GibbsCAM® MTM0 pages

GibbsCAM® MTM
CNC Programming for Multi-Task Machining
Multiple spindles. Multiple turrets. Material being machined
in multiple stages, transferring from spindle to spindle without
handling. Stock inserted at one end, finished parts coming
out the other. Multi-Task Machining (MTM) is the fastest
growing machine tool segment today and the most
demanding. Realizing the ultimate level of utilization from
these MTM-class machine tools requires a CAM system that
is capable of functioning and thinking exactly like an MTMclass machine tool. GibbsCAM MTM was specifically designed
to address the CNC programming requirements of MTM,
providing powerful programming tools that are easy to learn and use.
Because MTM-class machine tools are constantly evolving with infinitely variable
configurations, GibbsCAM MTM was designed with the ultimate in flexibility and
configurability. Starting with a base machine tool definition, bar feeders, parts catchers,
turrets, sub-spindles and other machine options are added. The necessary level of machine
modeling is provided to support the customer’s exact machine tool configuration right down
to the device-specific cycle times and NC code. Tooling is defined, located and oriented
on the machine tool using GibbsCAM’s graphical interface. Fixed and live tooling, as well
as form tools, are supported. GibbsCAM MTM is like having a custom programming system
for each MTM machine tool.
Local coordinate systems are pre-defined by GibbsCAM MTM for each spindle to facilitate
defining geometry for turning (ZX plane, including –X cuts), OD or B- or C-axis rotary
milling and cross drilling (YZ plane), face milling and off-center drilling (YX plane) and
back facing. CAD part geometry, including solids, can be imported using GibbsCAM’s data
exchange options, which support reading a wide variety of CAD formats. Geometry can
also be defined interactively or using imported CAD geometry as a reference point.
Machining processes are easily defined with GibbsCAM’s intuitive graphical user interface
that provides seamless access to both turning and milling capabilities. Processes can be defined
as a single serial sequence and then analyzed using GibbsCAM MTM’s Sync Manager, a
graphical tool which displays the program’s multiple flows and their processes. The Sync
Manager handles the time-dependent aspects of the program, managing all the details that
are introduced when multiple tool groups are cutting simultaneously. Using the Sync Manager,
it is easy to move operations around in the overall flow to minimize non-cutting time, and
control parallel operations by placing synch relationships wherever needed. And GibbsCAM’s
associativity allows operations to be updated easily when modifications are made.
At any point in time while developing the CNC program, the machining process can be
graphically simulated and visually reviewed. Tool/tool, tool/stock and stock/stock
interference can be detected allowing program errors to be corrected before it wastes
material or damages tooling. The Machine Simulation option provides full machine
component animation and collision checking, providing a powerful environment for
program optimization.
Recognized as one of the most powerful post processing capabilities available, GibbsCAM’s
factory-supplied post processors output multi-flow NC code complete with utility operations
and sync codes. Guaranteed error-free/edit-free, what-you-see-is-what-you-machine NC
code is generated, ready to run on the machine tool and produce good parts.