Japan's Camtus exhibits an enhanced version of CAM that supports 5-axis machining and turning functions

Figure 1 5-axis machining of SpeedyMill. Features are compatible with 3-axis machining. Figure 2 The coordinates of holes and grooves can be automatically extracted from the 3D model. Japan's Camtus (Headquarters: Nishinomiya City, Hyogo Prefecture) exhibited products such as the 5-axis machining function of the CAD/CAM system 'Speedy mill' and the enhanced version of the turning machining function. In terms of 5-axis machining functions, in order to achieve differentiation from overseas 5-axis machining CAMs, the feature of compatibility with 3-axis machining functions is highlighted. In addition, in terms of turning processing, the positions of holes and curves can be automatically extracted from the 3D model, which changes the way that users have to give instructions through man-machine dialogue, thus saving time. The 5-axis machining function is usually used for cutting shapes with flat ridges such as aircraft parts, but in some cases, after the roughing (3-axis) is completely completed, 5-axis machining of the sides with a ball nose end mill is used. Finishing, the rib can create subtle bends that make it less accurate. With Camtus' CAD/CAM, 5-axis machining can be performed immediately after a slight roughing, then roughing again and then finishing with 5-axis machining. Camtus' CAD/CAM features this ease of repeatable 3- and 5-axis machining as a selling point (Figure 1). CAD/CAM for the turning function has already started production, and this time, a 3D model recognition function has been added. It is planned to be available as a product in the first quarter of 2009. Even if the direction of the hole and curve is inclined, Camtus' CAD/CAM can automatically create the corresponding NC program (Fig. 2). In addition, the company is developing a 'blank unfolding' function that can calculate the shape of the sheet before forming from the shape of the forming result in sheet metal stamping with deep drawing. Camtus developed the PrePost Processor using the calculation software (solver) of the Advanced Simulation Technology Of Mechanics Ru0026D in Japan. The intended use of Camtus is that when a user's processing company receives an inquiry, the PrePost Processor calculates how many blanks are required for an estimate. According to a certain theory, the function of calculating in a 2-dimensional manner has been realized before, and the PrePost Processor performs this function in the calculation of the 3-dimensional finite element method. Because it is used only to understand the general shape, it is planned to set the price at no more than 1 million yen. Production is scheduled to start in the third quarter of 2009.