EnginSoft is pleased to announce the release of an updated version of Third Wave Systems NC program optimization software, AdvantEdge Production Module 5.8. Production Module is process-analysis CAE software that integrates workpiece material properties, CAD/CAM inputs, and machine dynamics to map forces, temperatures, and more. Over the years, this technology has become integral to engineers looking to reduce costs and cycle times, maximize machine utilization, and reduce tool breakage. By displaying results visually, Production Module allows users to better understand the machining process to avoid potential problems and identify opportunities for improvements.

Production Module 5.8 3D will be packed with more new features than usual for TWS, as the company has focused on the software’s ease of use and automated functionality:

Production Module 5.7 introduces many new and/or enhanced features in both its 2D and 3D editions, including:

• With the new MULTI-CONSTRAINT OPTIMIZATION feature, minimum and maximum optimization limits are consolidated into one value and a new optimization constraint is introduced.  This secondary input allows users to define another variable and limit not to be exceeded during optimization.  These two force checks, combined with preexisting feed rate constraints, will provide a more complete optimization solution.
• SELECTIVE FORCE COMPUTATION allows user to select which results they want to compute. Calculating only the results which are of interest increases graph display speed and decreases the amount of memory required.
• A new AIR-CUT OPTIMIZATION safety check ensures that cutting tools are a safe distance from the workpiece, providing a safer air-cut optimization.
• PERFORMANCE SPEEDUPS mean the software delivers results faster and makes the software quicker to navigate. Speedups of up to 2x have been achieved for force computation, graph displays, and workpiece loading.

Significant efforts were also dedicated to better align the 2D Production Module user experience with that of Production Module 3D. Current PM3D users may recognize several features that will now be integrated with PM2D, including:

• COMPARISON GRAPH – a second graph to better analyze multiple results at the same time.
• NAVIGATOR – allowing users to easily review and navigate the toolpath.
• ARCHIVING – automatically zips the key input files needed for setup, providing easy storage of the projects for future use.
• MACHINE FILE SETUP – enabling all changes to machine parameter and transient files to be made within the Production Module 2D user interface.

Benefits to using the software include:

• Reduced cycle times
• Maximized machine utilization
• Improved tool life
• Increased productivity