The company's Wizard thread milling software is available to download for free at www.carboloy.com/wizard/default.htm. Users need to supply basic contact information--allowing the company to e-mail threadmill program upgrades--and they are then directed to a page for immediate download of the software.

The software is said to be a user-friendly program that simplifies the complicated programming cycles associated with thread milling by quickly generating CNC codes for specific threadmill cycles. The software requires only that operators enters the type of thread, diameter, depth and material group they are working in. The software then generates the machine code, which is said to reduce setup time and create a perfect thread from the very first cut. According to the company, it improves accuracy and thread tolerance by selecting the optimum cutter and cutter parameters. In addition, productivity increases are gained through the removal of manual calculations and elimination of possible tool breakage, the company says.

Additional features of the software include built-in logic that can program a 180-degree or 90-degree arc into a cut to eliminate vibrations; three radial cut division options; and five axial cut division options, allowing the user to only select cuts that make a quality thread.

RIBS, the Robotically Integrated Bending Solution, is a retrofittable system from Automated Concepts, Inc. that brings a robot into coordinated motion with any brand of CNC hydraulic press brake. With RIBS, users don't have to replace all of their equipment in order to update and automated the sheet metal bending processes.

RIBS also features off-line programming of the entire process, which reduces downtime. The system uses standard CAD files of the user's parts, offering process verification through a virtual 3D interface and providing full use of the press brake. The system's SimulEasy software allows the user to program an entire bend sequence offline and then upload the program into both the press brake and robot. The SimulEasy program also assists in tooling selection, robot gripper design, re-grip coordination and cell layout, as well as checking clearances and ordering bend sequences.

Worker safety is another advantage of the automated press brake system, the company says, with users potentially benefiting from reduced repetitive motion and lifting strain injuries and reduced costs in workers' compensation insurance.

Mentioning the state of Nebraska might conjure images of farmland, goldenrods and cornhusks. From a manufacturer's point of view, the state is home to facilities of all sizes, some of which are located in small towns.

Nestled in a farming community of 1,500 people, MetalQuest Unlimited (Hebron, Nebraska) is a 40-person shop serving the petroleum, energy distribution, hydraulics, agriculture, electronics and automotive parts sectors. At its inception in 1996, the company had one multi-axis CNC lathe. It has since added a variety of multi-functional CNC machining centers and lathes.

Desiring a better method of managing its tooling inventory, the company turned to ToolBoss from Kennametal Inc. (Latrobe, Pennsylvania). Scott Harms, president and founder of MetalQuest, became acquainted with ToolBoss, an e-storage tool inventory control system with imbedded tool management software, when attending the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) in September 2000. By July 2002, MetalQuest had purchased a one-bay unit. Six months later, a second bay was added, and in early 2004, the company purchased two additional bays. Today, using its four-bay unit, the company stores more than 2,500 tools and controls keys to other cabinets that contain hundreds of other items.

"We were seeking an efficient method of gathering tool usage information at point-of-use so that we could better understand the consumption rate of metalcutting tools for particular jobs," explains Mr. Harms. "The new program has allowed us to automate our inventory tracking system and improve cash flow by reducing tooling inventory levels. The system has proved to be a wise investment because it empowers us to compete and thrive in the global economy."

Capabilities such as tracking tool inventory, raising operator accountability and providing data about tool usage have provided the company with a means to save time and money. As another result of using the new system, the company reports that machine operators now have an orderly place to store inserts, tools, tool parts and unrelated tools that are commonly used in the shop.

Another benefit is the ability to store multiple items, including non-Kennametal tools, in one drawer, and in a more organized fashion than before. The company has noticeably improved its real-time knowledge of inventory levels. As a result of this upgrade, machine operators can locate tools in 30 seconds, compared to 5 minutes of searching through drawers, toolboxes and canisters on the shop floor. Likewise, it is virtually impossible to run out of tools because restocking of inserts, drills, taps and end mills occurs on an as-needed basis.

Customers also have the option to use job status or "setup" sheets, as well as the optional bar code reader to accelerate setup and production times. This can reduce probable operator errors, such as choosing an incorrect tool for a particular job.

MetalQuest has integrated ToolBoss with its setup sheets, which instruct operators as to how to prepare machines for specific jobs. The appropriate inserts, toolholders, and toolholder parts needed are conveyed to operators. To obtain the necessary tools, users can search or scroll down the computer screen.

