Solutions
By automating processes, the 3D Programming Tube software makes programming tube-cutting machines easier and safer in many respects. When programming a thread in the past, for example, programmers had to specify holes individually for each one by clicking with the mouse, and then they had to select the corresponding tool combination. Then the correct processing sequence had to be specified to prevent collisions. Using the thread parameters, the new Programming Tube software creates the NC program automatically, including all required tools and the processing sequence.
The interaction between Tube Design, Programming Tube and processing on the machine works perfectly now too. Programming Tube creates NC programs automatically based on the 3D CAD construction in Tube Design. Production at the machine then runs up to 99 per cent without manual interventions. If changes do have to be made to the design, Programming Tube does this automatically.
Programming Tube also sets new standards in terms of operator convenience: By editing directly, the programmer can move an object to the desired position and then ensure that processing is error-free with an automatic simulation . The program corrects faulty data as well as rounding radii. Positioning aids and bend connections can be inserted with just a few clicks. Janetzki: “Automatic specification of the processing sequences, the improved loading and unloading strategies as well as the simplified programming of special profiles are the cornerstones of this new software. We can use it to program almost all our components quickly and safely so that they exit the machine error-free.”
Implementation
“During the test period, we were in close contact with the software developers from TRUMPF,“ says Stefan Janetzki and adds: “Our input from the daily work routine was important for TRUMPF and I think that we all benefited and learned a lot during the test run. It was fun to watch the software change over time and to see how it continued to improve.”
