Module speeds sheet metal bending programs

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Jun 23, 2004

RadbendCNC offers press brake users substantial cost and time savings in the production of their folded sheet metal parts.

RadbendCNC, the latest module to be added to Radan's integrated suite of Radan 04 CAD/CAM software, offers press brake users substantial cost and time savings in the production of their folded sheet metal parts.

The new application incorporates automatic bend sequence calculation and visualisation, as well as automatic tool selection and finger stop placement, to provide simple and fast machine programming.

The software generates the folding program complete with all required bend angle and allowance information - which can be encoded directly into the drawing, or specified independently by the user.

RadbendCNC's offline programming capabilities also minimise machine change-over times and are backed by high levels of automation.

As a result, the new module not only determines the optimum bend sequence at the touch of a button - taking into account part geometry and best machining practice - but will also generate CNC part programs based on optimised tool sets selected from user-defined libraries.

However, all parameters can be manually overridden via the system's simple and intuitive graphical user interface, ensuring maximum operator control.

RadbendCNC's sophisticated simulation routines enable potential collisions between the part and the selected tooling or the machine tool itself to be calculated and displayed instantly on screen - allowing real-time program verification without the need to physically produce, and potentially scrap, prototype or test parts.

The new software also supports an even wider range of machine tools than before, including: Amada, Beyeler, Darley, Edwards Pearson, Pullmax/Ursviken, Safan and Trumpf.

RadbendCNC extends Radan's "total solution" concept through its seamless integration with Radan 04 3D, the company's powerful 3D CAD module.

In addition, part geometry can be imported directly from DXF and DWG files.

A further feature of the new module is its ability to generate complete shop floor documentation - including graphically illustrated setup sheets, complete with part details and bending sequences.

It also provides manufacturing information such as tooling, setup times and costs, which can provide valuable aids to production planning and estimating.