CloudNC, a leading technology company specializing in precision manufacturing, has launched CAM Assist, a game-changing software solution that accelerates CAM programming time and enhances productivity for manufacturers. By automating strategy creation in CAM packages, CAM Assist significantly reduces the time required for CNC machine programmers to program components, resulting in faster and more efficient precision machining processes.
Available as a plug-in within Autodesk’s Fusion 360 software platform, CAM Assist utilizes advanced computer science techniques to generate professional machining strategies for 3-axis parts in seconds, a process that would typically take programmers hours or even days to complete manually. This substantial reduction in programming time, up to 80% faster than traditional methods, has the potential to alleviate the global skills shortage faced by manufacturers, allowing them to increase productivity and meet tighter lead times.
The introduction of CAM Assist empowers precision manufacturers to optimize their processes and bridge the widening skills gap in the industry. By leveraging the software, experienced programmers can free up time to focus on more complex tasks, while junior employees can quickly learn and program intricate parts, enabling them to contribute meaningfully and efficiently. The software’s capabilities empower manufacturers to enhance productivity, shorten supply chains, and reduce costs, addressing the challenges arising from rising expenses, aging workforces, and global competition.
Theo Saville, founder of CloudNC, emphasizes the transformative impact of CAM Assist, stating that it represents a paradigm shift for the precision manufacturing sector. By expediting CAM programming, CAM Assist enables manufacturers to improve machine uptime, minimize lead times, enhance process stability, and expedite the development of expert machinists. These advancements will invigorate precision manufacturing companies, enabling them to navigate the evolving landscape while preserving cost efficiencies and competitiveness.
Traditionally, CAM programmers would spend hours to several days determining the most effective strategy for CNC machining a component. This process involves selecting appropriate tools, toolpaths, and techniques from numerous possibilities. However, CAM Assist leverages advanced computational optimization and AI inference techniques to rapidly determine the ideal machining strategy and toolset for a specific part, alongside optimal cutting speeds and feeds.
With CAM Assist, users of Fusion 360 can effortlessly upload a 3D model of a 3-axis component, and the software automatically identifies the best milling tools from the available options and generates the necessary code to instruct the CNC machine. In mere seconds, CAM Assist produces the code within the user’s existing CAM platform, streamlining the programming process and enhancing overall efficiency.
CloudNC conducted side-by-side trials of CAM Assist with senior CAM programmers, revealing that users could reduce programming times by up to 80% compared to manual programming methods. The software saves time for more experienced programmers by simplifying tasks related to program set-up and toolpath creation.
Early access users of CAM Assist, such as Andy Soos, Managing Director at Bedford CNC, have witnessed its transformative impact firsthand. Soos attests to the software’s ability to open up new opportunities and streamline programming, resulting in accelerated delivery times for customers.
While CAM Assist currently focuses on 3-axis components, multi-axis and freeform capabilities will soon be accessible to beta customers. This expansion will further enhance the software’s versatility and applicability in various precision manufacturing processes.
CloudNC recognizes the pressing issue of the manufacturing skills gap, which currently costs the UK an estimated £21 million per day in lost output. CAM Assist serves as a solution to this challenge by enabling senior programmers to utilize their time more efficiently while allowing unskilled workers to become proficient in a shorter period. The software empowers workshop owners to maximize productivity, enabling individuals new to Fusion 360 to produce components from day one, all within their existing CAM package.
