PartMaker Version 8 sees new versions of PartMaker and SwissCAM which feature a wide range of improvements including enhancements to the system’s unique synchronisation functionality, plus improvements in 3D simulation, handling of solid models and 3D surface machining operations.
PartMaker Version 8 also marks the introduction of the Full Machine Simulation module, which allows users to view a photo-realistic 3D model of the machine for which they are programming.
PartMaker Version 8 is the first release to support operation under Windows Vista. Version 8 also has many improvements to the Process Table function, the unique method within the software to control and optimise the synchronisation of operations on advanced machine tools. The main enhancement is an improved method for adding new processes created after the initial Process Table has been generated. To improve ease of use, individual processes can now be turned off and on from the Process Table one by one for simulation or NC code generation.
Improvements to 3D simulation in PartMaker Version 8 are vast, both to Basic and Advanced Simulation. Improvements include the ability to compare a machined model to the original solid model imported. Advanced Simulation and the Production Milling Module allow for the selection of different types of part textures. Advanced Simulation for Turn-Mill and SwissCAM also now displays tool numbers directly on Tool Posts.
PartMaker Version 8 includes the introduction of the Full Machine Simulation (FMS) option for PartMaker Turn-Mill and SwissCAM. FMS provides a more realistic simulation of the machining process by allowing the user to simulate true solid models of a machine’s actual components. FMS provides a very intuitive user interface to assemble solid model machine components and tools from the Tools Database into a realistic simulation of the part being programmed.
Working with imported solid models is more productive in Version 8. Turned profiles are automatically extracted from parts with a single mouse click. Verification of tool paths can now be seen directly on the solid model for all operations. Solid model assemblies can be directly imported as well. Support for SolidWorks 2007 and Autodesk Inventor 2008 is provided.
A variety of new and easy-to-apply optimisation strategies for 3D surface machining has been provided in Version 8. These new optimisation strategies both greatly speed up the programming of 3D surfaces while reducing the amount of NC code generated for such operations.
