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 CNC
Software
DP
Technology, Camarillo, CA, has introduced ESPRIT 99 CAM software
for all types of CNC programming. The software features a Windows-compatible
interface, support for seven languages, and enhanced support for mill
and lathe operations. The new automatic milling feature allows users
to immediately generate an area profile for rest material. The program
creates machinable features for uncut material and determines the tools
needed for the finishing operation. Users can automate the creation
of machinable features from a solid model. The software includes over
800 post-processors and the ability to connect to any machine on a shop
floor. Top
Injection
Molding Material
ClearTexTM single-component
synthetic latex from Zeller
International, Winter Park, FL, is a clear, stretchy rubber material
that is non-allergenic, dries fast at room temperature, is available
in a variety of colors, and can be used to produce tear-resistant parts.
It can be used for coating, casting, film-forming, injection molding,
and extrusion of parts such as gaskets, seals, O-rings, handles, and
grips. The waterproof material can be used for dielectric/conformal
encapsulation coatings and liquid tapes. It is compatible with urethanes,
fiberglas, metal, glass, ceramic, and polymer fortified gypsum, and
is available in liquid or bead forms. Top
 Simulation
& Modeling Software
SimCad Series 3.1 process simulation and modeling software
from CreateASoft,
Naperville, IL, enables users to recreate current operating environments,
identify problem areas, and simulate real-time solutions. It can be
used in any business process, from manufacturing to business services.
The software incorporates animation, real-time feedback, and what-if
scenarios to streamline process modeling flows. Enhancements include
improved model-building, support for resource monitoring, real-time
graphing and reporting, and time distribution. Top
Prototyping
Services
Planex
USA, Fort Worth, TX, offers ProtoDuctionTM
services, including near-production-quality injection molded prototypes.
The company uses a proprietary E-System process for producing epoxy
composite tools. It offers a choice of production materials, low cost,
and 200 to 1,000 parts off of each tool. Other services include short
shots for mold flow evaluation, functional snap fits, production tolerances,
insert molding, and aluminum tooling. Top
 Parts
Printer
The Genisys Xs 3D parts printer from Stratasys,
Eden Prairie, MN, allows users to build parts up to 12 x 8 x 8 inches.
The system operates in a footprint of 36.5 x 32 inches, and can be set
on a desk top. It prints in a polyester material; prints can be sanded,
drilled, or painted. The system features a built-in clock that tracks
cumulative build hours. When the system needs routine service, a user
alert is displayed on the LCD panel. The printer uses the Linux O/S
operating system and runs on an industrial-grade embedded controller
within the machine. It is compatible with intranets and can be networked.
All networked users can view the entire print queue to check the status
of their parts. Top
2D
CAD Software
ViaGrafix
Corp., Pryor, OK, has introduced ViaCAD, a 2D, entry-level CA system
for engineering and drawing. Designed for the non-CAD professional,
the software allows users to draw a line or other object, and displays
the length of the line with the cursor in real time, along with the
horizontal and vertical dimensions. The Autodimension command automatically
adds dimensions for all selected items in a drawing. The four types
of dimensions supported are linear, angular, radius/diameter, and coordinate.
A library of 3,000 symbols is standard, and Internet compatibility is
provided with JPEG and VRML file support. Other file formats supported
for drawing import and export include AutoCAD's DWG and DXF. Top
Prototyping
Kits
Designer's Kits for engineers provide sample quantities
of magnetic components made by J.W.
Miller Magnetics, Gardena, CA. The samples are for use by engineers
in design and prototyping projects. Two kits are available: one for
PMH Series high current EMI beads, and one for PMC Series EMI suppression
beads. Each kit offers ten pieces each of 12 popular size/impedance
combinations. Applications include switching power supplies, computers
and peripherals, telecommunications equipment, and audio equipment.
They are designed to reduce high-frequency noise interference and are
available tape-and-reel packaged in standard EIA chip sizes with solder-coated
terminals for wave and reflow soldering. Top
 Infiltration
Material
DTM
Corp., Austin, TX, offers a polymer infiltration material that allows
users to create functional, flexible prototypes such as tubing, hoses,
and gaskets from DSM Desotech's Somos® 201 material.
Somos 201 is a thermoplastic elastomer powder. Laser-sintered Somos
201 parts infiltrated with the new polymer material are watertight,
have enhanced surface finish, and have high burst strength, wear resistance,
and tear resistance. Parts can be made in any color. Top
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