CAD/CAM software features enhancements, new capabilities for optimizing toolpaths

OPEN MIND Technologies has introduced its latest hyperMILL 2024 CAD/CAM software suite which includes a range of enhancements to its core toolpath capabilities, as well as new functionality for increased NC programming efficiency in applications ranging from 2.5D machining to 5-axis milling.

An Optimized Deep Hole Drilling CAM strategy offers improved machining reliability by providing a user-friendly interface with process-relevant parameters clearly defined on a new process tab. New capabilities enable coolant and dwell time stages to be identified, allow a chip break to be integrated into a drilling process, and more. A new single-tip gun drill tool simulation function provides precise collision checking and a detailed visualization of the stock removal.

A new algorithm for 3-axis and 5-axis Rest Machining ensures automatic, complete detection of all rest material areas, in addition to optimized toolpath calculations. Toolpaths are now optimally divided to ensure more efficient machining, and the detection of intersection areas where paths meet has been optimized for collision avoidance.

An additional toolpath improvement is an enhanced path layout for the 3D Plane Machining cycle. The new strategy has a smoother path and fewer pick-ups. While the toolpath length (distance) may be longer in some cases, the machining time, as tested on a variety of NC controllers, has been reduced.

A new generation of programming assistance and analysis, “CAM Plan” is introduced, simplifying various programming tasks and identifying possible sources of error. Predefined workflow steps safely guide users through the preparation and programming process, while the geometries and features required are automatically created. Also, potential errors are flagged for removal such as double surfaces or gaps between model patches.

The NC Optimizer feature in the hyperMILL VIRTUAL Machining strategy offers the option to transform X- and Y-axis movements into a single movement with the rotation axis in the table. By swapping axes, an XY movement is transformed into a simultaneous CX movement which eliminates rewind movements during machining.

The reading back of measuring points when using VIRTUAL Machining is a new feature that allows graphical representation of measured points on the part model, rather than comparing a list of measurement results. Users can also quickly identify measuring points that are out of tolerance on a 3D part model and compare trends over sequential measurements. A

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