"The program was well received on the shop floor," says Mr. Harms. "Within a couple of days, our personnel had familiarized themselves with how the system works and had integrated it into their routine."

During the past several years, the company has transformed itself from a shop producing maximum orders of 500 pieces to one that now produces 500-piece minimum orders. Additionally, its operator-to-CNC lathe ratio to has been reduced to 0.5:1.

The company speculates that if its operations resembled a traditional custom-machined parts manufacturer, it would need to employ ten additional machinists.

The Pentium class computer is loaded with Microsoft Windows 2000 to run Kennametal's Automated Tool Management Solutions (ATMS) software. The menu includes a real-time ordering option that complements the system's tool kitting, presetting and tool assembly management features.

MetalQuest says the network card allows it to maintain the database on its existing network for checking stock, doing analyses and placing orders from other computers.

Although the company has a four-bay setup, each system can control as many as ten bays in one unit, all of which are programmed to store an infinite number of items.

Based on single-piece frame cast from polymer composite material, Genesis(TM) 130H can be installed and re-located with no special lifting equipment. Direct-drive spindle motors eliminate need for mechanical adjustments, while cam-driven double gripper loader enables part load/unload times of 2 sec. Work area is isolated from machine frame to minimize thermal expansion from contact with hot chips. Stainless steel cutting chamber with steep inclination ensures that chips fall clear of work area.

Rochester, New York, February 16, 2006-- Gleason's new Genesis(TM) 130H CNC Vertical Hobbing Machine features a revolutionary new design that optimizes dry machining, significantly reduces floor space requirements and greatly improves cycle times.

The 130H Hobber is the first in a new family of gear production equipment from Gleason called Genesis(TM). All of the Genesis machines share a common platform: a single-piece frame cast from an advanced polymer composite material, which can be made faster, more accurately and with inherently more rigidity than conventional cast-iron assemblies. This common platform design also ensures a small, compact machine footprint and enables the user to install and re-locate the machine with no special lifting equipment or special foundations.

While the 130H Hobber can accommodate wet cutting processes, it is particularly well-suited for dry machining. The work area is completely isolated from the machine frame to minimize thermal expansion from contact with hot chips, and a stainless steel cutting chamber with steep inclination ensures that chips fall completely clear of the work area.

The 130H Hobber is equipped with an innovative new mechanical cam-driven double gripper loader fully integrated into the machine. As a result, costly non-productive time can be cut to a minimum, with part load/unload times as short as two seconds.

Unlike conventional hobbing machines, the Genesis 130H utilizes a new, patent-pending hob drive system to eliminate complicated mechanical and hydraulic clamping systems. Instead a simple "D-Drive" system enables the spindle to transmit more torque, with less runout, and at the same time accommodate the use of larger diameter hobs for greater performance and longer tool life.

The 130H also features direct-drive spindle motors, which further reduces setup and machining times by eliminating the need for mechanical adjustments and change gears. Higher acceleration/deceleration rates and increased torque, combined with faster axis motions reduce non-cutting time between cycles and increase overall productivity during machining.

Other significant features include:

o An Easy Access Service Module that consolidates hydraulics, lubrication and pneumatics into one location.

o Optional on-board chamfering and deburring capability.

o Availability of the latest SIEMENS or FANUC controls and the latest Gleason software running in a true Windows[R] environment.

o The chip conveyor may be located from either the side or rear of the machine to meet any cell/system arrangement.

Gleason Corporation is a world leader in the development, manufacture and sale of gear production machinery and related equipment. The Company's products are used by customers in automotive, truck, aircraft, agriculture, construction, power tool and marine industries and by a diverse set of customers serving various industrial equipment markets. Gleason has manufacturing operations in Rochester, New York; Rockford, Illinois; Dayton, Ohio; Plymouth, England; Munich and Ludwigsburg, Germany; Bangalore; India, Studen, Switzerland; and Harbin, China and has sales and service offices throughout the North and South America, Europe and in the Asia-Pacific region.

Promoting natural, 2-handed work style, FeatureCAM[R] 2006 features built-in 3Dconnexion controllers that let users pan, zoom, rotate, and spin models while editing, selecting, or drawing simultaneously with mouse. Commonly used functions can be mapped to buttons on motion controller through built-in control panel. Software creates operations from part features that contain all necessary machining parameters.

