CNC Machine Simulation Software Supports 3D Interface to Verify, Simulate and Optimize NC Programs

CGTech has announced that its Vericut software for CNC machine simulations can now read in Geometry Description Markup Language (GDML) files with a new 3DLive Interface. GDML is an application-independent geometry description format based on XML.

3DLive is available in MachiningCloud for products that require kinematics such as machine tools and workholding devices. MachiningCloud has traditionally been known for the ability to provide 3D models of cutting tools for use in Vericut and other related CAD/CAM and simulation software. DMG MORI, Haas Automation, Mazak Corp., Kennametal and KURT Workholding are said to be among the first to supply GDML machine tool, driven turret units and fixture models to MachiningCloud.

CGTech believes that Verticut is the first software of its kind to support the import of 3DLive files for use in verifying, simulating and optimizing NC programs. This enhancement provides Vericut users the ability to read in 3DLive data for CNC machines, workholding fixtures and cutting tool holders for use in simulations. This eliminates having to measure and model the components by traditional means or request 3D models from the machine tool builder.

3DLive catalog in MachiningCloud currently contains more than 8,700 products. 3DLive files contain kinematics, travel limits, minimum and maximum feed rates, initial machine location and 3D geometry colors in a single file format. CGTech says this data can be read into Vericut in seconds. Further, 3DLive fixtures can be used to exactly represent the workholding setup in a Vericut simulation. These fixture models sometimes contain axis movement (i.e., vise models that open/close). Additionally, 3DLive tool assembly holders can be read into Vericut’s Tool Manager.