Using NX6 to program tool path for 3 axis mill help!?

[mag00n]

Alright guys, I need some direction.
Currently we are using NX6 to build our assemblies, then we export the individual details to parasolids, dxf's, and IGES so that our machine programmer can create tool paths using Mastercam.

If a hole needs to be moved at some point, we have to change it in UG and re-export it for Mastercam. With zero locations being different all the time, and hundreds of jobs being designed, exported, and machined - the chance of error is extremely high. (zero for original hole location is different from the one used to pop the new hole in)

Is there a way to eliminate the use of mastercam and program toolpath right from UG?

We are using a Hurco-VM2 and a Hurco-HAWK40 to machine blocks in case that helps. I just don't know where to start as far as obtaining a post file and setup file. Any help or direction would be greatly appreciated!

 

[markrief]

NX has extensive CAM capabilities, with packages and pricing at many levels.
Please contact your account representative ro reseller to get a look.

Mark Rief
Product Manager
Siemens PLM

 

[looslib]

Programming your toolpaths in NX is the way for your company to eliminate the translating of files and saving time. Move a hole in NX with an associative toolpath and regenerate the tool path and you are done.

Like Mark said, contact your sales rep and get a demo and pricing on NX's CAM capabilities.

Post processors for Hurco machines should not be a problem, either.


"Wildfires are dangerous, hard to control, and economically catastrophic."

Ben Loosli

 

[mag00n]

When you say Extensive Cam capabilities packages is that something separate from the normal full NX package?

I have 5 seats of NX6 that include Modeling, Drafting, and Sheet Metal.

I also have a single license that includes Sheet Metal, Shape Studio, Drafting, Motion Simulation, and Manufacturing. I was under the impression that the only thing not included was the "Advanced Simulation" which I didn't have a use for and couldn't justify the additional cost for a program I didn't need.

I also have an active maintenance subscription with access to the newest updates and patches.

Is the CAM aspect something not included in this setup or is that an additional bundle? I could justify the cost of this if that were the case as the time saved and material wasted would more then offset that of the bundle..

 

[looslib]

The seat with Manufacturing should give you 2-axis lathe and 3-axis mill capability, if I remember correctly. That does include post_builder and UG/Post, too.

There may be some additional modules that need to be installed for it all to work.


"Wildfires are dangerous, hard to control, and economically catastrophic."

Ben Loosli

 

[wmalan]

You have design seats of NX. (plus one bundle of Manufacturing is seems).

Talk to your reseller about NX's "Cam Express" for your programmers.

http://www.plm.automation.siemens.com/en_us/products/velocity/camexpress/index.shtml

It's NX's cam only package. Same interface so everyone is on the same page. Perfect for your concurrent design thru manufacture issues.

You won't have to deal with the "wall" between design and manufacture. If you move a hole - the toolpath will update with it if required. Make a pocket bigger-smaller? Same deal. It comes with a few of NX's geometry tools but all the cool cam tools depending on what level you need (2.5-5axis machining). The pricing is VERY competitive with Mastercam with the added bonus of interactive design and manufacture.

--
Bill