MAXcomputer GmbH - www.max-computer.de

This information is valid for the versions as of 6x since October 2002

3D-bodies are already milled by many customers. And the number of those who are interested in it is increasing.How do we deal with 3D?
We will give you an overview and a short information.

The CNC-Machine of our system KOSY can move 3 axes simultaneously in space and is therefore able to mill 3D-bodies. You only have to tell it how to move - via a controlling program. The electronics of the CNC-machine should, however, be equipped with a so-called spooler, not all machine types have got one or can be upgraded.

A KOSY-controlling program for 3D-bodies can be generated in different ways:

• 3D-Constructing and milling, all within nccad - Since version 6 of nccad you can construct "Plastic Zones". They are technologically determined also within nccad and a controlling program is generated that can be run directly at the CNC-Machine of our coordinate-system KOSY. This 3D-construction within nccad can certainly not meet all of your wishes, but a lot.
• 3D-Scanning and milling, all within nccad - Since version 6 of nccad so-called "Plastic Zones" can be scanned by means of different strategies. Drawings are generated which can also be re-edited. They are then technologically described through nccad , thus generating a controller program able to run directly at the CNC-machine of our coordinate-system KOSY. When an original body is scanned, it is measured as exactly as possible by going over it in "lines". Measuring can be done primitively with simple mechanical measuring devices, but also comfortably with "scanning devices" and "3D-Scanners". We offer some options and will be pleased to inform you.
• 3D-Constructing with other CAD/CAM-modules, milling with nccad - Any 3D-CAD-program can help you with designing a body. The drawing file will be transferred in a usual format (3D-DXF or STL, etc.) to a CAM-program for technological processing. With its help, the machining data and conditions (Technology) - and the machine parameters are selected. Finally, an integrated postprocessor will generate a CNC-program after DIN/ISO 66025 for your CNC-machine. This program can be imported and processed by nccad, when the postprocessor has been adapted to nccad.

What do you have to think about when buying a 3D-CAD program and a postprocessor:

• How easy is the program to be handled, how much time does it take to study it, what helps are given?
• Can geometric figures be created and combined only or also free-form-elements?
• Is a CAM-program existing and is the postprocessor adapted or adaptable to KOSY? CAM-programs with KOSY-postprocessor are available for (nearly) all cases, e.g. DeskProto or Esprit or ...... , there are many possibilities. Whenever you own a 3D CAD-program already and are looking for a CAM-program with postprocessor suitable for KOSY, we can help you.

Since version 6 of nccad STL-files can be processed directly. This means, you can construct a 3D-body in another CAD-program and export it as STL-file. After import this 3D-body can be edited in nccad:

• watch it and take it into a suitable machining position
• measure it to determine the measures for the crude piece
• define the machining parameters
• mill it in X-Y-Z-level in three-dimensions (no undercuts)
• mill it all around by using our turning unit (undercuts are possible)

The STL-machining functions of nccad are satisfactory in many cases, but not so ample as in a professional CAM-program. It must be decided which software equipment is required for your applications. Show us a sample and tell us what your expectations are.

In short, you can say: 3D-Modelling with KOSY means that pieces can be manufactured with our system from the beginning of your design idea to the ready milled body. We can deliver all components you need , from CAD-Program to CNC-machine. Do not hesitate to call us for more information or to see us at our headquarters or at a trade fair.

Valid since version nccad6

Construct and edit plastic zones

Place rectangular or circular zones in the drawing area and construct or edit sectional views in them.
In this manner you can create bowls, buttons, roofs, landscapes, channels, wings,etc. Plastic zones can be shifted, rotated, circularly arranged or combined with 2 and1/2D-machining.

Enter the machining data (technology)

For the machining of plastic zones the so-called strategy is of importance, it determines the milling tracks and order. Settings like the diameter of the tool, feed, width of steps,etc. decide on the quality of the surface.

Scanning areas or edge contours

When you have a scanning sensor (optional) you can "scan" 3D-bodies with the help of the CNC-Machine and the integrated Software-functions. They are then saved as surface file- or STL-file - and processed further on in nccad.

Direct processing of STL-files

All CAD-programs able to do 3D can output the body as STL-file. nccad can import these files, display the body, process the machining data (technology, strategy, etc.) and control the 3D-machining.

Milling all around with our additional turning unit

nccad can process STL-files after their import for machining by the turning unit. Different strategies allow to produce complete three-dimensional bodies. There is no longer the problem of parts being hidden behind others.