OptiPath - Module
VERICUT calculates the ideal optimized feed rate for each individual program block, and generates a new, faster & more efficient NC program.
Knowledge-Based Machining
VERICUT is an adaptive knowledge-based system. During the simulation process, it learns the exact depth, width, and angle of each cut and knows exactly how much material is removed by each cut segment. With that knowledge OptiPath® can divide the movement into smaller segments. Where necessary, based on the amount of material removed in each segment, it assigns the best feedrate for each cutting condition encountered. It then outputs a new tool path, identical to the original but with improved feed rates. It does not alter the trajectory.
4½ hours of programmer time spent on optimization saved us $75,000!
- Brian Carlsonn Programming Manager, Aerospace Dynamics, International
Simple Setup and Use
A setup wizard prompts you to enter the cutter settings for individual tools during the simulation. = All the settings for that cutter are stored in an optimization library and you define the settings only once per tool. Every time you use that cutter the results can be instantly optimized! OptiPath also features a learn mode for creating the optimization library with no setup required. For each tool, OptiPath automatically calculates the maximum volume removal rate and chip thickness and uses them to determine the optimization settings for the tool.
Faster machining – Improved surface – Extended tool life
How it Works…
VERICUT’s OptiPath Optimization Module automatically adjusts the feed according to cutting conditions and current material removal, reducing machining time, resulting in longer tool life and improved surface quality.
Could You Benefit from OptiPath? Do any of the following sound familiar? If so, OptiPath can help!
- High material removal
- Long processing times
- Large NC programs
- Interrupted cuts
- Different cutting depths / widths
- High-speed machining
- Thin wall machining
- Delicate tools and materials
- Expensive tools and materials
- Hard and soft materials
- Older equipment
- Multiple workpieces
- Premature tool wear or tool breakage
- Improvised program optimization
- Program changes for individual feeds / speeds or waiver due to lack of time
- Lack of capacity or knowledge in CAD systems and / or programmers
- Resident expert retiring/leaving
- Poor surface quality
- Long training times
- Problems with constant chip strength
- Cutter deflection problems
- Chatter marks in corners
- No or little material removal with slow or programmed feed
More on Optipath
OptiPath® reads the NC tool path file and divides it into a number of smaller segments. Where necessary, based on the amount of material removed in each segment, it assigns the best feedrate for each cutting condition encountered. It then outputs a new tool path, identical to the original but with improved feedrates. It does not age the trajectory.
You input ideal feedrate for a number of predetermined machining conditions. OptiPath automatically combines them with factors such as machine tool capacity (horse power, spindle type, rapid traverse speed, coolant, etc.); fixture and clamp rigidity; and cutting tool type (material, design, number of teeth, length, etc.), to determine the optimal feedrate for each segment of each cut. OptiPath also considers factors dependent on the nature of the tool path search as:
- Cut depth
- Volume removal rate
- Entry feed rate
- Cut width
- Cutter wear
- Cut angle
This solution is automatic and determines the best feedrates before the program is loaded on the machine. It also uses the expertise of the NC programmer and is able to determine the best feedrates for specific cutting conditions.
- The source of the article is on the website of CGTech.co.uk