The most obvious change for existing Delcam users will be the new-look interface. This incorporates a more modern style of icon throughout the system, with images that more clearly illustrate the various options.
FeatureCAM 2011 will be the first version to support 64-bit hardware. 64-bit technology removes the memory limitations of 32-bit computers so allowing more efficient tool path generation, especially for companies machining large or complex parts.
The improved data exchange has been achieved by enabling Delcam’s Exchange software to be used as an additional import mechanism so that all the formats supported by Exchange can be imported into FeatureCAM. These include direct translations from systems such as CATIA V5, Siemens NX and Solid Edge, Pro/Engineer, AutoCAD Inventor, SolidWorks and Rhino, as well as support for standard formats like Parasolid, ACIS, IGES and STEP.
Fully automated de-burring and chamfering is now available when programming 2- or 2.5-axis parts. Another 2-axis enhancement is the ability to machine parts larger than the travel of the machine tool. If the machine has a table that can index around the Z-axis, FeatureCAM can divide the component into pieces and generate the required series of machining operations.
