December sees the release of the latest version of the ModuleWorks components, 2014.12, the third major update of 2014. As always, we have added a broad range of new features across the product range and this latest update includes new and enhanced features for 3-Axis, 5-Axis, Port Machining and Simulation. ModuleWorks is at the forefront of 5-Axis machining and Simulation technology, providing the toolpath and simulation technology that powers many of the leading CAM systems available around the world today. Highlights of the new release are shown below:
5-Axis Machining
5-Axis SWARF sees a number of improvements to improve efficiency and flexibility.
| The aim of “Tool guide curve for SWARF machining” is that the tool can be guided either on the upper or the lower curve. The selection is depending on the SWARF surface shape, walls with varying heights or abrupt jumps can be handled better. The tool should be guided to that curve that has the least curvature. Laser or waterjet applications benefit the most, but also for milling more complex or cut out parts. |  Tool Guide Curve for SWARF machining |
The porting module has two important enhancements. Firstly the automatic spine detection has been enhanced to support even more complex port geometry. This allows larger tools to be uses on narrower ports, minimizing cycle time. Secondly, the toolpath can now be extended automatically to include a rollover on each end of the port. This makes programming easier and can provide an improved surface finish. 5-Axis toolpaths now offer the option to specify the clearance distance incremental to the toolpath. This provides short retract moves while keeping the tool at a safe distance allowing overall cycle time to be reduced.
3-Axis Machining
There are many detail improvements across the range of 3-Axis STL mesh and 2.5D wire frame toolpaths. These are focused on toolpath efficiency, flexibility and performance. The Z Level cycle now allows the for the intermediate slice cuts to programmed at a different feed rate. Because the tool load on the intermediate cuts is often lower than the primary cuts, a high feed rate can be used which reduces the overall cycle time.
| The linking in our 3-Axis roughing toolpath has been overhauled such that safe linking moves are now created much closer to part. Air cutting is minimized and the cycle time is reduced as a result. |  Optimized Link Moves |
Simulation
Simulation has major improvements to provide a higher resolution finish of the cut part. A background process automatically refines the stock model to a higher quality finish with no user interaction.
| Wire EDM simulation has been enhance to check if machining has separated out a part of the model and see if that part can deformed and removed. This new feature will check for multiple parts and look at the model from different directions. The process is shown in simulation and the user will be notified if the part cannot be removed. |  Part De-Molding |
The 2014.12 release is now available to all partners from the customer download area at www.ModuleWorks.com