Advances in modern CAD/CAM software quickly cuts preformed parts on a multi-axis rotary laser saving hours or even days in fixture design and construction, programming, and fine-tuning. A number of 3-D laser software packages generate cutting data for the part’s work-holding fixture, as well as the 3-D part itself. Such software allows fabricators to laser-cut or trim hydro-formed, spun, formed, or stamped parts with little setup or programming time.
Below are 3-D software advances on how to cut preformed parts quickly on a sophisticated multi-axis rotary laser:
Surface data cleanupMost 3-D CAD/CAM software accepts 3-D CAD files and converts them into 3-D part drawings. Surface data on the CAD model must be cleaned up to ensure subsequent seamless cutting simulations and creation of correct NC code for the laser. If the engineer providing the part file does not clean the surface data on the CAD model, the programmer can use the 3-D laser CAD/CAM software to perform the cleanup by deleting extra lines, arcs, or surfaces from the model.
CAD to CAM conversion Some 3-D laser CAD/CAM software can sequence the data, profile the part, and generate an NC code program from a clean surface-model file. Typically, these programs display the part on the bed of the laser cutting machine so the programmer can relocate the part if necessary. The programmer also can add cut paths that were not part of the original part file to, for example, trim extra material or add cut holes.
Work envelope checkOnce the CAM information is entered, the programmer makes the software perform a number of checks. One quick check of the X, Y, and Z axes ensures that the part fits within the laser’s work envelope. If it doesn’t fit, the programmer can raise or lower the part.
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