CIMdata PLM Industry Summary Online Archive
2 June 2008
Product News
Delcam’s FeatureCAM Certified for Autodesk Inventor 2009
Delcam announced that its FeatureCAM range of knowledge-based CAM software products has been certified by the Autodesk Inventor® Certified Application Program for Autodesk Inventor® 2009. This program certifies that FeatureCAM software applications have met the high standards set by Autodesk for quality and the interoperability with the latest version of its Inventor® 3D mechanical design system.
"Our relationship with Autodesk is very strong and a huge benefit to our customers, who can open Inventor® parts seamlessly in FeatureCAM, with no loss of data or concerns about translation errors. The certification program gives our customers the confidence of knowing that FeatureCAM has been rigorously tested by Autodesk and found to perform to the highest standards,” says Tom McCollough, Vice President of Development for FeatureCAM.
FeatureCAM incorporates a combination of feature-based and knowledge-based functionality that makes programming faster and easier. The software family offers a comprehensive range of programs for milling, turning, wire EDM and mill-turn, all with the same easy-to-use interface style to minimise training times.
Feature-based machining divides part designs into features, such as holes, slots, pockets and bosses. FeatureCAM incorporates Automatic Feature Recognition technology that automatically identifies the features within the part and so makes the system exceptionally easy to learn and quick to use.
For each feature, FeatureCAM automatically selects the most suitable tools, calculates feeds and speeds, generates toolpaths and produces NC code, in a single automated operation. This knowledge-based approach ensures consistent, reliable results, even when the software is being used by inexperienced operators. However, the system also includes editing tools that can be used by experienced programmers to modify the initial results to give more efficient machining on a particular piece of equipment.
The latest version of FeatureCAM includes greatly increased support for more sophisticated machine tools, such as five-axis machines and mill-turn equipment. Other enhancements include more efficient turning through better and easier control of stock remaining, and an improved tool database with more options to link pre-defined feeds and speeds to individual tools.
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