Revolutionary Motion Controller Technology Provides Breakthrough Ergonomic Solution for Production Programmers

Salt Lake City, UT - May 19, 2005 - Delcam USA, developer of FeatureCAM products, announces support for 3Dconnexion's line of motion controllers as part of the upcoming FeatureCAM 2006 release. Production CNC programmers will benefit from the combination of FeatureCAM's signature ease-of-use and the increased productivity made possible by the revolutionary and multiple award-winning motion controllers. Support for 3Dconnexion controllers has been built into FeatureCAM 2006 and drivers will ship with the 3Dconnexion devices.

3Dconnexion's motion controller devices enable users to pan, zoom, rotate, and spin models with fluid and precise light controller movements while editing, selecting, or drawing simultaneously with the mouse. This two-handed work style streamlines workflow by dramatically reducing the mouse movement required by the traditional mouse and keyboard combination. It also alleviates the need to shift between tasks.

Tom McCollough, Vice President of FeatureCAM Software Development explains, "Our customers asked for it, and we have responded. FeatureCAM is pleased to offer the option of using these motion controllers for improved ergonomics and productivity."

The patented core technology inside 3Dconnexion devices was developed for robotics and space exploration applications. In 1993, a 3D controller was used on the space shuttle Columbia, manipulating the first robotic arm in space. The high-precision optical measuring system delivers unparalleled performance and control with drift-free and calibration-less operation. Capitalizing on this proven technology, 3Dconnexion has continued to add to its line of motion controllers which now includes SpaceBall[R], SpaceMouse Plus[R], Space Traveler(TM), and SpacePilot(TM).

Typical in today's design environment is heavy use of the mouse for viewing, positioning, selecting and editing, leading to persistent strain in the overworked mouse hand. Motion controller users can map their commonly used functions to buttons on the motion controller through a built-in control panel for even greater comfort and efficiency.

"With FeatureCAM's intuitive software, their CAM solution is a perfect fit for our full range of 3D motion controllers which all promote working in a natural, intuitive, two-handed way. We are very pleased they are partnering with us and supporting our motion controller technology in their next release," says Jan Larsson, Director of Partner Marketing at 3Dconnexion.

The company has released its OpenCNC grinder for CNC ID, OD and centerless grinders. The grinder consists of hardware, software and documentation and has been engineered to meet the needs of machine builders, integrators, end-users and retrofitters who specialize in CNC grinding machines, the company says.

The grinder maintains the flexibility and power of open architecture, while providing ease of use and built-in features of a standard package, the company says. It is said to allow machine builders and end-users to easily upgrade or interchange machine hardware, software and peripheral components without having to re-engineer their existing machine logic.

The part programming features include: 11 wheel dressing routines, eight grinding sequences, advanced grinding wheel offset tools and an online help system. Each part program can contain as many as 20 grinding sequences.

The hardware/software package comes with wiring diagrams, documentation and pro-written PLC logic that allows machine builders or integrators to complete a control retrofit without having to spend weeks writing and debugging special machine logic, the company says.

The postprocessor is the last software link between an ideal CAD model and a "real" machined part. To what degree the postprocessor can take advantage of a CNC's capabilities, and vice versa, determines the number of available programming options and degree of programming difficulty. CNC/postprocessor rapport is particularly important for high speed machining (HSM).

There isn't a comprehensive, unifying solution that marries all CNCs and postprocessors in such a way. However, Siemens and ICAM have made a step in that direction by developing the CAM-Post Sinumerik 840D postprocessor, which is tailored specifically to the Siemens 840D control. This dedicated postprocessor speeds and simplifies programming, while taking some of the mystery out of accessing the control's high end HSM features.

"High speed machining, in particular, brings into play a lot of new CNC features that are not necessarily intuitive from the perspective of some CNC users," says Siemens' Norman Bleier. "Help in the postprocessor is another step in advancing the CNC concept to address the new challenges of high speed machining."

The Sinumerik CAM-Post version is an adaptation of ICAM's universal CAM-Post. It supports 840D control features such as:

* Local coordinate system programming, to allow 2 1/2-D cycles to be performed from any tool axis orientation

* Rotating Tool Center Point (RTCP) programming based on the 840D's transformation orientation (TRAORI) tool-tip programming capability, which is designed to simplify 5-D programming and tool compensation

* Circular Intermediate Point (CIP) and dual curve NURBS interpolation.

According to ICAM's Malcolm White, this CAM-Post version is also helpful for programming special Cycle832 and Cycle800 commands used by the 840D for high speed machining and coordinate frame transformation. It does this by providing an intuitive dialog box to choose parameters such as exact stop, acceleration pattern, feed forward control, and data compression, and then combines these into a single cycle command.

