vector Cutting/Laser/Plasma/Water Jet

The Cutting module of vector CAD/CAM can be used for all flat processes such as Lasercutting, Water Jet machining and Plasma cutting. A new technology combines laser and rectangular tubing.

Geometries of components and contours are prepared in vector CAD. The approach and departures of inner and outer contours are automatically generated. The reorganize feature removes double elements and replaces them with single new lines and arcs. Gaps are closed and ragged straight segments can be substituted by smooth arcs. A grouping feature can create repeat patterns using border and margin settings as well as spacing between groups of components.

vector is also used for engraving with laser. Graphic images as well as all available True Type (Microsoft compatible) fonts. These consist of thousands of little line segments. Vector reduces this to only a few smooth curves. These are then machined using the CAM module of vector. Images imported from other graphic software such as Corel Draw or Adobe can be converted to machining data.

A special postprocessor allows machining data to output rotational moves for laser cutting on tubes and rectangular profiles.

Calculation of machine time

vector will calculate machine time even before nc-programs are necessary. Using the feed rate for input the system instantly calculates machining paths and submits the resulting machine time.

Convert programs to geometry

The backplot feature will convert any old cnc text code back to geometrical shapes, including lines, rapid moves and arcs. This way old programs can be re-generated for new machines. But also old contours can be edited. The operator of vector CAD can then dimension his project and subject the old shapes to new changes.

Simulation

The simulation module shows the product manufacture in 3D using tool and offset definitions.

Postprocessor

Postprocessors are included or available free of charge for almost all existing NC/CNC-controls. Changes can easily be made by the user and new machines can be configured within minutes.

NC-Editor

An integrated Editor was developed specially for CNC programs. Find and replace, cut and paste are the standard features. Specific functions enhance efficiency such as renumbering, and color coding showing rapid moves and plunges in red and other text such as tools in a color. Also sending and receiving programs to and from the machines is included.

Size and font of the text can be selected and these settings will be remembered for each user. Below is an example of color coding.

Manage complex machining sequences

In order to fully automate complex machining tasks vector uses group and name technology in both the CAD and CAM modules. In this way for example points named Peck Drilling in the drawing will automatically be subjected to drilling commands in the CAM module.

Last update: 3.9.2010 9:16:8