Production Module 6.0 Introduced November 2011
Release is Third Wave Systems' Largest Software Release in Years
Minneapolis, MN USA
December 5, 2011
Production Module 6.0, Third Wave Systems’ most ambitious software update in years, was officially released on November 21, 2011. Many of the capabilities introduced in version 6.0 had been in development for several years, managed by a team of mechanical engineering experts who worked closely with commercial customers and internal product quality engineers to produce a more comprehensive machining simulation software product for its worldwide customer base.
Production Module is NC program optimization software that integrates physics-based workpiece material models, cutting tool geometries, CAD/CAM inputs, and machine dynamics to predict and display machining performance indicators not attainable from trial-and-error testing. By plotting factors such as force, temperature, and spindle power along the entire toolpath, Production Module enhances engineering expertise while helping companies identify processes that machine dramatically faster and promote improved tool life and part quality.
The most highly anticipated of Production Module 6.0’s new capabilities was an upgrade that simulates tool deflection and part distortion as a result of machining, enabling component manufacturers to proactively identify machining parameters that deliver optimal part quality (shown at right). The upgrade offers a drastic departure from the current practices for managing part distortion, and presents an immediate business case for companies looking to innovate with minimal risk to their bottom lines.
In addition to a distortion and tool deflection modeling functionality upgrade, Production Module 6.0 includes the following new and/or enhanced capabilities:
- Subprogram optimization – enables the optimization of previously-unalterable toolpaths (3D)
- Optimization post-processing preferences – gives users the option to revise toolpath formats and reduce file sizes (2D and 3D)
- Air-cut clearance distance – promotes safer optimizations and increases cycle time savings (2D)
- ESPRIT® interface – allows users to import tool geometries and toolpaths directly from ESPRIT into Production Module (optional 3D upgrade)
- Workpiece cutoff – eliminates several previously-needed manual workarounds and multiple project setups (2D)
- Optimization cycle time savings predictor – assists users in setting optimal optimization settings in significantly less time (3D)
- Toolpath variables – increase toolpath interpretation capabilities for expanded applications (3D)
- Optimization settings – enable user to easily replicate or modify optimization using import/export settings (2D)
A webinar to review all new software capabilities has been scheduled for Wednesday, December 14, 2011. All current Production Module users received personal invitations with their updated license information.
