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Need Cam design software

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jamesframes

Mechanical
Oct 21, 2003
19
I need to design some plate cams. The output would be a dxf file of the cam profile (to eventual create CNC code). The input would be parameters (base circle, follower dia, follower path, etc) and the basic positions. Also woulf like to be able to specify types of move profiles (sin2 ramps etc).
Any recomendations on something that won't cost me a fortune. I am an independent machine designer and only occasionaly need to make cams.
 
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Years ago I created similar files in software called Smart Sketch ("Imagination"); it was a 2D parametric software, I received it with the MathCad package.
The parameters were created in MathCad or Excel and linked to the Smart Sketch file.
By changing the parameters in Excel It was possible to manipulate the curves creating the cam in Smart Sketch drawing.
I am not sure if the Smart Sketch still exist; surprisingly similar is the free 2D Solid Edge, but I am not sure about it's abilities to link to a spreadsheet.
 
SolidWorks has a cam profile software built into it. I haven't used it a lot, but have played around with it. It sounds like it will do exactly what you want. If you have SolidWorks or know someone with it, give it a try.
 
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