Top 5 Upgrades in Surfcam 2017 R2

Dynamic insert positioning and anew turning cycle are among thefeatures added to Surfcam.

Surfcam 2017 R2 is out, so let’s go over the most interesting and useful new features.

First up, a new turning cycle that provides access to B-axis movements.

When machining complex profiles, a new Surfcam feature positions the insert in a way that affords smoother access to the material that is being machined on a turning center. (Image courtesy of Vero Software.)

When machining complex profiles, a new Surfcam feature positions the insert in a way that affords smoother access to the material that is being machined on a turning center. (Image courtesy of Vero Software.)

This new feature is available for roughing, finishing and other operations with any kind of turning tool. There area total of 20 new features, but here are some of the most interesting ones.

Better Surfcam Fixture Database

Measuring fixtures and workholding devices enables users to access the precise detail of a component’s geometry. Additionally, it clarifies the relationship between the fixture, its components, any material stock and any workholding devices—giving users a clearer understanding of how everything fits together.

Updated Cycle Dialogs

Surfcam updates cycle dialogs with informative pictures and help that are designed for both advanced users to interpret obscure commands and for novices to provide explanations of core functionalities.Project flow curves, slot milling and project circular pattern cycles now include updated cycle dialogs.

Machine Code Macros Created in Surfcam’s Post-Processor

As the need for CAM programmers to engage in offline inspection and probing continues to increase, software engineers like those who program Surfcam updates, must respond to their userbase.

In direct response to this growing need, Surfcam 2017 R2 has been designed to include a set of simple commands for users to create inspection features and convert them into a toolpath and simulate them. The machine code macros are created in Surfcam’s post-processor during the conversion process.

Machine Simulator Enhancements

The machine simulator provides users with the option of selecting a target component during View Comparison, and is now further improved by enabling users to pick “All components.” This can be helpful for work on multi-loaded fixtures that have many different parts.

Users can now rewind toolpaths upon leaving the machine simulator by holding down the Shiftkey.

And those are the top five features of Surfcam 2017 R2. For more information, click here.