Delcam’s ArtCAM 2010 with customised interface

Delcam has launched a 2010 edition of its ArtCAM family of software, for artistic applications.

The range comprises the entry-level version, ArtCAM Express for users new to CNC machining, ArtCAM Insignia for production machining and ArtCAM Pro for more complex design and manufacturing, plus an ArtCAM JewelSmith edition for the jewellery industry.

All of the 2010 range will feature a completely new interface that can be customised by the user. Every user can set up the software to give quicker access to the commands that they use most frequently. Similarly, commands that are rarely used can be hidden from the initial menu choices. This releases much more of the screen for visualisation of the model as the design progresses.

Another change is the ability to use many more commands on the 3D model directly. Direct editing in the 3D window will give more immediate feedback, and so allow faster creation and modification of designs.

On the machining side, a great deal of underlying technology has been incorporated into ArtCAM from Delcam's PowerMill CAM system. This has enabled the inclusion of multi-threading technology and given users greater flexibility to edit toolpaths, in particular to optimise the leads and links.

Within ArtCAM Insignia and ArtCAM Pro, more automation has been introduced when machining designs imported as layered DXF or pdf files, from other CAD systems. Using Toolpath Templates, previously defined machining strategies, cutting tools and machining parameters can be applied to named layers within the imported file, using a single click.

New machining options include a combination of roughing with an end-mill, coupled with V-bit carving. This gives the advantage of faster material removal with the end-mill, while retaining the finish quality that is possible with a V-bit cutter.

A "raised-round" command can now generate this machining option directly from vector artwork. This technique will be especially valuable for producing foiling and embossing dies that include lettering in their design.

Finally, machining simulations have been made more flexible by adding the ability to change the view during the simulation. This makes it easier to check the quality and accuracy of the toolpaths on the computer before they are sent to the machine.

Author
Michael Richards

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