Success Story
Complex 6 Axis Machine Requires Sophisticated Post Development
Customer challenge
AIS was using a mix of various CAM software and wanted to standardize on Autodesk software. One of the obstructions to doing this was the variety of Post Processors required to program existing machinery. Although most of the CNC machines posed minimal concern, the Makino’s Variable Geometry (VG) machine posed the greatest challenge. This particular machine had long been discontinued and there were not many sold, being such a specialized machine in that it was a Variable Geometry machine. Compounded with being a 6 Axis Mill added additional complexity. What made the Makino Variable Geometry (VG) machine so different is that programming these machines is much different than any other machine, including other Makino machines. What makes these machines so different is the hyper accuracy as well as being massively rigid.
Project goals
The goal was to develop a workflow and post processor to successfully be able to program these machines using a more modern commercially available solution that would allow the customer to standardize CAM software.
Solution
The solution was to standardize on Autodesk PowerMill software for advanced milling applications, along with custom developed Post Processors provided by Design and Software (DSi). Furthermore, DSi was able to produce an accurate machine simulation (MTD) representation. Now the customer could accurately visualize and identify concerns through the digital twin, before the job was on the machine.
Business outcome
By having a standard solution from Autodesk, it is now much easier to manage and focus on making parts. No longer are resources bottlenecked because of technology silos. Creating a standard allows for a dynamic environment which focuses on the mission of delivering high accuracy molds and machined parts. No longer is technology creating barriers to collaboration and equipment utilization.
Conclusion
Having a standard solution of Autodesk PowerMill not only saved time and money, this success allowed for much better cross-training throughout the shop floor. Having a standard solution provides flexibility and creates an environment where skills can be utilized on a project need basis, not being limited to silos based on technology knowledge set.
Project summary
- 48
- 2021-03-24
Duration & delivery
- Fusion 360 with PowerMill
Autodesk solutions
- Machine Configuration
- Post Processor
Services provided
- Subtractive Manufacturing
Customer industry
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