MachineWorks updates CAM-CNC simulation software

Raytracing technology reveals surface details formerly lost during simulation viewing.

CNC and CAM simulation specialist MachineWorks has updated its software with hybrid machine simulation, new technology for surfacing, and improved accuracy for visual representation. MachineWorks Software says more than 60% of CAM developers have integrated MachineWorks technology into their applications over the years.

The updates in MachineWorks version 7.4 allow it to be used with the latest advanced 5-axis milling solutions, providing precision cutting and collision detection technology, including the new generation of combination additive/subtractive CAM systems.

**The update to MachineWorks Simulation allows for full simulation of hybrid manufacturing processes. (Source: MachineWorks)**

The ability to simulate both additive and subtractive manufacturing in a single environment is a key aspect of this update. MachineWorks says the demand for additive simulation is skyrocketing; “with more and more hybrid CNC machines being brought to market, MachineWorks is offering the software needed to simulate the material deposition as well,” says the company in a prepared statement.

**A new algorithm improves 5-axis swept volume generation (Source: MachineWorks)**

In practice, Boolean operations to calculate material removal work in reverse to add material, whether it is layer-by-layer addition or cutting material on the same stock. Multiple API’s allow user flexibility to respond to their unique CAM needs.

MachineWorks version 7.4 also provides improved finished surface quality from a new algorithm for 5-axis swept volume generation. The company says the new 5-axis swept volume method “allows more flexible quality optimization, which further enhances the finished surface accuracy and performance in terms of CPU time and number of faces of the stock after simulation.”

**MachineWorks Simulation uses raytracing technology to improve surface detail during zoom in. (Source: MachineWorks)**

A new sampling engine in MachineWorks uses raytracing technology to provide greater accuracy of graphical representation throughout the simulation. The improved sampling engine manages to retain detail even when zoomed in. The enhanced ray-traced image contains surface details that would normally be lost when using a sampling technology.