Here is what the MWP Awards judges had to say about Vericut 6...
'In a world of increasing complexity it enables users to work in a virtual world, knowing that when it transfers this into reality it will do exactly what you expect'
Vericut allows the CNC programmer to simulate, verify and optimise CNC programs in a virtual reality environment. During simulation an accurate in-process model is created which can be measured, inspected and even compared with a design model to detect over or under cutting. Feed rate optimisation is also available, allowing for feed rates to be adjusted dependent on the precise cutting conditions. Vericut can be used standalone or integrated with all the leading CAM systems including Catia, Siemens NX, PTC, Delcam PowerMILL, Open Mind HyperMill, EdgeCAM, MasterCAM and GibbsCAM.
CG Tech developers harnessed the ever-increasing power of computers to revolutionise the way users of complex machine tools program and verify CNC programs; Vericut was already the benchmark application for CNC simulation and verification. The company has now taken proven technology and made it an ideal fit for the new generation of multi-function, multi-axis machine tools. Version 6 of Vericut has extended the product's capability to include the simulation and verification of multiple set-ups on either the same or different machine tools; so it is now possible to simulate a first operation, perhaps on a machining centre, creating an accurate in-process cut model. Then, it is possible to re-orientate this model, either on the same or a different machine tool, and use this as the stock model for a second operation.
Vericut 6 makes a significant contribution to increased productivity by eliminating the need for shop-floor prove-out of CNC programs; simulation and collision detection become office-based activities using virtual reality in a really practical way. The Optipath feed rate optimisation facility helps reduce CNC cycle times by as much as 50% in some cases, smooths the cutting process, extends cutting tool life and reduces wear and tear on the machine tool - and the need for maintenance. The virtual machining environment enables programmers to experiment with different CNC strategies and even compare machining times for alternative methods.
By allowing programmers to detect collisions - ie in the programming office before the program reaches the shop floor, the risk of machine tool crashes is greatly reduced. This also contributes to a safer working environment for programmers by removing the need for on-machine prove-out. Users comment on high spindle utilisation, confidence in their ability to get things 'right first time', and implications for lights-out machining.
The MWP Awards were devised 25 years ago as a way of recognising outstanding achievement in manufacturing technology. They took place this year on Tuesday 22nd April at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole Hotel, in England.
