In today's fast paced industry, the ability to produce high quality parts in the shortest time possible is more important than ever. From toolpaths to tooling, many technologies exist to help users optimize their machines performance and reduce cycle times. However, one step in the process that can be time consuming, especially for parts with tight tolerances, is part set-up.
In this day and age, datum probing is well established and is standard practice in most shops, allowing for reduced set-up times and increased productivity. Datum probing is often done as a manual process at the machine controller. This approach is fine for single parts, but when automation is involved, manual probing at the machine is not an option. In this case, probing cycles must be part of the NC program.
To ensure a proper part set-up when running with automation, an NC program must include probing cycles to ensure the correct stock is loaded and additional probing cycles to set the program zero. This often includes cycles that adjust the part alignment and set the program zero based on a specific geometric feature of the stock material.
CAMplete TruePath 2019 introduces probing cycles that will allow users to include probing directly in their NC programs. Built on the existing CAMplete TruePath framework, users will be able to add datum probing cycles and stock material checks as they set their job up in a virtual machining environment, regardless of what CAM system they use.
Programming datum probing cycles in a virtual machining environment allows the user to work directly on their geometry and simulate their NC program, including probing cycles, before sending the program to their machine. This allows the user to feel confident that they are cutting the correct stock and producing parts that are to spec when running unattended.
In addition to probing for automation, having an NC program that includes datum probing cycles for one-off jobs will also save the time by not having the operator manually probe the part. Instead, they can focus on keeping the machines running instead of machine set-up.
Authored by Ivan Mikesic, Technical Support Manager, CAMplete Solutions
For more information contact:
CAMplete Solutions Inc.
120 Otonabee Dr.
Kitchener, Ontario
519-725-2557
www.camplete.com