WorkNC CAD CAM enables shop floor 5-axis programming at Jaguar Land Rover SESCOI
The desire to improve the efficiency of CNC programming and manufacture in the prototyping area drove the company to evaluate new CAM software. It picked WorkNC for its ease of use, as shop floor programming was one of the major changes it wanted to implement. WorkNC has an ergonomic interface and a structured approach to toolpath generation, making it easy to import IGES data from Jaguar Land Rover’s CATIA CAD software, and apply safe and effective cutterpaths. Its ability to run on a PC and its embedded tools for the production of setup sheets and documentation were also key feature requirements.
The users of the WorkNC CAD CAM software are experienced and skilled machinists, and having the software in the workshop enables them to program parts themselves, and optimize CNC toolpaths while the machine tools are cutting. Not only has this enriched their skill set, but it has also empowered them by giving more control over the machining process. Previously, CNC programming was carried out off line in the prototype design office. Installing WorkNC in the workshop has produced benefits here too, allowing the designers to focus more of their time on high value design activities, enabling Jaguar Land Rover to achieve more with the same resources.
The CNC model making workshop uses WorkNC and has two Mecof 5-axis machining centres, one of which is 12m x 2.5m x1.5m with a rotary platform. This machine is capable of machining a full sized clay vehicle model. It is also used for producing models of other parts, such as interior trim and door casing mock ups, in polyurethane board. The style of these is then refined, before the model data is captured and returned to CAD for further feasibility studies. The second Mecof is used for smaller parts, such as vacuum forming molds for fuel tanks, again in polyurethane board. WorkNC’s 3+2 programming capability is invaluable for this process, enabling the company to get a snapshot of the vehicle’s evolving design.
21 July 2011
