Software

Geomagic, a provider of 3D software for creating and inspecting digital models of physical objects, has launched some new products for 2012 for reverse engineering and inspection. The release in November of the company's 3D imaging products includes Geomagic Studio 2012, Geomagic Wrap 2012, Geomagic Qualify 2012, Geomagic Qualify Probe and Geomagic Wrap OEM Edition.

By calculating multiple consecutive production cycles and taking into account the thermal interactions throughout all the components in the mold, Sigmasoft's "multi-cycle analysis" boosts the accuracy of an injection molding simulation.

Processing problems are best solved before parts are molded. Now, with the help of the interface SigmaLink, weld lines can be predicted and mapped into FEA software with the injection molding simulation software SigmaSoft, and taken into consideration in the structural design of injection molded parts.

aPriori cost-modeling software has upgraded its capabilities to generate highly detailed tooling cost estimates for components. Rick Burke, aPriori's VP of marketing, told PlasticsToday that the program's ultimate goal is to help OEMs and suppliers, including injection molding and moldmaking companies, "understand the costs of manufacture." A simple concept with powerful prospects for companies wrangling over the true costs of a component with their customers.

Plastics industry training provider A. Routsis Associates, Inc. (Dracut, MA) now offers an online course on geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T). The series comprises four modules: Basic Principles, Interpreting GD&T Symbols, Form and Orientation Tolerances, and Profile, Runout & Location Tolerances.

This series builds the ability to read and interpret GD&T symbols. Understanding the international engineering language of GD&T is essential for communicating in the global marketplace.

Kubotek USA (Malborough, MA) has officially released its latest iteration of 3D Direct CAD software: KeyCreator 2011; supporting 64-bit architecture, new and improved dynamic editing, and a fully re-engineered IGES translator that imports files more quickly and accurately than previous KeyCreator versions, as well as in comparison to a widely used history-based modeling programs.

Cognex Corporation (Natick, MA) has launched VisionPro 7.0 machine vision software incorporating Inspection Designer, a new concept to simplify development and field maintenance of inspection applications.

Plastics-specific training provider A. Routsis Assoc. (Dracut, MA) has released a new online training course titled "Establishing a Scientific Molding Process." 

Delcam (Birmingham, UK) has released the 2011 version of its PowerMILL CAM system for five-axis and high-speed machining. The latest release makes the programming of safe toolpaths easier than ever thanks to new stock-model-engagement options that protect both the cutting tool and the machine from excessive loading.

Mastercam X5 Mill offers expanded machining flexibility and an increased emphasis on speed and automation according to vendor CNC Software, Inc. (Tolland, CT). Smart Hybrid Finishing, new dynamic milling techniques, and ISCAR support combine with dozens of additional new enhancements in a package intended to improve tool shop-floor productivity.