FANUC America’s new machining simulator features Autodesk Fusion 360 CAD/CAM/CAE software and custom programming designed by ModuleWorks for part design and engineering, to CNC programming, to virtual production simulation.
The FANUC Machining Simulator cloud-based 3D CAD, CAM and CAE software platform works on both Mac and PC.
Students can use Fusion 360 to perform CAD/CAM work and the included post processors will convert the designs into G-code for the CNC to command the machine tool. A G-code editor is included to enable modification before the program is sent to the CNC.
Students can easily import their programs directly to the CNC using the FANUC FASBacCNC (FOCAS Automation Solution Backup CNC) user interface, as well as back-up critical data.
Based on the industry standard FANUC Series 0i-Model F, the FANUC CNC Simulator can be operated as either a 3-axis mill or a 2-axis lathe. Users can run programs, manage tooling and make any modifications on the control just like they would in a real manufacturing environment.
The FANUC CNC Simulator includes a Manual Guide in Conversational Programming software to teach shop floor programming. An integrated PC is embedded to run the Fusion 360 and ModuleWorks simulation software.
Users can virtually manufacture parts in milling or turning environments with realistic kinematics and structure, because the simulation is based on actual CNC position data, not on the G-code program. This provides a more realistic simulation as the virtual machine reacts like a real machine. Manual machine functions like jog, hand-wheel and reference cycles also work like a real machine.
The software also uses color-coded tool paths, back-plot and cut locations to make it easier for users to identify the tool, path and cutting result.
Real-time collision detection uses visual and audio signals to notify users of collisions.
The milling simulation includes a 21-tool changer and the turning simulation includes a 12-tool turret. Milling tool data can be freely assigned or imported from the CNC Simulator, while turning uses a predefined set of turning tools that cover a range applications.
Fusion 360 is free for students, start-ups, educators and hobbyists once they create an Autodesk account. Commercial users can sign up for a free one-year subscription through a special promotion with FANUC.
For more information visit the FANUC America website.