SolidCAM’s InventorCAM 2014 includes enhancements and new measurement module

Toolbox roughing and finishing operations have been added to the 2.5D Milling module, while threading and engraving operations have been enhanced. In addition, the HSS complementary module for surface machining has been upgraded with new lead-in ramping options. InventorCAM 2014's 3D Milling solution comprising the High Speed Roughing (HSR) and High Speed Machining (HSM) modules has new algorithms which provide additional strategies and benefits. These include Hybrid Machining, faster multi-core calculation, which uses the full power of the users' computer processors, and smoother surface finishes. The latest software includes major enhancements to the Simultaneous 5-axis module. New tilting options have been added and improvements made to the SWARF, 5X Drill and Convert HSM to Sim 5X operation, which converts 3-axis machining to 5-axis machining. Sim 5X has three new powerful operations, while the new Multi-blade machining operation handles impellers and bladed discs, with multiple strategies for efficiently roughing and finishing every part of these complex shapes. The Port machining operation is a new and easy to use method for machining ports with lollipop milling tools. Four strategies are provided to completely finish a port: Rouging, Rest Rough, Spiral and Plunge Finishing. For deburring and trimming, now Contour 5-axis machining strategy tilts the tool along a chained 3D profile according to defined tilt lines. The Advanced Mill-Turn module handles any type of multi-turret and multi-spindle CNC machine. The Machine control operation MCO, balanced roughing, multi-turret synchronisation and full machine tool simulation have all been improved. InventorCAM's patented iMachining 2D module has been joined by a iMachining 3D module which will enable users to automatically produce a complete, ready to run CNC program, with optimal cutting conditions, for 3D Parts. This is achieved by the software's expert Knowledge-based Technology Wizard, roughing and rest roughing a complete 3D part, with true scallop on all slopes, all in a single operation. iMachining 3D, combined with its full-depth step-down, intelligent step-up, localised machining and smart positioning, optimises cycle time for roughing and semi-finishing of moulds and complex 3D parts. iMachining 3D makes it easy to mill prismatic parts which include hundreds of pockets and islands. This can be done in one operation, without the need for defining geometry chains from the solid model of the part and the solid model of the stock In InventorCAM 2014, the iMachining 3D tool path is automatically adjusted to avoid collisions between the holder and the updated stock at every stage. Without holder consideration tools need to be long for safe machining. By taking the holder into account, iMachining 3D enables engineers to use short, rigid cutters. Also new is an option for step-up rest-rough, after each step-down, leaving more room for tool holder avoidance, allowing more of the part to be machined in one operation. The new Solid Probe module enables the user to do the set-up and to perform part measurement cycles during machining. Additionally, it supports tool presetters and tool breakage detection. Machining operations and Probe operations are intermixed in the CAM manager, with both using the same geometry. As with all InventorCAM operations, should the solid model change, both the machining and probe operations automatically synchronise to the new design, keeping full associativity between product development and product manufacture.