AACHEN, Germany, May 7, 2020 – To keep pace with the fast changing requirements of the optics market, ModuleWorks has added several new features to its ultra-precision machining core. These new features advance the overall strategy of combining conventional CAM machining patterns like roughing, drilling and chamfering with the needs of ultra-precision machining.

The input data for ultra-precision machining are different to those in standard CAD/CAM systems. Optical features are often defined by formulas, polynomials and point clouds. ModuleWorks accepts a mixture of these different data types as input for toolpath generation and now also accepts so-called secondary drive surfaces that provide optional control of the tool orientation motion. This new feature smooths out vibrations and orientation changes for improved multi-axis turning and milling of complex workpieces.

A spiral morph pattern has been developed for manufacturing non-rotational symmetrical molds for lenses. The morph pattern delivers enhanced precision by generating a continuous toolpath without abrupt changes in the tool direction.

Furthermore, new application-driven projection methods ensure optimal pattern distribution onto surfaces for manufacturing parts within required form and positional tolerances. In addition, new projection methods enable inside and outside diamond turning.

New Ultra-Precision Machining Features

Spiral Morph Pattern

This new toolpath pattern enhances the precision of non-rotational symmetrical parts. This feature is in high demand for manufacturing molds for elliptical lenses where a continuous toolpath from the outer elliptical contour to the circular center of the parts is needed. The spiral morph pattern creates a spiral toolpath which morphs the elliptic outer contour into a circular one in the center. Users benefit from a continuous toolpath without abrupt change in the tool direction, which enhances precision.

The algorithm interpolates between the outer and inner input curves, which can both be arbitrarily formed. You can also control other parameters such as the cutting direction and the distance between adjacent toolpaths (step-over).

Point Data Import

New projection methods are now available for projecting toolpath patterns onto the surface of a part.

Standard methods use Z-axis projection to project a pattern from top to bottom onto a surface, but z-axis projection does not deliver appropriate toolpaths for all types of part. ModuleWorks has developed application-driven solutions that complement the Z-axis projection with two new methods. Each method is appropriate for specific part shapes. The three projection types are:

1. Z-Axis Projection: the standard projection method. The toolpath pattern is generated in the xy-plane and projected along the z-axis onto the surface.
2. Point Projection: The toolpath pattern is generated on a plane which is parallel to the xy-plane at a specified height and then projected towards (or away) from a point on the z-axis at a given height. Its preferred application is, for example, for strongly curved lens surfaces which are not completely covered by Z-axis projection. Point projection can also be combined with the spiral morph pattern to manufacture asymmetric molds such as D-segments.
3. Line Projection: A helix toolpath pattern (axis on the z-axis) is generated and radially projected towards (or away) from the z-axis. It is predominantly used for tube-shaped parts. It generates a revolving pattern which can cover either the inner or outer surface. A typical application area is turning vertical walls on an asymmetric die using inside and outside diamond turning.

Point and Line Projection

Invitation

FARMINGTON HILLS, MI, USA, May 7, 2020 – CCE, a leading provider of advanced CAD interoperability technology, has launched a free cloud CAD viewer product, EnSuite-Cloud, to assist remote working during the current COVID crisis.

EnSuite-Cloud is a free CAD viewer that works directly on any browser. Users can view files from all major CAD formats, including CATIA V5, CATIA V6 (3DXML), SOLIDWORKS, NX, Creo, Autodesk Inventor, Solid Edge, JT and glTF among others.

EnSuite-Cloud uses an advanced web rendering engine to power its viewer that is significantly faster, and offers much greater performance optimizations than other rendering engines, especially when dealing with large 3D CAD models, both parts and assemblies.

“The current crisis has forced companies to get innovative with remote work methodologies, while being careful with resources under these trying times. EnSuite-Cloud truly democratizes CAD by empowering everyone with free access to high quality 3D CAD viewing technology regardless of their location. Investing in expensive CAD viewing technology, or worse still using a CAD license, is a resource drain most companies can’t afford today. EnSuite-Cloud is free and accessible directly on any browser. Users don’t have to worry about installing new software upgrades. Periodic updates will be delivered automatically without causing any disruption to the user. We are hoping it helps companies continue with their engineering innovation under these challenging times,” said Vinay Wagle, CCE’s V.P. of Sales & Marketing.

