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Manufacturing Engineering: What's new in your latest hyperMill CAM software update?
Alan Levine: As with all Open Mind upgrade raleases, hyperMill 2017.2 has a broad range of new technologies and enhancements. This release covers 2.5D through five-axis milling, mill-turn and new modules such as the hyper-CAD-S Electrode module. Soma of the new or improved topics include a T-elot geometry feature to augment the T-slot on 3D model cutting strategy, automated creation of reference geometry for swarf milling, enhancement to 3D-optimized roughing to modify feed rates and adjust stepdown depending on stock conditions, and five-axis rework enhancement to change feed rates based on conditions with 'trim to model.'
ME: How critical is speeding key machining cycles, like roughing, in today's production environment?
Levine: Cycle-time improvements are clearly important to end-user return on investment and productivity. Many years ago, these enhancements would focus solely on better toolpaths. New CAM software technology developments also focus on interaction of CAM software with CNC controls, or CAM software with cutting tool applications. These integrated solutions make a larger impact for software users and reward those that invest in their asset infrastructure.
Ultimately the goal is to make better parts-better in terms of time, cost and quality. Faster is one componant of making better parts, but not the only measure. CAM software plays an important role in achieving this goal, and this is often in combination with machine tools, controls, tooling and fixtiling systems.
ME: What key technologies are included in your latest hyperMill update, and how do they impact speed of roughing, drilling, and finishing operations?
Levine: Open Mind offers the hyperMill...