3D Systems released production-machining software GibbsCAM 2016 on May 3 and is touting a number of improvements from the previous edition, which was built on Universal Kinematic Machine (UKM) technology.
The GibbsCAM platform is designed to complement existing additive manufacturing processes as well as traditional manufacturing environments and works with a large array of machining and programming operations, such as multi-task machining, 2-5 axis milling, high-speed machining and solid modeling.
Designing CAM software to be easy to use is incredibly important as long as there is no sacrifice for what a user can do with it. 3D Systems wants you to know that they’ve worked on making the new version of GibbsCAM better at simulations and thread milling, and that it has more support for tapered threads of both single and multi-point tools. But CAM software has to include better toolpath strategies and milling strategies.
The company ongoing partnership with VoluMill gives users toolpath strategies for high speed roughing and time-cutting open-face milling strategies within GibbsCAM 2016. Take 5-axis milling, for example. With GibbsCAM 2016, users can use the Flowline option to define toolpath direction according to the natural flow of any particular surface.
There are some promising-looking oriented turning capabilities, new options for 5-axis drilling, multi-gauge checking strategies and stepped pocket roughing. The new oriented turning capabilities allow users more capability in controlling the interplay between tools and parts. For example, CNC programmers can use one tool at multiple B orientations, and reorient tool groups for other spindles in an easier fashion.
But how easy is it to adjust to a new version of CAM software? Most CAM software packages are pretty idiosyncratic, so 3D Systems would need to have been working with the people who use this software on factory floors around the world. There are a huge variety of manufacturing workflows out there, and many machine processes that could always be further optimized.
Calvin Hur, vice president of software products for 3D Systems, included this remark in a recent company press release, which indicates that they’ve been out with CAM users (specifically GibbsCAM users, I presume): “By working closely with 3D Systems’ users over the past year, we’ve enhanced our understanding of the evolving needs of the factory floor, and are pleased to offer these improvements to help our customers maximize efficiency, safety and profitability.”
There are a lot of improvements in GibbsCAM 2016, and they’ve also created a phenomenal video series that goes into great detail by showing the software in action.