New ESPRIT EDGE adds Swiss machine support and AI tools like Copilot and ProPlanAI to accelerate time-to-market.
Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence Division has released an updated version of its ESPRIT EDGE CAM software. The release introduces expanded support for Swiss-type machining and integrates AI services through Hexagon’s cloud-based Nexus platform, aimed at improving usability and addressing productivity and workforce challenges.
This new release adds advanced capabilities for Swiss machining and artificial intelligence (AI), helping manufacturers manage programming complexity, address workforce challenges, and improve efficiency in high-precision production environments.
Democratizing swiss machining functionality
ESPRIT EDGE now includes Swiss machining capabilities, supporting programming for machines such as CITIZEN L-series and STAR SR-Series. The software uses a digital twin to replicate the machine’s behavior, enabling features like superimposition, composite axis control, and automatic prepositioning to help improve programming accuracy and reduce the risk of collisions.
With tools for configuring collets, guide bushings, and tool mounting blocks, ESPRIT EGDE reduces user expertise requirements whilst making set-up faster and more consistent. Features such as automatic synchronization, adaptive cycles and tilted plane rotation simplify programming for multi-channel operations, minimizing manual coding and errors.
Real-time simulation ensures safe and highly accurate, optimized machining, while high-quality, OEM-tailored G-code eliminates post-processor customization.
These advanced and extremely versatile capabilities mean ESPRIT EDGE successfully addresses the challenges of Swiss machining, including complex kinematics, limited CAM support, and the imposition of steep learning curves for machinists, making it easier for shops to adopt high-precision technology.
AI-powered automation tools
Leveraging AI to transform CAM programming with two innovative tools, ESPRIT EDGE empowers manufacturers to automate repetitive tasks, reduce errors, and improve overall efficiency, enabling faster time-to-market for their products.
Firstly, Hexagon Copilot, an AI-driven virtual assistant, provides 24/7 support for CAM programmers of all skill levels. With natural language processing, it offers tailored responses, expert guidance, and seamless integration into the software’s interface.
Secondly, ProPlanAI streamlines process planning and accelerates production. It is a self-learning automation tool that uses historical machining data to predict and optimize processes for new parts, minimizing manual intervention.
Overcoming the skills gap with AI and knowledge capture
With the skills gap impacting the manufacturing industry on a global scale, ESPRIT EDGE utilizes AI-driven solutions to bridge this gap, making CAM programming accessible to users of all experience levels.
Hexagon Copilot and ProPlanAI are designed to support knowledge retention and sharing by capturing and applying organizational experience, helping preserve expertise as employees retire or transition out of the company.
Using these capabilities, new programmers quickly become productive by relying on intuitive AI tools, reducing the training time and resources they need to become proficient. These innovations enable manufacturers to standardize processes, reduce workflow disruptions, and maintain consistent quality across their operations.
ESPRIT 2000 and ESPRIT EDGE customers can upgrade to ESPRIT EDGE 2025.2 to access the latest desktop software capabilities and access ProPlanAI via Nexus.
For more information, visit hexagon.com.
