At IMTS in Chicago last week, Anca Motion launched its LinX M-Series linear motor automation solution for OEMs. The LinX M is housed in a slim body, and is said to be a highly energy-efficient solution for precision CNC applications or high-speed automation systems.

Anca Motion also revealed its Single Cable Motion System that adopts Hiperface DSL protocol technology by using a single cable to simplify machine integration, reduce waste and offer improved diagnostics.
Naveen Nadesan, Anca Motion marketing manager, says: “There is a clear trend for companies to use energy in a more efficient manner. Replacing a pneumatic cylinder with a tubular linear motor reduces energy costs, achieving a relatively short payback period of six to 12 months. The LinX M-Series linear motor therefore provides a unique benefit to OEMs seeking higher performance, accuracy and reliability in their machines.”
At the show, two LinX motors were displayed in a V-structure parallel robot (V-Bot) arrangement showcasing: a high-speed pick and place application; and high-precision contouring around various shapes. The LinX M-Series is fully compatible with standard pneumatics accessories, such as mounting plates, linear guides and couplings.
“Anca Motion offers a wide range of control systems and has more recently been working largely with laser cutting businesses, providing a complete motor solution for its machines,” says Nadesan. “At the stand we had interactive display panels and videos of laser and cylindrical grinding applications to demonstrate the breadth of our technology.”
The LinX M-series V-Bot demo unit will also make an appearance at the MWCS exhibition in Shanghai this week.
For further information www.ancamotion.com

CGTech has announced the latest release of Vericut CNC simulation software, Version 8.2. With input from thousands of users worldwide, the focus of the latest iteration has been to provide features that improve simulation visibility, speed workflow, and streamline each user’s verification process.

Among the major upgrades are those relating to the user interface, force turning and additive manufacturing modules, to list but a few.
A modernised user interface now uses a right-mouse-button ribbon to put favourite Vericut functions just a click away, and provide convenient access to external applications that programmers find useful. The configurable head-up display (HUD) improves simulation monitoring and visibility by showing the NC program, or machining and cutting status information, overlaid on top of Vericut’s graphical views. HUD provides constant access to important details about the machining process, while keeping simulation views as large as possible for optimal viewing. Furthermore, NC program alert symbols and colours highlight errors and warnings found in NC programs, making it faster and easier to identify problem sources.
An additional enhancement relates to ‘Force’ a physics-based NC program optimisation module that CGTech says analyses and improves cutting conditions to achieve ideal chip thicknesses, while managing the cutting forces and spindle power required. Vericut 8.2 introduces ‘Force Turning’ to optimise lathe turning, and mill-turn operations, when combined with Force Milling. According to CGTech, Force Turning makes it easy to create NC programs for the optimal cutting of inside/outside diameters, shoulders, and in corners and tight spaces – without the worry of encountering excessive cutting forces or high spindle power demands.
For further information www.cgtech.com

CNC Software Inc, developer of Mastercam CADCAM software, has announced the release of Mastercam 2019.

In terms of CNC programming, the latest edition of the software sees a series of automated 2D through five-axis tool-path improvements. Furthermore, re-engineered chamfering and hole-making strategies, plus new multi-axis deburring functionality provide new levels of time-saving automation and simplicity, says the company.
New milling tool-path strategies, like the high-speed equal scallop tool path, offer both machining and surface finish improvements. The new release also includes additional support for Sandvik Coromant PrimeTurning methodology, enhanced grooving and other features for turning and mill-turn applications, plus new lathe and Swiss-style machine support.
Mastercam 2019 increases efficiency and reduces the job set-up time and preparation needed for part machining and programming. This includes enhanced CAD functionality and 3D model import support, improved part preparation and fixture set-up tools, additional PowerSurface capabilities, and expanded support for model-based definition (MBD).
In addition, the software’s expanded digital tool library capability delivers accurate, 3D tool assembly models, with access to the latest cutting tool technology and updates for the Sandvik Coromant CoroPlus and MachiningCloud platforms. Mastercam 2019 also expands its ‘Accelerated Finishing’ functionality with support for taper and lens-style tools aimed at 75% cycle time improvements for finishing operations with superior surface finish quality.
With enhancements to tool-path and machine simulation, tool-path graphics, and other verification and analysis tools, Mastercam 2019 allows for better, more informed decisions before a job is run. These improvements include support for the block drilling of multiple holes simultaneously and better axis control in simulation, allowing users to easily check machine limits or for potential collisions.
For further information www.mastercam.com