With Servo and Spindle High-Response Vector Software v4.0, high-speed and high-precision machining is achieved via use of servo processor at nanometer level of interpolation. It utilizes 16 mm count pulse coders, resonance filters, DSP technology, and FANUC FSSB communication system. Software can close current loop in 31.25 [micro]s, velocity loop at 62.5 [micro]s, and position loop at 250 [micro]s, and dedicated spindle processor helps achieve 12 kHz PWM frequency.

Charlottesville, va, july 15, 2005 - Machine tool builders and end users who demand the highest precision from their machines can see improvements in surface finish, cycle times and accuracy with the new Servo and Spindle High-Response Vector Software Version 4.0 (HRV4) from GE Fanuc Automation Americas, Inc., a unit of GE Industrial. Driving servo technology to the next level, the Servo and Spindle HRV4 features state-of-the-art processors, high-resolution 16MM count pulse coders, resonance filters and DSP technology.

"GE Fanuc servo and spindle motor performance continues to increase, and servo and spindle software must be capable of realizing these performance increases to achieve maximum results," explained Paul Webster, CNC motion manager for GE Fanuc Automation. "With the Servo and Spindle HRV4, high-speed and high-precision machining is achieved by using an ultra-fast servo processor at the nanometer level of interpolation. These features are a logical progression in the development of exceptional servo systems."

Servo and Spindle HRV4 is an advanced form of FOC (Field Oriented Control) that capitalizes on the current generation of high-speed DSPs and the FANUC FSSB communication system. Today's high-speed DSPs allow servo feedback data from the encoder and amplifier to be interpolated in a significantly shorter amount of time. Servo HRV4 closes the current loop in 31.25 ?s, the velocity loop at 62.5 ?s and the position loop at 250 ?s. Spindle HRV4 relies on a dedicated spindle processor to achieve a 12khz PWM frequency.

The current and velocity loops of the HRV4 are twice as fast as the industry-leading Servo HRV3, and the position loop is four times as fast. Spindle HRV4 allows for PWM switching, utilizing a lower PWM rate for low-speed torque and then increases the PWM rate up to 12Khz, allowing for higher spindle speeds, tighter control and lower heat losses. In addition, auto-following filters help to eliminate mechanical resonance. The HRV4 is a valuable addition for nano machining with GE Fanuc's highly advanced Series 30i CNC.

About GE Fanuc Automation

GE Fanuc Automation, a joint venture between GE and FANUC LTD of Japan, delivers automation hardware and software designed to help users reduce costs, increase efficiency and enhance profitability. With solutions and services catering to virtually every industrial segment, GE Fanuc Automation provides a diverse array of capabilities and products, including controllers, embedded systems, advanced software, motion control, CNCs, operator interfaces, industrial computers, and lasers. Headquartered in Charlottesville, VA, GE Fanuc Automation is a part of GE Industrial and combines the diverse global strengths of the GE family with the local presence customers need to design, develop and maintain their automation investments.

Advantage 410 CNC combined operator console and matched 4- or 6-axis integrated amplifier/controller is suited for machine tool OEMs and retrofit applications. Modular unit includes 15 in. touchscreen and customizable operator controls. Equipped with mobile operator control pendant, product supports dynamic multi-block segmented look-ahead, forward and inverse kinematics, 5th axis programming capability, and lead screw and backlash compensation.

New Integrated Operator Console/Amplifier is an Easy to Setup, Cost Effective, Open Architecture Solution for Machine Tool OEMs and Retrofit Applications

CHATSWORTH, CA - August 20, 2004- Delta Tau Data Systems Inc., the technology leader in open architecture CNC controls, today announced the Advantage 410, the newest member of its CNC control family. The 410 CNC combined operator console and matched 4 or 6-axis integrated amplifier/controller is specifically designed to meet next generation CNC control requirements.

"We designed the 410 to leverage the capabilities of the PC in the operator control console to bring end users an unprecedented list of peripheral and networking features, usually costing a premium, in an extremely cost-effective package," said Vince Burokas, Product Manager for CNC at Delta Tau Data Systems, Inc. "The digital amplifier and control were integrated into one unit to minimize setup time. This design embraces a modular philosophy allowing an infinite number of machine configurations. The 410 provides OEM's and end users with a long list of features, performance and value."

