The discrete manufacturing industry is facing increasing demands for shorter turn around times and higher quality production. For those companies that are faced with large numbers of small jobs, the estimating and process planning functions are critical. ICEM Technologies has recently introduced technology designed specifically for process planners. The "PART(c)" system works directly from B-rep solid models produced by many popular design systems including ACIS based applications, Catia, ICEM, and Pro/ENGINEER. Through an ACIS based feature recognition, these models are broken down into recognizable manufacturing features. A knowledge based system stores shop floor information including available cutter tools, machine tools, and preferred machining methods. By combining these technologies, the system can automatically recommend setups, select cutter tools and machines, optimize machining operations, and produce complete NC tool paths and reports.
Leah D. Zewers
Marketing Associate ICEM Technologies 4201 N. Lexington Avenue Arden Hills, MN 55126-6198 USA 612-482-2234 fax:612-482-4899 leah.zewers@cdc.com