Keywords
Citation
(2000), "EdgeCAM functionality improves jig and fixture manufacturer", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 72 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.2000.12772bab.002
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2000, MCB UP Limited
EdgeCAM functionality improves jig and fixture manufacturer
EdgeCAM functionality improves jig and fixture manufacturer
Keywords: Truline Automation, CAD, CAM, Programming, Software
Steelcraft Precision Tools Ltd of Loughborough has installed Version 4 of the EdgeCAM off-line programming software <(Plate 1). Supplied by Truline Automation of Reading, it is forecast to simplify CNC machine programming routines and free up valuable machine operator time.
The purchase of EdgeCAM is said to be regarded as a strategic investment, and is integrated with the company's new Solid Edge CAD system. High levels of efficiency and effectiveness are expected from EdgeCAM's ability to quickly and easily generate bespoke CNC programs for the range of horizontal and vertical machining centres, CNC lathes and wire EDM.
Plate 1 EdgeCAM
Version 4 is fully integrated with Solid Edge CAD at Steelcraft Precision Tools
The roots of Steelcraft stem from a toolmaking background that has grown to a leading position specializing in the design and manufacture of production engineering solutions associated with machine tool builders, distributors and end users. This specialisation extends to specific industries including aerospace, industrial gas turbine engines and automotive providing a wide range of capacity and capabilities to match the complexity of products made. Many of which are one-off tasks.
Hence the need for a powerful and flexible, yet user-friendly, off-line programming system. Project engineer, Mike Waller says:
EdgeCAM fitted the bill. It was selected over competitor systems due to its functionality and its high integration capability with our new CAD system.
He continues:
We expect long-term gains by simplifying our off-line programming routines and freeing-up machine operator time. Another major benefit is EdgeCAM's user-friendliness, which allows occasional users, such as our designers, easy access to the machine programming technology.
In addition to featuring "Open GL" dynamic graphics with improved rendering and solid tool simulation, EdgeCAM's unrivalled flexibility is enhanced by the use of Microsoft standard mouse functions and "Cool-Look" icons. Simple operator-specific tailoring of toolbars can be performed to suit individual preferences and methods of working.
Split screens with multi-save configuration improves control, speed of use and simplifies visualisation while new view manipulation features allow "rotate to position" or continuous rotation by point or axis.
An important benefit to Steelcraft is thought to be the use of dynamic 3D solid tool display with "real-time" simulation over the rendered model, supported with quick and simple tool selection and retrieval using the new Tool Store. This easy-to-use graphically driven tool store allows cutting data to be stored along with each tool.
As Mike Waller concludes:
EdgeCAM meets our immediate requirements and we believe its development will meet our future needs as well.
Details available from Truline Automation. Tel: +44 (0) 118 9756084, Web site: http:\\www.edgecam.com