The new version 6 of the CAM system hyperFORM takes full advantage of technologies such as high-speed cutting and 5 axis siWith the new version 6.0 of its cam system hyperFORM, Open Mind Technologies in Unterfoehring near Munich, Germany, is setting new standards in the 2.5 and 3D-CAM field for the most demanding industries such as tool- and mold-making. The functional scope begins with convenient data import from CAD systems with new control and repair functions. Fast definition capabilities for 2D tasks, such as drilling holes or thread cutting, are also included, as are refined machining strategies for modern milling technologies.

For anyone who wants to program high-speed cutting (HSC) or 5 axis simultaneous machining, hyperFORM is the perfect tool.

One of the main highlights is that the new version simulates the machining process with the tool and tool-holder directly on the CAD model! Open Mind will present a look ahead to the new CAM system hyperFORM 6.0 at the CeBIT trade fair from March 22 - 28, 2001, in hall 21, stand D09.

Thanks to the standard interfaces IGES, STEP, VDA-FS and DXF/DWG or the direct interfaces from CATIA and Parasolid, model and mold makers can import all 3D data into the CAM system without loss.

But before toolpaths can be generated from this data, the model often still has to be prepared for processing.

Surface gaps must be closed, surfaces trimmed or new boundaries defined for the machining areas.

hyperFORM 6.0 provides convenient functions for these preparations, thus eliminating the costly and time-consuming detour via a CAD system.

Routine 2D tasks will continue to be the order of the day in NC programming.

The new cycles of hyperFORM V6 allow routine tasks such as drilling holes and thread cutting to be performed at lightning speed.

In addition, CNC-specific drilling or pocket milling cycles of the machine tool can be addressed, thus shortening the programs and programming times.

hyperFORM's numerous 3D milling strategies can be used globally for an entire workpiece or be restricted to local areas.

Naturally global and local strategies may be combined to reduce programming and machining times.

The advanced 3D functionality of the system has been further enhanced in version 6.0.

For many 3D strategies, such as profile finishing, equidistant finishing or free-form cutting, offsets can now be changed several times.

This effectively protects sensitive contours such as form partings.

A new, even more exact definition of tools and tool-holders allows an extremely realistic simulation of the machining process on the screen.

Visualization and collision avoidance encompass all 3D strategies up to 5 axis simultaneous machining.

As hyperFORM 6.0 also offers features for conical tool-holders, as used for spherical cutters, and special cycles for cavity finishing, it is ideally suited to HSC processing.

The much improved, clearly structured user interface allows easier access to the individual functions.

If users draw design parts with the mouse, they can now track the tolerances in mini dialog boxes, which follow the geometry.

They can enter new values directly in these boxes, thus dispensing with large dialog boxes which often block the view.

The user interface and keyboard layout can be adapted to individual needs of the users.

The context-sensitive help system not only explains the control functions of the geometry element but also provides detailed background information.

Open Mind Technologies will present its CAM system hyperFORM V6.0 for tool- and mold-making at the CeBIT 2001 trade fair for the first time.

hyperFORM runs under Windows NT/2000 and will be available from April 2001.

Open Mind Technologies develops innovative cam software for industry, incorporating new technologies in various market-tailored product packages: hyperMILL is a CAM application which is integrated in Mechanical Desktop, thinkdesign( or CATIA.

Using hyperMILL, CAD designs can be directly converted into NC programs for mechanical processing without having to leave the familiar CAD environment.

hyperFORM is the standalone 2D/3D CAM system for high 3D demands in tool and mold making.

hyperFACT is the standalone CAM station for shopfloor-oriented NC programming and optimized production.

Open Mind is a member of the Autodesk 'Mechanical Application Initiative' (MAI).

In Germany, Open Mind products are sold through a special distribution network and selected dealers.

Open Mind also has branch offices in the USA, Great Britain, France, Italy and Singapore and is represented by various distributors in all industrial countries worldwide. multaneous machining.