. Clamp moves can now be controlled using the new “Can Pop Up” option. Other enhancements include improved Post Processor support for clamps and fixtures, and a new menu to define the selection of alternate geometry.
Nesting: The three major enhancements to this are Kit Nesting, where each part in the nest can be assigned a kit number, so that kits of parts can be nested to the same sheet; setting a No Nest Zone to a sheet will apply to all subsequent sheets; and the New Nesting Special Function (which only applies to the Vero Group Nester) prevents nesting into part apertures.
BTL Translator: New functionality now allows components to be generated which are suitable for nesting, and includes the option to create a CSV file for all processed nesting parts to import into CAD to CAM, and Cabinet Door Manufacturing. In addition, there are several new processes, including a Notch/Rabbet, House, House Mortise and Dovetail Tenon.
Part of the Vero Software Group, ALPHACAM is a leading CAM solution providing users with productivity, reliability and flexibility. Improving these attributes in any company helps increase profitability. Vero has direct offices in the UK, Italy, France, Japan, USA, Brazil, Netherlands and China, while supplying product to more than 45 countries through its wholly owned subsidiaries and reseller network.