Users can not only view multi-CAD files in their browser, but also be able to measure, evaluate bounding box and create section views of the model among other things.

EnSuite-Cloud is built using CCE’s proprietary CAD interoperability technology that is currently being licensed by several top CAD Independent Software Vendors (ISVs). As a result, it is completely CAD independent. Users do not need licenses of the CAD systems to view files of those systems. It is also platform independent and can be viewed on any of the supported browsers.

For additional information, please visit the EnSuite-Cloud page on our website or click here to start viewing CAD files for free.

About CCE:

Incorporated in Michigan, CCE has more than 25 years of CAD/CAM/CAE software development experience, as well as an extensive background in related services. Since 1989, CCE’s focus in CAD technology & application development has spearheaded its mission to deliver customers value through innovative, disciplined, and communications-focused technology products and services. CCE has offices located in Farmington Hills, Michigan and Fort Lee, New Jersey. For more information on CCE’s products and services, visit www.cadcam-e.com.

SOUTH FLORIDA, FL, USA, May 6, 2020 – Nano Dimension Ltd. (Nasdaq, TASE: NNDM), a leading Additively Manufactured Electronics (AME)/PE (Printed Electronics) provider, announced the partnership with Accelonix as the Company’s new agent for the French market.

Accelonix, headquartered in France, has been introducing, selling and supporting products in the French electronics market since 1984. Internationally, the Accelonix group has installed more than 2000 test systems in the maintenance/repair sector. It’s most notable success to date is in the market of in-circuit test systems. As pioneers in “flying probe” fixtureless test, the Accelonix group is recognized as leaders in educating industry and promoting this valuable test technique. The Accelonix group is responsible for over 150 installations throughout France, Benelux and Spain.

“One of our major strong points is our historical commitment to promoting and supporting innovative products. Additive Manufacturing of Electronics will be the next evolution of electronics fabrication as it makes designs beyond all existing IPC rules possible and manufacturable,” said Jonathan Hall, Managing Director of Accelonix. “We are happy to partner with Nano Dimension, the market leader in printed electronics/AME technology.”

“It is great to partner with the market leader in France. Accelonix has an excellent reputation in the electronics industry and long-term relationships with a large customer base.  We are fortunate to join forces with them,” said Valentin Storz, General Manager of Nano Dimension Europe.

About Accelonix

Accelonix is a group of companies operating across Western Europe serving the electronics industry by offering specialized sales and support. They provide a key interface between customers and suppliers offering market-leading products and services. To guarantee excellent support and to maximize the return on investment, Accelonix works closely with a portfolio of industry-leading suppliers, selected for their suitability to the European market in terms of their technology, flexibility, and scope of expertise. For more information, please visit  www.accelonix.com.

About Nano Dimension

Nano Dimension (Nasdaq, TASE: NNDM) is a provider of intelligent machines for the fabrication of Additively Manufactured Electronics (AME). High fidelity active electronic and electromechanical subassemblies are integral enablers of autonomous intelligent drones, cars, satellites, smartphones, and in vivo medical devices. They necessitate iterative development, IP safety, fast time-to-market and device performance gains, thereby mandating AME for in-house, rapid prototyping and production. Nano Dimension machines serve cross-industry needs by depositing proprietary consumable conductive and dielectric materials simultaneously, while concurrently integrating in-situ capacitors, antennas, coils, transformers and electromechanical components, to function at unprecedented performance. Nano Dimension bridges the gap between PCB and semiconductor integrated circuits. A revolution at the click of a button: From CAD to a functional high-performance AME device in hours, solely at the cost of the consumable materials. For more information, please visit www.nano-di.com.

