Delcam's Power Solution lets Academy Plastic Model Co. reduce time spent developing its model kits.
REPLACING ITS PREVIOUS MIXTURE OF software with Delcam's Power Solution lets Korea's Academy Plastic Model Co. reduce time spent developing new model kits. In one project, a kit for an F-18 fighter, the company produced a scale-model aircraft in five months, as opposed to the usual 15. The software also eliminates five different systems used in the various stages of design and manufacture of new models.
Purchasing a Deckel Maho DMU 60T high-speed mill prompted Academy's software change. Its existing CAM package had trouble machining the complicated, precision parts at high speeds. Delcam's PowerMill CAM system, on the other hand, provided a better machining solution. In addition, the Delcam software could help in other areas.
Academy produces its kits from prototype models that are created from 2D designs developed from historical drawings and pictures. With the new software, the company scans the prototype with a Perceptron laser scanner mounted on a CimCore arm. It then produces a 3D CAD model of the outer skin within the CopyShape reverse-engineering package using data from the scanner.
This design moves into the PowerShape hybrid modeler, and Academy creates internal features such as those that aid in assembly. Once the part shape is turned into a complete 3D mold design, PowerMill generates cutter paths.
Delcam software speeds the overall process and lets Academy make model parts exactly as described in original drawings. This lets the company develop the assembly instructions for the model maker concurrently with manufacturing mold tools.
This wasn't always the case at Academy. In most instances, the various component designs went through a series of modifications before being successfully molded. This meant that Academy could not start the assembly instructions until making a complete model.
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