Implementing NX CAM Software

In our last post, we told you about our recent success in delivering a tooling order to a customer in record time. While there are many reasons that we were able to exceed our customer’s expectations, without a doubt the biggest factor was our recent CAD/CAM software upgrade. While the whole process is fairly complicated, we thought we might share some of the developments on the manufacturing side, and demonstrate how they have helped us reduce tooling delivery times.

Commodore’s recent investment in new 3D modeling software from Siemens PLM has been a major step forward for our tooling design department. The implementation of the NX (formerly called UniGraphics) software has delivered increased productivity and accuracy in our tooling design process. Now that we have made our way through the learning curve on the design side, we have begun to realize some benefits on the manufacturing side.

Our CNC programmers have transformed their NC programming and machining processes, reducing waste and increasing productivity. Utilizing feature based machining, NX automatically creates the CNC programs directly from part design models. Process templates and wizards ensure the use of preferred and proven tooling and machining methods. According to our senior programmer, Dave Simmons, “The programming of tool paths to be used on the CNC equipment has become more efficient. We are saving time on programming, and at the machine.”

Another great feature of NX that helps our productivity is machining simulation. Once the program is complete, NX gives us the ability to take it and immediately replay the tool path to simulate material removal. This allows the programmer to verify that the machine tool will be creating the exact part required before the program is actually run. This feature all but eliminates costly damage that can occur when there are errors in the program.

All of these time savings are beneficial in providing thermoformer tooling to our customers at competitive prices, within a very small delivery window.