Latest NCSIMUL Features Three Areas of Enhancement

Continuing the ethos of powering a successful digital ecosystem which is smart and fully connected, Hexagon has just released the latest NCSIMUL CAM simulation package from their Production Software portfolio.

It includes a number of important enhancements to both high-end machining verification, and the module which automatically converts CAM and NC programs to different machines. The three main topics which developers have focused on in this latest release are:

• Optipower

• Interface enhancements

• 4CAM.

Helping manufacturers bring their factories in line with the Industry 4.0 philosophy of smart production, NCSIMUL 2020.1 introduces an additional parameter to NCSIMUL Machine. Optipower complements the Optitool module by adding the necessary power and torque to remove material.

Technical Director Philippe Legoupi says it is used as a limitative parameter, which optimises the program and limits the power, so that risks of breakage are avoided. “It takes into account the type of material, the chosen tool, and the definition of its angles.” A graph shows the evolution of the power on the tool, so it can be limited to avoid possible flexions, overheating and premature deterioration.

The interface has been enhanced with two main developments which he says are particularly valuable for optimising programs. “The aim is to save time through automated tools, and giving a better and clearer view of work through enhanced navigation.”

Firstly, a “Graph Window” has been added, enabling users to zoom in to focus on a specific tool, rather than being restricted to a simple overview. “The choices are saved in the project window – so even if you need to watch another part of the program, the focus created on the chosen tool will be saved in the project. Also, the colour of the focused graph matches the colour of the toolpaths on the 3D view, which is helpful in giving a clear vision of the machining process at a glance.”

Secondly, there is now the option of choosing a specific sequence in the arborescence. “By applying the F7 key, users can now reach the chosen place in the program, in the window they need. The milling sequence window is linked to the project tree, so it’s possible to navigate freely from one to the other. This is especially useful in switching quickly and simply from the program’s 3D view to the navigation tree, and vice versa.”

The 4CAM part of the digital twin solution benefits from five significant enhancements:

• Supports native polar toolpaths for mill-turn machines

• A new link for twin head machines, and a change of rotation for safer positioning

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• Axis system duplication

• More realistic rendering without slowing the process.

Overall, the NCSIMUL package builds an optimised virtual twin of the real-life machining environment to eliminate errors, secure production, decrease set-up times, reduce manufacturing costs, and increase shop floor productivity.