In CAM software choosing NURBS to create surface is considered to be good method for presenting surface as it is accepted by both IGES and STEP files of CAM software. Selection of proper topology result in minimum path length. Scallop height tolerance help us in measuring the quality of free-form surface. It also causes damage to part,s surface and machine tool. Gouging are the main reason for discrepancies of surface accuracy and texture specification. Efficiency of surface machined is also considered by maximum scallop height and by gouging. The optimization can be done for minimum machining time, minimum tool travel, minimum production cost or for good surface finish. Different optimization method can be used considering process parameters like feed rate, spindle speed, steps, tool diameter, magnitude and preset maximum force. By minimizing the forces we can increase tool life. These causes risk of tool damage, tool deflection and errors on surface finish. Optimization of free-form surface machining ĬAM software generally creates a tool path without considering any mechanics process.
Free-form surfaces are machined with the help of different tool path generation method like adaptive iso-planar tool path generation, constant scallop tool path generation, adaptive iso-parametric method, iso-curvature, isophote and by other methods. The geometry can also be not described explicitly so errors and discontinuities occurrence in the solid structure cannot be avoided.
The manufacturing process of free form surface is not an easy job as the tool path generation in present CAM technology is generally based on geometric computation so tool path are not optimum. Generally 3 or 5 axis CNC milling machine is used for this purpose. The industries which most often manufactures free-form surfaces are basically aerospace, automotive, die mold industries, bio medical and power sector for turbine blades manufacturing. This makes it a great tool for engineering students and prototype production designs.Freeform surface or complex surfaces are widely manufactured nowadays. CAMWorks is a next generation best-in-class CNC programming solution that enables users to program smarter and machine faster. FreeMill features three axis milling technology, perfect cutting complex 3D objects.įreeMill also includes tool path and cut material simulation, allowing you to visualize the entire milling process before machining. CAMWorks with Machining Intelligence is the most advanced CAM programming software available for getting products to market faster, more efficiently and within budget.
Other features include the ability to zero out at any point on the part or stock, support for end mills, ball mills and corner radius mill. You can mill multiple cutting directions in a single tool path while controlling stepover and stepdown distances.
FreeMILL comes with a demo version, manual, and several instructional videos on how to use the software.įreeMill supports both rough milling in multiple z level cuts and finish milling on complex 3D objects. FreeMill is perfectly suited for handling simple milling jobs and is also a good way to learn about CAM software. The FreeMill browser quickly and easily guides you through the milling process, making it an excellent tool for small firms, engineers, and students. It can be easily installed on any computer that is running SOLIDWORKS version 2010 and higher and supports all standard milling machines and milling machine routers. FreeMill is Free and Powerful CAM Software!įreeMill is a completely free milling program that runs inside of SOLIDWORKS.