OPEN MIND Presents hyperMILL 2019.2

The latest version of hyperMILL has a range of new features including high-precision 3D finishing, 5-axis tangent machining, high-performance turning and new CAD-for-CAM technologies. OPEN MIND is integrating more and more functions that previously required extra CAD machining steps directly into CAM strategies to further speed up programming in Version 2019.2 of hyperMILL

The previous version of hyperMILL already featured high-precision profile finishing; now, hyperMILL 2019.2 offers a comparable function for 3D shape Z-level finishing. The ‘high-precision surface mode’ option ensures ultra-smooth surfaces with tolerances in the µm range. This saves time on post-machining finishing processes, particularly when applied to mould making. The ‘Smooth overlap’ function has the same effect for 3D profile finishing. The transition regions for steep and shallow machining have a small overlap including a slightly lifted cutter, resulting in perfect finishing with an imperceptible transition.

CAD functions directly integrated into CAM

In hyperMILL 2019.2, the hyperCAD-S function ‘Global fitting’ is directly integrated into the CAM strategy in 5-axis tangent machining. With this function, multiple faces can be joined into one face with defined ISO orientation. The principle of using CAD elements for CAM programming is also applied, for example, for automatic face extension. With the automatic face extension, the bounding surfaces are automatically extended during programming to improve the edges of the machined surfaces. This greatly simplifies programming, since these adjustments are made within the CAM strategy, without switching to the CAD environment.

High-performance turning

In the last version of hyperMILL MAXX Machining, turn-roughing was implemented with trochoidal toolpaths. Optimised connecting paths and fluent machine movements ensure high-performance machining. This means significantly higher machining values can be driven compared to conventional roughing methods. Version 2019.2 guarantees even greater process reliability for high-performance turning and tool life monitoring makes it possible to restrict the use of a tool by the distance covered, the number of toolpaths, or a time limit. If the defined limit is reached, a retract macro is generated automatically and the job ends.

Improved feature and macro technology

OPEN MIND has also further improved the feature and macro technology in the new version to enable more secure and simpler programming for users. One function that is generally useful for everyday work is the definition of macros for recurring geometries. OPEN MIND has now added full-text searching to the macro database. Users can also define machine and material groups as defaults to make it easier to select macros.

Hole feature linking means that model changes made to CAD features are automatically transferred to hyperMILL. Since design changes in CAD are associatively linked with the CAM system, users can quickly and securely make updates.

Analytical capabilities

An important aspect of automating CNC programming is analyzing the existing design in terms of possible machining strategies.

An interesting new function is available for users who work with very large parts with hyperCAD-S. It enables the workpiece mass and center of mass to be calculated with a material definition for solid, mesh and stock models. Another highlight of the CAD portion of the suite is the ‘Undercut’ function, which makes it possible to detect undercut areas on components quickly and reliably. Moreover, the new ‘Local curvature’ analysis function makes it possible to detect curvature radii on components. The minimum curvature radius, which often plays the biggest role, is output immediately. The user can then determine the best possible lead angles or tool radii for machining curved faces.