Creaform releases VXelements 11 scanning software

Creaformhas launched VXelements 11, which the company describes as an upgrade with an impressive array of new features and increased performance levels.The biggest change in VXelements 11 involves VXinspect, VXelements’ dimensional inspection module. VXinspect has been segmented into two distinct modules: VXinspecAnalysis and VXinspectQuality Control. Creaform says it has completely rethought and optimised both based on two distinguished phases of the manufacturing quality control process: VXinspect Analysis is an intuitive and user-friendly inspection software that streamlines designs and manufacturing dimensional root cause analyses, whileVXinspecQuality Control is a complete 3D inspection software for advanced quality control applications in subsequent production phases.

VXelements’ scan-to-CAD module for reverse engineering and additive manufacturing workflows, VXmodel, is now compatible with Fusion 360, acloud-based CAD software for product design and development. Fusion 360 has become part of the line-up of seamless integrations with other CAD solutions, including SolidWorks, Inventor and Solid Edge. Users can transfer CAD files directly from VXmodel to Fusion 360 for easier reverse engineering processes.

With the goal of improving flexibility and simplicity, Creaform has extended interoperability between VXscan-R, its digital twin environment software module,and new robot brands and models such as UR10, and FANUC CRX-25i and M-10iD/8L. VXscan-R also enables users to record trajectories directly from teach pendants with some collaborative robots.

In preparation for the new release, Creaform carried out extensive usability and ergonomics improvements to VXelements’ application modules, making the platform more intuitive to enhance the user experience by operators of all skill levels.
For further information www.creaform3d.com

Mastercam acquires post-processor developer

Sandvik has acquired Canadian company, Postability,a bespoke software development firm developing NC post processors that will become part of Mastercam. The company launched in 2008 to focus exclusively on Mastercam post-processor services through partnership with North American and international reseller channels. Postability’s team largely comprises mechanical and mechatronics engineering graduates who work tirelessly to provide client with top levels of support and customer service.

“The addition of Postability’s post-processing technology makes industry-preferred solutions more accessible to Mastercam users around the world,” says Mastercam president and CEO Meghan West. “This acquisition enables us to support our customers by integrating best-in-class post-processing technology along with improved responsiveness and technical support.”

The purchase adds talent, technology and diversity to Mastercam’s ecosystem of solutions. Mastercam says that Postability’s solutions and support are best-in-class and will now be accessible globally through itsreseller channel. With the addition of Postability, Mastercam users will have the opportunity to acquire a broader range of post-processing technology with excellent support and responsiveness.

Jodi Spall, owner of Postability, states: “We are very excited to sign this agreement of acquisition with Mastercam and Sandvik. Joining the Mastercam team will enable us to bring our technology to more Mastercam users around the world.”

Mastercam has no plans to change relationships with any external vendors, customers or support solutions as a result of this purchase. The company says it continues to shape the future of manufacturing, and is committed to expanding the tools available in the Mastercam ecosystem through organic growth and acquisitions.
For further information www.mastercam.com

Okuma launching next-generation control at EMO

Okuma is launching a new CNC system, the OSP-P500, on stand B36 in hall 15 at the EMO exhibition in Hanoverthis week (18-23 September). The smart machine control, which Okuma manufactures in-house, combines productive and precise machining with ease-of-use, energy efficiency and safety features to protect against cyberattacks.

Initially, five-axis machining centres in Okuma’s MU-V series and the Multus series of multi-tasking turn-milling machines will feature the new control. NCMT, the sales agent for Okuma in the UK and Ireland, advises that this latest CNC system has twice the computing power of conventional machine controls, shortening cycle times by up to 15%. It is particularly well suited to high-speed machining applications that demand top-quality surface finishes.

Notably, the control features an on-machine digital twin to facilitate the high-precision simulation of machining processes, reducing set-up times and speeding production. By performing these simulations on the machine itself, production can start immediately afterwards. Alternatively, with the digital twin on a PC, it is possible to perform simulation offline while production is in progress on the machine.

Even inexperienced users benefit from the advantages of the control due to its user-friendly interface. A ‘Smart OSP Operation’ function simplifies programming on the shop floor by providing automatic guidance through all the necessary steps. People without any prior experience can learn how to machine a component in one day, reports Okuma.

Featuring a comprehensive security system, the control protects machine processes, programs and data from cyberattacks. Advanced identification of users and encryption of communication according to the OPC-UA standard prevents unauthorised access.

Thanks to the integration of Eco Suite Plus, the OSP-P500 also reduces power consumption. Smart features record and analyse every operating status as well as CO₂ emissions.
For further information www.ncmt.co.uk

Ward CNC welcomes partner innovations

UK machine tool supplier Ward CNC is supporting principal partners such as Soraluce (hall 13, stand B30) and Takisawa (hall 17, stand B22) at EMO. As an expert in milling and boring, Soraluce is bringingits automated solutions to the table, with a particular focus on the company’snew ‘Performance Line’ and a new generation of heads. Turning machine specialist Takisawa Japan is using the show to release its new ‘green machinery’, while new models from Takisawa Taiwan include the latestNX-2000economic two-spindle turning centre.

Ward CNC is also announcing new partnerships with Gurutzpe (hall 13, stand B25), a Spanish company that designs and manufactures CNC multi-tasking lathes, and Ronchini Massimo (hall 12, stand A12), an Italian company that produces high-end CNC milling routers for the metalworking industry. “The added value that these companies bring will complement our existing array of machine tools to provide even more choice for customers,” states Ward CNC managing director Simon Whitworth.
For further information www.wardcnc.com

Titanium machining

Starrag (hall 12, stand B50) says it is revolutionising titanium machining performances with its new ultra-rigid and robust STC 1250 HD horizontal machining centre, the first machine in its large-capacity class with hydrostatic guideways for zero friction/non-stick/slip movements. The machine – one of the highlights of Starrag’s EMO stand – reduces roughing times by up to 50% and decreases overall machining times by up to 30%. It also reduces energy consumption during machining by 33%, and offers more dynamic finishing and therefore more precise parts courtesy of higher acceleration and jerk rates.
For further information www.starrag.com