Third Wave Systems’ Production Module version 5.8 process-analysis CAE software integrates workpiece material properties, CAD/CAM inputs and machine dynamics to map forces, temperatures and more. The technology reduces cycle times and tool breakage while maximizing machine utilization, the company says. Visually displaying results enables users to better understand the machining process so they can avoid potential problems and identify opportunities for improvements.
The multi-constraint optimization feature consolidates minimum and maximum optimization limits into one value and introduces an optimization constraint. This secondary input enables users to define another variable and limit not to be exceeded during optimization. These two force checks, combined with preexisting feed-rate constraints, are said to provide a more complete optimization solution.
Selective force computation enables users to select which results they want to compute. Calculating only pertinent results increases graph display speed and decreases the amount of memory required.
Additional features include an air-cut optimization safety check to ensure that cutting tools are a safe distance from the workpiece. Also, performance speedups enable faster results and make the software quicker to navigate, the company says. Speedups of as much as 2× have been achieved for force computation, graph displays and workpiece loading.