Production Module v8.3 Release

Minneapolis, Minn – Third Wave Systems’ newest version of Production Module is available now. While the latest v8.3 will provide several additional features to Production Module users, the major highlights of the release are: 

1. Constant Acceleration and Deceleration Model for Improved Cycle Time and Force Prediction

Milling projects in Production Module now give users the option to use constant acceleration/deceleration model for both rapid and linear feed moves. This feature will enable improved cycle time predictions for our users and will be particularly helpful for high-speed machining applications in soft metals. In addition, users will observe improved force calculation with feed rates adjusted for the machine acceleration/deceleration.

2. Computation Time Speed Ups for Optimization Algorithm

Users will experience, on average, a 23% computation time speed up for the optimization algorithm in Milling projects. These savings are observed for frequently used settings of split lines and arcs. With no split lines and arcs, simultaneous 5-axis parts with small point-to-point moves will not benefit from this speed up. In our benchmarking across hundreds of sequences from various production parts, we found computation time savings of up to 80% in some cases. 

3. Use Instantaneous Tool Deflection Output from PM3D to Address Part Quality Problems

Production Module now provides tool deflection calculation based on linear elastic beam theory. Tool deflection output from Production Module can help in identifying sections of the toolpath that may result in dimensional inaccuracies, surface finish issues on the workpiece, tool wear/breakage and vibration problems. workpiece, tool wear/breakage and vibration problems. This functionality is made available to all users.

4. Voxel Mesh Output for Subsequent Part Quality Analysis

Voxel mesh output is a volume mesh that is useful for performing part quality analysis in a third party FEA software package. The voxel mesh used in conjunction with the force mapping file (*.WPF) for Milling projects allows the user to study workpiece deflection, clamping distortion, optimal fixturing locations, etc. This helps diagnose part quality issues due to sudden changes in force. 

Voxel Mesh and Force Per Degree Output

5. CAM Integration Updates

  • NX – Added support for NX 1899 to NX 1919. In addition, for Turning projects all tracking point configurations are now fully supported.
  • CATIA – Added support for CATIA V5-6R 2020 SP2
  • Mastercam – Added support for Mastercam 2020

 

If you have any questions or are interested in learning more about the new v8.3 features, email us at [email protected]

Get in touch with TWS!