SURREY, UK, May 6, 2020 – An array of new and enhanced functionality keeps the latest digital twin software from Hexagon at the very forefront of Industry 4.0 Smart Factory technology, by increasing CNC program quality through automatic and predictive analysis.

NCSIMUL virtually builds the real-life machining environment to avoid errors, decrease set-up times and switch CNC programs between machines.

The 2021 release features a new comparison mode which detects excessive material, during a fast and hidden simulation. It shows a solid comparison between the CAD/CAM models or previous cut stock, and the NCSIMUL simulated model.

Technical Director Philippe Legoupi says this new item of functionality is the only way to detect unwanted rest stock on a large part. It shows a list of the excess material that’s left, and can also be displayed in a 3D window linked to the list. Amongst its numerous benefits: finding small, missing drill holes on large aerospace components; and finding missing holes which need to be connected on mould bodies and hydraulic parts.

Integrated to NCDoc, Dimensioning is a new function which creates control instructions for operators during the CNC process. “It defines a dimension check-list with user-defined tolerances; automatically defines the minimum measurement needed for each cut; generates a comprehensive view for the programmer and operator on the 3D simulation; and works with the NCDoc documentation template.” This saves time and money, particularly when using the Wizard to create the correct number of measurements, even when using a probe tool on the machine.

A new set of options quickly evaluate tools that can benefit from air-cutting optimization, with the ‘out of material working time’ in the sequence list. This works with the NCDoc documentation template, and customizes stock nearness values for each sequence, and the optimization is automatically stored for future strategies.

Enhancements to editing Setup reduce simulation time by merging fixtures, parts and rough stock elements from one, or multiple, CAD files read in NCSIMUL. “It creates simple geometric rough stock – either cylinder or cubes – an automatic part envelope; and all setup elements can move up or down.”

Improvements to mill-turn tooling management for ESPRIT CAM and TopSolid CAM interface: With a new ‘Configuration interface file’ associated to each digital twin, it is now possible to define the mapping of tool assembly positioning – station number, turret and orientation –between the CAM system and NCSIMUL. This means the interfaces can crate NCSIMUL projects, ready to run the simulation.

A simplified 2D display for turning parts improves the analysis of dynamic rough stock. Philippe Legoupi explains: “It quickly displays the tool and toolpath next to the cut model and reference part profiles.”

The document centre is now available online, and includes additional descriptions of the released versions, including more details under the ‘case studies,’ and ‘focus on’ tabs.

Finally, for cutting tool wear simulation as defined in the tool magazine, a button now runs the simulation for tools either ‘fresh out of the box,’ or ‘worn down.’ User-defined values apply for each cutting tool, and the system can check if a worn tool will generate alarms or collisions with unwanted rest stock material. This defines the sharpening rules, and decreases tool consumption.

Concluding, Philippe Legoupi says: “The enhanced functionality in NCSIMUL 2021 further increases shop-floor productivity and reduces manufacturing costs.”

About Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence Division

Hexagon is a global leader in sensor, software and autonomous solutions. We are putting data to work to boost efficiency, productivity, and quality across industrial, manufacturing, infrastructure, safety, and mobility applications.

Our technologies are shaping urban and production ecosystems to become increasingly connected and autonomous – ensuring a scalable, sustainable future.

Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division provides solutions that utilise data from design and engineering, production and metrology to make manufacturing smarter.

Hexagon (Nasdaq Stockholm: HEXA B) has approximately 20,000 employees in 50 countries and net sales of approximately 3.8bn EUR. Learn more at hexagon.com and follow us @HexagonAB.

ANN ARBOR, MI, USA, May 6, 2020 – CIMdata, Inc., the leading global PLM strategic management consulting and research firm, announces an upcoming free educational webinar, “PLM Benefits, Metrics & ROI.” The webinar will take place on Thursday, 28 May 2020, at 11:00 a.m. (EDT) and will last for one hour.

This webinar will present ways to develop viable, realistic metrics and predict the cost of undertaking an initial product lifecycle management (PLM) investment or upgrade. Regardless of where they are on the digitalization journey, attendees will find this webinar to be timely and informative. It will provide useful guidance on justifying PLM (and other similar tools) that can have a significant, positive impact on an organization.

