OPEN MIND Launches Much Awaited hyperMILL 2012

10 August 2012

OPEN MIND Technologies has now launched its new version of its hyperMILL® CAM solution. Highlights of the 2012 version include automatic programming options for rectangular pockets, optimisations for 3D roughing and new strategies for 5axis machining of impellers and blisks whilst other additions improve calculation and programming times.

With hyperMILL 2012 the new 'adaptive pocket' machining mode allows for automatic programming of rectangular pockets, so when machining a job, classification occurs automatically in closed and open pockets and rectangular levels. According to the various accessibility conditions for the tool and relative sizes of the tool and pocket, hyperMILL® automatically selects the most suitable machining method, whether it is spiral, contour-parallel or peeling.

The optimised clearing movements take place in long, straight paths with constant cutting conditions. Critical full cutting areas are parameterised separately, allowing control over feedrate values and reduced production times.

Time-saving 5-axis strategies
The ways in which machining times have been shortened by hyperMILL 2012 are both simple and ingenious. During 5-axis shape offset machining with hyperMILL®, users now avoid redundant movements thanks to the new axial sorting option. This makes it possible to divide machining by area. It allows corners or pockets to be machined individually one after another. The user can decide whether to create toolpaths with offset level sorting or axial sorting.

There are several new features for roughing in the 5-axis impeller and blisk package. For machining of impellers, it is now possible to divide the machining region into a left and right pocket between the main blade and the splitter. This new option means that these areas can now be machined with different tools in a targeted manner.

The flank mode during roughing enables swarf cutting near blade surfaces. The user can decide whether to use the swarf mode for every step or just for the last step. This extension results in a consistent stock allowance for finishing. Production time can also be reduced here as preliminary finishing can be skipped.

Optimal tool use
hyperMILL® 2012 supports tapered tools for 3D ISO machining whilst including automatic collision avoidance. In the process, the entire tool is checked for collisions against the model, which ensures high process reliability. Tapered tools offer more stability, reduce tool vibrations and improve surfaces simultaneously.

For turning operations, hyperMILL® functionality has been extended to include inclined grooving. This is why offset tools can now also be used. The tool database has therefore been expanded to include these recessing tools.

Toolpaths and tool life
Pocket milling has been improved in the 3D roughing area. As a result, for the machining of pockets, the ramp is moved continuously in one direction. The pocket is then cleared from the outside in. The advantage with the continuous inward movement of the ramp is that the tool path is optimised and zig-zag movements are avoided.

This software release will be debuted at the AMB trade show (hall 4, booth B31) in Stuttgart from September 18 through 22.