The latest release of the Alphacam CAD/CAM software suite incorporates a range of new and enhanced functionality, including aspects relating to solid tools, multi-processing and CAD to CAM.
Amongst the updates in Alphacam 2014 R1:
Solid Tools
Cutting tools can now be defined from solids which are displayed during solid simulation and the lathe module now supports turrets, including revolver and platen type configurations. This gives the added benefit of enhanced graphical simulation; and improved collision detection within lathe, which is especially useful when using multiple spindles and turrets.
Multi-Processing
Alphacam is now making full use of multi-core hardware technology. Multi-processing allows users to calculate multiple toolpaths at the same time. This eliminates the need for the user to wait for one process to finish before starting the next, dramatically reducing part processing time.
Improved CAD to CAM
Alphacam’s nested based automation tool, CAD to CAM, now supports the processing of solid models. Using style layer processing within CAD to CAM these models have their own geometry features recognised before automated machining and nesting. This enables the benefit of solids nesting, while reducing screen-to-machine time.
SpaceClaim CAD Input
Native ‘scdoc’ files from SpaceClaim can now be read directly into Alphacam including support for assemblies and individual part colours. This enhancement increases the speed of transferring parts from CAD to CAM, while eliminating the need for CAD format conversions, which could lead to data translation errors.
Improved DWG/DXF CAD Inputs
Alphacam 2014 R1 can now import Autocad 2014 DWG/DXF files while maintaining their layer display visibility.
Improved Cut Spline or Polyline
Cut Spline or Polyline now supports multiple depth and bi-directional cuts. These cuts can be either along or perpendicular to the tool, and saved as part of a machining style. This increases the speed of toolpath generation, while improving surface finish and increasing tool life.
