ICAM Technologies Corporation introduces Control EmulatorTM (CE), a new software product allowing NC programmers to simulate and test NC programs using Machine Code Data (MCD) within the CATIA V5 / DELMIA environment.
Simulate Machine Code Data with ICAM’s Control Emulator
ICAM Technologies Corporation introduces Control EmulatorTM (CE), a new software product allowing NC programmers to simulate and test NC programs using Machine Code Data (MCD) within the CATIA V5 / DELMIA environment.
As compared to traditional APT-based simulation systems, which simulate the programmer’s planned tool path, CE allows for a more meaningful simulation that represents how the machine tool will react to the MCD output that was generated from the post-processor.
Deploying CATIA V5 / DELMIA / CE as an integrated package enables the user to run simulations on a per operation basis during the NC programming session, resulting in a significant reduction in NC programming time.
CE provides a new and powerful validation method allowing users to determine the association between MCD and specific operations within the NC program and allows for specific modifications to the CATIA CATProcess depending on simulation results.
CE reads MCD to emulate the actions of CNC machines and controllers and provides users with the following advanced functions
Validates the accuracy of the MCD
Verifies the actual tool path as described by the MCD
Tests the MCD for machine / tool / part collisions
Allows users to compare the design part against an MCD-based material removal part simulation
Control Emulator Benefit Highlights
Integrated within CATIA / DELMIA
The integrated CATIA V5 / DELMIA / CE solution enables NC programmers to graphically simulate and test NC programs for collisions and over-travel before the MCD is implemented in a production environment.
This unique “single workbench” capability allows programmers to avoid and correct programming errors that may have resulted in costly machine tool collisions and defective parts.
In addition, CE accommodates an “in-process” or “on-demand” CATIA V5 / DELMIA / CE simulation environment vs. the existing multiple process loop currently offered by independent competitive solutions.
Benefits include improvements to NC programmer productivity and manufacturing process efficiency.
Seamlessly Integrated with CAM-POST
ICAM CE is fully integrated with CAM-POST, ICAM’s leading edge NC post-processor developer; therefore, users may employ advanced features inherent to CAM-POST such as Macro Tracing, Call Stack Status, Input and Output Stepping and NC Variable Watching and Modification.
ICAM CE / SIEMENS VNCK Integrated with Virtual Machine
The SIEMENS Virtual NC Kernel (VNCK) product deployed in conjunction with ICAM’s Control Emulator (CE) allows for the simulation of all the advanced features and functionalities of the SIEMENS SINUMERIK 840D Controller. VNCK contains a virtual copy of the SINUMERIK CNC encompassing a NC kernel motion logic which uses the same motion algorithms used by an actual 840D Controller; subsequently, VNCK enables NC programmers to reliably emulate NC programs with regard to cutting conditions, axes movements, collisions, work piece geometry and motion behavior of CNC machine tools equipped with a SIEMENS SINUMERIK 840D Control.
Efficient Post-Processor and Controller Emulator Development
CE may be created from existing post-processors generated by NC manufacturing experts utilizing CAM-POST. In this case, CE is generated at the “Start-Up” or at “Run-Time”; subsequently, all post-processor data modifications are reflected automatically in the CE.
Shortened Learning Curve for CAM-POST Users
CE utilizes the same macro language as CAM-POST for advanced customization features. All defined CODE and DATA registers are shown in two intuitive tables; hence, configuration changes are easily executed to fit specific requirements .
Supports Advanced Controller Specific Syntax
When dealing with advanced controller programming such as variable definition, expression evaluation, branching and looping, the CE interacts with two plugin libraries that recognize special SIEMENS 840D and FANUC Macro B controller features. Users also have the option to develop custom plugin DLL modules to drive the CE to meet specific functions.
Run-Time Flexibility
Any NC command blocks can be manually typed or imported as a text file at “Run-Time” using the CE manual data entry (MDI) input console. This feature enables users to test multiple solutions without the need to change the input MCD file and restart the entire process.
Control Emulator Feature Highlights
Fully Integrated with CAM-POST
Resides in same database as CAM-POST post-processors and Virtual Machine® models
Created using QUEST UI builder
Executed and debugged using GENER UI run-time
Seamlessly integrated with Virtual Machine
QUEST Based Builder
CEs can be built separately, or based on existing post-processors
Standard post-processor questionnaire defines base capabilities
CE customization supports non-standard requirements
Uses CAM-POST’s macro language for customization
Built-in support for DELMIA models
CeRUN Run-Time
Full debugger UI
Preprocessors to support advanced MCD containing variables, looping and expressions
Supports advanced SIEMENS 840D and Fanuc Macro B programming syntax
Supports Advanced NC Programming Functions
Linear / circular / helical interpolation
Drilling cycles
Tool change and tool pre-select
Length, diameter, fixture compensation
Spindle, coolant and feed
Subprograms (basic)
Tool plane (e.g., G17/18/19)
Program units (e.g., G20/21)
Absolute vs. relative positioning (e.g., G90/91)
Program dwell (e.g., G04)