Radan 2011 R2 allows users greater integration with their processes
1 min read
"As many new functions have been added to Radan in recent years, we're now starting to look at bundling all related functions together into processes, so that Radan users can get the most from the new features," Radan product manager Olaf Körner says. For example, nesting functions in Radan 2011 R2, and everything related to nesting, is contained in just one process. There is more control over specific parts and sheet sizes, to ensure the final nest takes the user's individual requirements. For example, in a list of 100 parts, maybe 60 aren't needed until tomorrow, so a new 'exclude from nesting function' allows the user to start with the other 40.
There is also a new option means certain sheet sizes can be excluded from the nester, giving the user the ability to relate what he is doing offline to what is happening on the shopfloor. Also combining two parts together on the nest in a specific arrangement, as if they are only one part, can optimise cutting sequences. Many nesters cannot recognise that they are two parts, and want to make double the required number. Radan 2011 R2 allows the nester to use multi-part symbols to produce the correct number of parts.
A new "Publish Remnants" function allows the user to decide decides whether to publish them as soon as the nest been created on the computer or whether to wait until the parts have been manufactured. R2 also creates a utilisation premium for remnants. It is a better way of comparing whether it is better to use a remnant or a new sheet for a specific job.
R2 machine control features offer improved tool optimisation for single nests and sequences of nests. In previous versions of Radan, the machine tool would not operate if a stack of parts was going to be too high.
On the CAD front, a new optional alert has been added for a bend allowance that is not in the bend table, enabling the user to input a bend value to suit their individual requirements whilst ensuring high precision unfolding.
Layer mapping in dxf and dwg files is now accessible from the import facility. "Each layer can be drawn on its own, so the operator can just cut one layer rather than taking the whole drawing and having to remove what doesn't need to be cut."
Radan 2011 R2 provides complete compatibility for users of 64-bit operating systems and the new ACIS 21 kernel gives access to all 3D software translators. It not only reads ProEngineer Wildfire 5, but also works with Visual Studio 2010.