This webinar will help attendees:

1. Understand how to define metrics for PLM and related digitalization initiatives.
2. Understand what to do if a baseline cannot be established for the needed metrics.
3. Understand how metrics can support PLM adoption.
4. Understand where other companies stand and how they use PLM metrics.

According to John MacKrell, CIMdata’s Chairman, and the host for this webinar, “Organizations that CIMdata works with often ask two questions during their PLM journey—First, what is it going to cost to put in place? Second, how will it create benefits now and in the future of the organization.”

Mr. MacKrell has over 40 years of experience in the application of computer-based solutions to engineering and manufacturing, with more than 20 years of those years at CIMdata. He has held senior positions in product management, marketing, research and development, and consulting.

This webinar will be useful to people from many parts of an organization, as PLM is cross-functional and feeds ERP, manufacturing, service, and other downstream processes. Specifically, senior and middle managers, PLM team members, PLM users, IT, purchasing, and anyone impacted by how an organization justifies, promotes, and communicates PLM as a valuable solution in an organization will find the information pertinent and valuable.

During the webinar, attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions about the topics discussed.

1. To find out more, visit: https://www.cimdata.com/en/education/educational-webinars/webinar-plm-benefits-metrics-and-roi.
2. To register for this webinar, please visit https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/2863092400029130499.

MAYSVILLE, KY, USA, May 5, 2020 – Carlson Software has released the FiX1 Fixed Installation Scanner for volumetric scanning and stockpile measurement. Designed as a permanent installation, the FiX1 is used to automate the delivery of volumetric data without the need for personnel and additional measurement tools on-site.

Carlson FiX1 – Fixed Installation Scanner

The Carlson FiX1 provides a simple, automated method for obtaining volumetric data of stockpiles in many different installation scenarios. The instrument can be mounted upside down or right-side up dependent on the stockpile placement. After installation, no knowledge of surveying, data processing, or point cloud manipulation is required by users. It can be scheduled to scan, process, and deliver a result without user intervention.

The instrument is accessed through the FiX1 Web UI. Once a volumetric scan is activated, the FiX1 Web UI will generate a point cloud, extract the region of interest, and automatically calculate the volume of material in that area.

“What I think users will really like about the FiX1 is that it can provide a complete history of scans,” says Brad Husack, Carlson support and special projects engineer. “Volumes are stored and users can download results at any time”.

Additionally, the Web UI provides a graphical representation of historical changes. Scan density and coverage can be user-defined through the setting of laser and angle resolutions in the Web UI.

The FiX1 features a rugged IP67 design for operation even in extreme environments. It can be remotely connected through either cellular data, Wi-Fi, or ethernet connection.

For more information about the Carlson FiX1, visit carlsonsw.com/fix1 or contact your local Carlson sales representative by visiting carlsonsw.com/where-to-purchase/dealers.

About Carlson Software Inc.

Carlson Software Inc. specializes in CAD design software, field data collection, laser measurement, and machine control products for the civil engineering, surveying, GIS, construction, and mining industries worldwide, providing one-source technology solutions for the entire project cycle. Carlson Software is headquartered in Maysville, Ky., U.S.A., with branch offices in Boston, MA, Almere, The Netherlands; Brisbane, Australia; Ottawa, Canada; and York, England. For more information, visit http://www.carlsonsw.com.

QUEBEC, QC, Canada, May 5, 2020 – InnovMetric Software Inc., the global leader in smart 3D metrology software solutions, today announced the 2020 release of PolyWorks|DataLoop, a major upgrade to its data management and digital connectivity solution. Featuring a redesigned architecture based on the industry standard Microsoft SQL Server, PolyWorks|DataLoop 2020 provides a robust and scalable 3D measurement data management solution that optimally handles the vast amount of data produced by a manufacturing organization’s 3D measurement activities. Thanks to a powerful and comprehensive search engine, it delivers effortless enterprise-wide access to metrology data and results, eliminating the need to find information manually. It also offers user permissions management to control access to their metrology data. PolyWorks|DataLoop 2020 offers all the functionalities that an IT team expects from a professional data management solution, ensuring a smooth integration within existing enterprise processes.

