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

This includes a number of significant enhancements to both ‘high-end machining’ verification and the module that automatically converts CAM and NC programs to different machines (www.ncsimul.com).

The three main topics that developers have focused on in this latest release are: Optipower, interface enhancements and 4CAM.

Technical director Philippe Legoupi says Optipower is used as a ‘limitative parameter’ that optimises the program and limits the power, so that risks of tool 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’, over-heating and premature deterioration.

The interface has been enhanced with two main developments that are particularly valuable for optimising a program, the aim being to save time through automated tools that give a better and clearer view of work through enhanced navigation.

A Graph Window has been added to enable users to zoom in and focus on a specific tool, rather than being restricted to a simple over-view; also, there is now the option of choosing a ‘specific sequence in the arborescence’.

Mr Legoupi said: “By applying the F7 key, users can now reach the chosen place in the program in the window they need. Moreover, the milling sequence window is linked to the project tree, so it is possible to navigate freely from one to the other.

“This is especially useful in switching quickly and simply from the program’s 3-D view to the navigation tree — and vice versa.”

Meanwhile, the 4CAM part of the digital twin solution benefits from several significant enhancements.

These include: support for native polar tool-paths relating to mill-turn machines; a new link for twin-head machines; and a change of rotation for safer positioning.