Oxfordshire-based Open Mind Technologies UK Ltd (
www.openmind-tech.com) will be demonstrating the latest version of its HyperMill CAM software at
Southern Manufacturing 2020 (Stand B210).
With a range of new features that include high-precision 3-D finishing, five-axis tangent machining, high-performance turning and new CAD-for-CAM technologies, HyperMill 2020.1 integrates functions that previously required extra CAD machining steps.
The previous version of the software already featured high-precision profile finishing, but now it offers a comparable function for 3-D shape Z-level finishing.
The ‘high-precision surface mode’ option ensures ultra-smooth surfaces with tolerances in the µm range.
This saves time on post-machining finishing processes, particularly when applied to mould making.
In HyperMill 2020.1, the HyperCAD-S function ‘Global fitting’ is directly integrated into the CAM strategy in five-axis tangent machining.
With this function, multiple faces can be joined into one face with defined ISO orientation.
The principle of using CAD elements for CAM programming is also applied, for example, for automatic face extension; the bounding surfaces are automatically extended during programming to improve the edges of the machined surfaces.
This greatly simplifies programming, since these adjustments are made within the CAM strategy, without switching to the CAD environment.
Open Mind has also further improved the Feature and Macro technology in the new version to enable more secure and simpler programming for users.
One function that is generally useful for everyday work is the definition of macros for recurring geometries — full text searching has been added to the macro database.
Users can also define machine and material groups as defaults to make it easier to select macros.
Hole feature linking means that model changes made to CAD features are automatically transferred to HyperMill; and since design changes in CAD are associatively linked with the CAM system, users can quickly and securely make updates.
Visitors to the show will also be able to gather information on the latest special strategies from Open Mind’s high-performance HyperMill MAXX Machining package and the high-performance turning module.
Perfect Pocketing technology ensures more-efficient pocket machining with high-feed cutters; an intelligent algorithm fits the largest-possible pocket into the area to be roughed and automatically generates linear tool-paths for high-feed milling.
Innovative applications for conical barrel cutters will also be a central theme.
An interesting new function is available for users machining very large parts with HyperCAD-S.
This enables the workpiece mass and the centre of mass to be calculated with a material definition for solid, mesh and stock models.
Another highlight of the CAD portion of the suite is the ‘Undercut’ function, which makes it possible to detect undercut areas on components.
Moreover, the new ‘Local curvature’ analysis function makes it possible to detect curvature radii on components.
The minimum curvature radius, which often plays the biggest role, is output immediately; the user can then determine the best-possible lead angles or tool radii for machining curved faces.