“The phenomenal rise in the use of 3D measurement data in recent years has led to data management complexities and the urgent need for more collaborative processes,” said Marc Soucy, President of InnovMetric. He added, “We heard from frustrated customers about the difficulties of accessing 3D measurement data files, the performance issues that occur with large file transfers, the lack of robustness arising from manually enforced naming conventions, and the difficulties in general of collaborating on 3D inspection projects. PolyWorks|DataLoop is the first data management solution on the market that fully addresses all these issues.”

Robust 3D measurement data management

PolyWorks|DataLoop is a scalable data management solution that stores inspection and reverse-engineering projects, their revisions, and 3D measurement data in a centralized database that is easily replicated and backed up. PolyWorks|DataLoop automates the handling of project files and folders to eliminate the multitude of manual time-consuming operations that may end up corrupting the data. It speeds 3D dimensional analyses and large datasets into reviewers’ hands while minimizing the use of network and storage resources, thanks to intelligent caching strategies, minimal data transfer techniques, and minimal disk space use.

Data access made easy

PolyWorks|DataLoop unleashes the true power of 3D measurement data and results through fast and easy access, as users:

1. Identify and index the key pieces of information in their parts and processes
2. Find and open projects and pieces by searching them based on indexed properties
3. Use powerful filtering tools to narrow the search results and easily find the data they’re looking for

The days of browsing for a file or folder are history, as instantaneous access to real-time measurement data and results becomes the new normal. In addition, PolyWorks|DataLoop allows customers to set up a restricted portal for external collaborators and to manage project permissions to protect templates from being overwritten.

Digital connectivity that boosts teamwork efficiency

PolyWorks|DataLoop enriches and dynamizes the processes and human interactions of the teams that capture or need access to 3D measurement data, as users enterprisewide can:

1. Review data through a Web or mobile interface
2. Share 3D measurement data through clickable hyperlinks
3. Monitor and analyze 3D measurement results in real time through customizable dashboards
4. And review, edit, and measure inspection projects concurrently

Availability

PolyWorks|DataLoop 2020 is available through InnovMetric’s Master Distributor reseller network.

About InnovMetric

Founded in 1994 and headquartered in Quebec, QC, Canada, with subsidiaries worldwide, InnovMetric Software Inc. is the leading provider of universal 3D metrology software solutions. The world’s largest industrial manufacturing organizations (Toyota, GM, Volkswagen, Honda, BMW, Daimler, Ford, Rolls-Royce, Pratt & Whitney, Boeing, Embraer, Bombardier, Apple, and many more) trust InnovMetric’s PolyWorks software solutions and associated technical services to maximize the benefits of 3D measurement technologies for their engineering and manufacturing applications.

With its subsidiaries and joint ventures, InnovMetric has 450 employees in 16 countries: Canada, United States, Mexico, Brazil, France, Italy, Spain, Czech Republic, Netherlands, Sweden, Turkey, South Africa, India, Thailand, China, and Japan. For more information, visit https://www.innovmetric.com.

QUEBEC, QC, Canada, May 5, 2020 – InnovMetric, the global leader in smart 3D metrology software solutions, today introduced PolyWorks MS 2020, the latest release of its 3D dimensional analysis and quality control solution. PolyWorks MS 2020 offers multipiece editing capabilities that accelerate the preparation of robust inspection projects and facilitate data analysis. This new major release also extends the universality of its digitizing hub by adding support for new measurement instruments, and increases CNC CMM productivity by accelerating the execution of measurement sequences.

“Successfully deploying the PolyWorks enterprise platform in the market is not only about closing major business deals. It’s also about accepting a great responsibility,” said Marc Soucy, President of InnovMetric. He added, “Every year, we’re on a mission, as our customers expect us to improve their daily performance, offer the new dimensional controls that they need, and expand the universality of our platform by adding and enhancing our 3D measurement hardware interfaces. With PolyWorks 2020, we’re right on target once again.”