The feature rich 410 CNC includes a 15-inch touch screen and customizable operator controls for an easy-to-integrate and cost-effective open architecture solution for OEM and retrofit CNC applications. The Advantage 410 CNC supports high-speed machining, dynamic multi-block segmented look-ahead for path fidelity at any speed, forward and inverse kinematics for non-traditional mechanical configurations, 5th axis programming capability, and lead screw and backlash compensation.

The 410 CNC features a mobile operator control pendant with user-definable function keys, an embedded industrial PC, the new user configurable 5.0 HMI NC software, and the NC Autopilot quick setup tool, all in a slim line design with 4 or 6-axis Geo PMAC motion and servo amplifier. Integration and connectivity between the operator console and the smart servo amplifier is simplified by utilizing a single USB2.0 interface cable. With the 410 CNC, the user adds appropriate motors and a minimum amount of field wiring to complete a CNC control system. The user can choose the motors best suited for the application.

The CNC Autopilot setup utility simplifies the machine tool integration process by automatically creating the PLCs for a particular machine. The motors are tuned automatically using the Autotune software feature. The GUI has been designed using the PMAC HMI program. This allows the user to easily customize the GUI interface for their specific application. The PMAC NC 5.0, for Windows software provides interactive part programming or execution of standard G-Code programs.

For Paragon Implant (Calabasas Hills, California), a 50-person dental implants manufacturer, the term "knowledge-based machining" has a special meaning. Although new in business, the team behind the company has been manufacturing dental implants since 1989, when founder Dr. Gerald Niznick started Core-Vent Bio-Engineering to manufacture his patented designs. (The original company was sold in January 2001.) When Dr. Niznick returned to dental implant manufacturing as the founder of Paragon Implant in late 2004, he assembled a veteran team that had worked for him previously and then worked for the company that acquired his prior implant business. The team was also knowledgeable about bottlenecks.

One of the first bottlenecks the Paragon team addressed was the issue of programming. The company started with a supply of 16 CNC Swiss-type lathes to manufacture its dental implants. These included Star CNC SV-12, ECAS-12 and SB-16 models. Additionally, a toolroom is equipped with a five-axis Haas mill and an Emco-Maier turn-mill, among other machines. Dr. Niznick's previous company had a similar mix of equipment, all of which was programmed in a quasi-manual fashion with substantial cutting and pasting.

"Our previous method of programming left room for error to such an extent that you could easily crash the machine," says Bill Aravena, a CNC specialist at Paragon who is responsible for programming the CNC Swiss machines.

To alleviate the programming bottleneck, Paragon turned to SwissCam from PartMaker Software/IMCS Inc. (Fort Washington, Pennsylvania), which the company found to provide a highly-intuitive programming solution for CNC applications.

"Starting out as a new company, we researched various CAM systems for programming," says tooling manager Wayne Smith, who is responsible for programming all of the toolroom machines, in addition to duties such as assisting with the programming of CNC Swiss machines. "Examining Partmaker, we noticed that it had been specifically designed to support Swiss machines."

With the software, programming is now accomplished entirely off-line, with completed programs being sent to the machine. As results, setup time is measurably reduced because it takes little to prove out the program at the machine, according to the company. Prior to implementing the software, the company speculates that more time was spent at the machine writing and editing the program before the first part was made.

"The new software allows me to generate accurate programs the first time, directly from an imported solid model from SolidWorks," says Mr. Aravena.

Though he now does the CNC programming, Mr. Aravena was promoted from the shop floor. At the preceding company, he worked as a setup technician. By using the new system off-line, Mr. Aravena can program the part. He is also able to fully simulate the machining process using the software's 3D machining simulation before transferring the program to the machine.

By programming and proving out parts off-line, Paragon has been able to program and set up faster than before, according to Mr. Aravena. Consequently, setup operators can be more productive by removing the programming burden off of the shop floor.

The software also provides the setup operator with a virtual machine environment in which he/she can prove out part programs before sending them to the shop floor. "With PartMaker, we can see everything ahead of time on the computer," notes Mr. Aravena.

Because the company designs the implants it produces, the manufacturing process must be as flexible as possible in reacting to design modifications made by Dr. Niznick and the engineering department. According the company, the software extends this flexibility to the input of engineering data and the output of G-code programs.

In relation to input, PartMaker integrates with the SolidWorks engineering software used by the design engineering department. The company's programmers can directly import models from SolidWorks. Once the model is imported, the part can be programmed without requiring part modification or recreating part geometry.