CAM Software Selection 1

[looslib]

We are still writing our NC code out manually. All of our NC machining is 2-1/2 axis type of work or drilling. We have both UG and Pro/E with all of the design and CAM modules. We design our products in both systems, but long-term will be moving to Pro/E designs across the board.

We have long recognized the need for updating the skills of the NC programmers to get them to use the CAM packages that we currently have. Every time we try, they give up in a few weeks because of the complexity in going in to change 1 dimension or feedrate. The NC programs are stored in an Intercim DNC system that downloads all of the data to the machine tools. They find it much faster to pen the NC code in a text editor in DNC, make their edit and have the new version delivered to the machine tool in minutes. The NC programmers have all come out of the shop as ex-NC machine operators.

We are looking at implementing a new CAM package that can read both Pro/E (Granite One) and UG (Parasolid) files. We feel that a single neutral system will allow more flexibility in getting the models into the system. Yes, we do realize that we will lose the benefits of associativity, but the NC guys have always used model copies in the past.

I am looking for suggestions for a system that is:
easy to use for new parts,
fast to make edits to existing programs,
can read Pro/E and UG files,
has an easy to configure post generator,
customizable menus,
customizable tooling database,
program display verification.


"Wildfires are dangerous, hard to control, and economically catastrophic."
"Fixed in the next release" should replace "Product First" as the PTC slogan.

Ben Loosli
CAD/CAM System Analyst
Ingersoll-Rand

 

[moldcore]

Surfcam, Mastercam, Gibbs....

 

[jbel]

As Moldcore has suggested there are quite a few programs out there that can fill your needs and wants. To sucessfully implement the jump to CAM it takes a change in approach and attitude from your operators.

I am assuming that they are correct in their assesment that it is faster for them to make the changes manually. I believe this is because they are not familiar enough with the CAM software. What you really need is to start with one guy. If you can convince him to dedicate himself to the CAM software he will be able to learn it well enough that he will start to blow the doors off of the manual NC generation guys. This individual will not be your best manual NC programmer, rather someone who is pretty sharp but still takes a while to generate his NC code manually.

Find this individual, train him and get his buy in. Then allow him to show by example the power and convenience of programming with a CAM system

 

[HellBent]

I'm gonna have to side with jbel on this one. You know the saying "hard to teach an old dog new tricks"? I've never seen it more prevelant than in a tool shop. Something you may want to look into is what packages are popular in your area. If the job market around you is anything like it is in Michigan, machine operators and programmers are constantly on the move from shop to shop and picking a package that is commonly used in the area can help you as far as personnel goes. "Most" machine operators are not very computer savvy and it can take a while to teach them a programming package so stick with something that has a less complicated user interface. This takes UG and Pro/E out of the running right off the bat. Their interfaces are both pretty nasty and they both require a very thorough understanding of the core CAD package before efficient CAM use can be expected. The packages moldcore mentioned are fairly popular along with WorkNC, Prospector, FeatureCAM, etc. Again, try to investigate what other shops around you are using. Then hire someone with experience in that package. Not only to set an example but also so the other guys have someone to goto with questions.
Most of the shops in my area of any size have gone to programming on the shop floor. If implemented properly this is by far the most efficient use of resources. Every machine has a seat of software "X" right next to it. While a program is running the operator is writing the next program, etc. It's not something you can switch to overnight but since you're making a big change it may be worthy of some thought. This does make the operators worth more salary but it's much cheaper than paying an operator and a programmer. The days of a "CNC programmer" position are dwindling. If you can't multi-task you better just retire early. Back when I started in the trade it was common for an operator with no programming abilities other than at the control to make well over $20/hour. Nowadays you can get an operator who can also use a programming package for around $17 around here. That's just how common it's become. Your area may differ but I'd bet it's similar.

Take care...