Boost the quality of project setup and analysis by leveraging multiple scanned models

PolyWorks|Inspector now allows users to modify and add data alignments, measurement objects, and inspection reports for multiple measured pieces at once.

The new capability will allow PolyWorks users to more easily prepare robust inspection projects that handle all pieces. When a user builds an initial project and starts measuring pieces, he may encounter a problematic piece for which the object extraction parameters do not work properly. The new multipiece editing technology allows him to fine-tune the object’s extraction and fitting parameters until satisfactory results are obtained, and then apply these changes to all previously scanned pieces in one operation, to ensure that the new parameters do not negatively impact the other pieces.

Multipiece editing is also a very powerful tool for quickly investigating a production failure by analyzing previously fabricated pieces. When a failing piece is detected, new measurement objects and reports are generally required to get additional information. PolyWorks 2020 now allows users to add these new objects and reports to a subset of selected pieces in a single operation, to analyze object measurement results, trend charts, and statistics on these pieces, with the goal of better understanding the conditions that led to the failure.

Benefit from the extended universality of the portable metrology solution

PolyWorks MS 2020 enhances its portable metrology workflows and adds interfaces for new instruments, expanding the limits of the PolyWorks|Inspector platform:

1. Construct planes and lines from already measured objects and access the complete GD&T toolbox and fitting statistics;
2. Trigger the use of Creaform laser scanners within the Play Inspection tool;
3. Enjoy high-performance measurement methods that leverage the capabilities of the Leica ATS600 tracker; and,
4. Connect to a MicroRidge MobileCollect wireless system and bring measurements from handheld gauges into inspection projects.

Increase CNC CMM productivity

More and more CNC CMM users are adopting PolyWorks MS as they discover its outstanding ease of use and performance. Version 2020 enhances and broadens its CNC CMM solution to help users increase their productivity in their ultracompetitive markets by:

1. Accelerating the execution of CNC CMM sequences while probing in fly mode (up to 50% faster) and laser scanning;
2. Ensuring that CMM positions are reachable by the machine to avoid invalid moves when defining a sequence offline, or assist when porting a sequence to a CMM with a different measurement volume; and,
3. Offering the control of Hexagon and Zeiss CMM-based laser scanners through I++.

Accelerate inspections tasks 

PolyWorks MS 2020 offers enhanced tools and new technologies that eliminate the guesswork and help users work faster. Now, they can:

1. Optimize and augment their GD&T toolkit, thanks to improved algorithms that accelerate 2-point distance calculations and produce more accurate and repeatable results, and the support of a new Combined Zone modifier;
2. Quickly learn and master interactive modes, thanks to new user-friendly contextual toolbars and improved guidance;
3. Easily share their customized toolbars and their macros with colleagues and partners;
4. Link multipiece inspection projects to their Excel spreadsheets with PolyWorks|ReportLoop; and,
5. Integrate mixed reality display from PolyWorks|AR into their guided measurement workflows.

About InnovMetric

Founded in 1994 and headquartered in Quebec, QC, Canada, with subsidiaries worldwide, InnovMetric Software Inc. is the leading provider of universal 3D metrology software solutions. The world’s largest industrial manufacturing organizations (Toyota, GM, Volkswagen, Honda, BMW, Daimler, Ford, Rolls-Royce, Pratt & Whitney, Boeing, Embraer, Bombardier, Apple, and many more) trust InnovMetric’s PolyWorks software solutions and associated technical services to maximize the benefits of 3D measurement technologies for their engineering and manufacturing applications.

With its subsidiaries and joint ventures, InnovMetric has 450 employees in 16 countries: Canada, United States, Mexico, Brazil, France, Italy, Spain, Czech Republic, Netherlands, Sweden, Turkey, South Africa, India, Thailand, China, and Japan. For more information, visit https://www.innovmetric.com/