What’s New in - help.edgecam.comhelp.edgecam.com/Content/Online_Help/en/2015R2/PDF/whatsnew.pdf · What’s New in Edgecam 2015 R2 This document highlights new product features

What’s New in Edgecam 2015 R2

This document highlights new product features and enhancements in Edgecam 2015 R2.

To run Edgecam and Part Modeler 2015 R2, the expiry date in the license must be March 2015 or later.

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What's New in Edgecam 2015 R2 2 of 56

Contents

‘WHAT’S NEW’ DOCUMENT OVERVIEW .................................................................................................................. 5

IMPORTANT INFORMATION .................................................................................................................................... 6

Manufacture Enhancements

CREATE TURN SEQUENCE AND START ON SUB SPINDLE.................................................................................................... 7

TURN SETUPS PART TRANSFER BETWEEN SPINDLES ........................................................................................................ 8

TURN SETUPS - BAR PULL .......................................................................................................................................... 8

SUPPORT FOR LATHES WITH SUB SPINDLES OFFSET FROM X CENTRELINE ............................................................................ 9

MILLING MACHINE WITH TURNING CAPABILITY - TURNING PLANE ..................................................................................... 9

FINISH TURN CYCLE - BLENDED OFFSETS .................................................................................................................... 10

TURN FEATURE TEMPLATE ....................................................................................................................................... 11

SUPPORT FOR M&H PROBING .................................................................................................................................. 12

ADVANCED 5 AXIS CYCLE - PORT MACHINING ............................................................................................................. 12

MILLING LINK MOVE COLLISION AVOIDANCE .............................................................................................................. 13

FACE FEATURE PICKING (SURFACE CYCLES) ................................................................................................................. 13

HOLE CYCLES - VOID OPTIMISATION .......................................................................................................................... 14

SIMULTANEOUS & TWO-STEP INDEXING SUPPORT (MPM MILLING) ................................................................................. 15

FEATURE FIND - RELOCATED HOLES ........................................................................................................................... 15

MEG HOLDERS SUPPORT FOR FIVE AXIS COLLISION CHECKING ........................................................................................ 15

MOVE HOME / TOOLCHANGE .................................................................................................................................. 16

MACHINE MATING LOCATION FOR VICES IN FIXTURE MANAGER ..................................................................................... 16

WIRE CYCLE ADVANCED CONTROLS ........................................................................................................................... 17

WIRE POST PROCESSOR FOR AGIE CHARMILLES CUTX00 MACHINE RANGE ....................................................................... 17

WIRE - MOVE CYCLE ............................................................................................................................................... 18

Simulator Enhancements

THREADS IN SIMULATOR .......................................................................................................................................... 19

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Edgecam Workflow Solids

SLOTTING TOOL ..................................................................................................................................................... 20

SKETCH 'CONSTRAIN ALL' TOOL ................................................................................................................................ 20

DIMENSIONS ON MODEL VIEW ................................................................................................................................. 21

WIRE FEATURE CREATION ....................................................................................................................................... 22

THIRD PARTY MODEL VIEW ..................................................................................................................................... 23

ROTATION OF THE MODEL PART ON THE SCREEN ........................................................................................................... 23

DYNAMIC MANIPULATION OF THE DRILL DEPTH ............................................................................................................ 24

ZOOM EXTENTS WHILE EDITING A SOLID COMMAND AND KEEP THE COMMAND LIVE ............................................................. 24

LOCALE SPECIFIC DECIMAL SEPARATORS ..................................................................................................................... 24

IMPLEMENTATION OF A HIGH CONTRAST COLOUR SCHEME ............................................................................................ 25

TOUCHSCREEN SUPPORT FOR EWS............................................................................................................................ 25

MATHEMATICAL FUNCTIONS IN SKETCHING AND MODEL CREATION ................................................................................. 25

LINE STYLE ............................................................................................................................................................ 26

Part Modeler Enhancements

VIEW MODEL ENHANCEMENTS ................................................................................................................................. 27

SOLIDLINK OPTION FOR LOADING IGES FILES .............................................................................................................. 28

Code Wizard Enhancements

AUTOMILLTURN TEMPLATES ................................................................................................................................ 29

SIMULTANEOUS & TWO-STEP INDEXING SUPPORT (MPM MILLING) ................................................................................. 29

SUPPORT FOR LATHES WITH SUB SPINDLES OFFSET FROM X CENTRELINE .......................................................................... 29

M&H PROBING ...................................................................................................................................................... 30

ROTARY MODE - TOOL BELOW THE CENTRELINE .......................................................................................................... 31

Code Generator Enhancements

NEW SYSTEM VARIABLE FOR SIMULTANEOUS INDEXING ................................................................................................ 32

NEW SYSTEM VARIABLE FOR MOUNT DESCRIPTION ...................................................................................................... 32

NEW TURNING MACRO .......................................................................................................................................... 32

Other Products

ADVEON TOOL LIBRARY........................................................................................................................................... 33

PARTXPLORE ......................................................................................................................................................... 34

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Licensing

NEW - ULTIMATE 5-AXIS SIMULTANEOUS MILLING LICENCE .......................................................................................... 35

NEW WIRE MODULE LICENCE .................................................................................................................................. 35

NEW – PARTXPLORE LICENCES ................................................................................................................................. 36

EDGECAM PROBING LICENCE RENAMED TO RENISHAW PROBING ..................................................................................... 36

SOLID MACHINIST AND LOADING OF STEP FILES........................................................................................................... 36

ADVEON .............................................................................................................................................................. 36

MAINTENANCE DATABASE REPORT....................................................................................................................... 37

NEW FEATURES IN VERSION 2015 R1 .................................................................................................................... 38

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‘What’s New’ Document Overview

Purpose of this Document and Other Sources of Information

The purpose of the document is to highlight new and changed items in the current release. Non-release specific information such as installation and licensing information, system requirements and CAD Links information can be found in the relevant document.

For help with your installation, please refer to the Installation Guide. This is available from the DVD or the Help sub-menu in the Edgecam program group.

For help with licensing your standalone or network license, please refer to the Licensing Guide. This is available from the Help sub-menu in the Edgecam program group, the CLS menu and the License Manager dialog.

For information on system requirements and supported CAD systems, please refer to the Installation Guide.

Targeted Information inside Edgecam and Other Programs

In addition to this document, ‘targeted’ information on new items is available in the dialog help and user guides for other applications. This allows you to focus on new features/enhancements for a specific program or the cycle you are currently working on, for example.

Dialogs that have new functionality or where the cycle behaviour has changed have an additional ‘What’s New’ tab in the help. This explains what has been added to the dialog or changed in this release.

What’s new topic(s) have been added to help files for other programs, such as Code Wizard, Code Generator, and ToolStore etc. This only lists new functionality for that program, allowing you to focus on those items.

The Development History of Edgecam

Additional functionality and enhancements are developed with each release of Edgecam software. For an overview of new features and enhancements in the last release, please refer to New Features in Version 2015 R1.

For a summary of new features in previous releases, please visit the History section of the Edgecam website.

http://www.edgecam.com/releasehistory

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Important Information

32-bit Operating Support retired

2015 R2 will not install on 32-bit Operating Systems.

Edgecam Toolbar interface retired

Edgecam now only supports the Ribbon interface.

Legacy Wire Removed

Legacy Wire has been removed from Edgecam. If you want to load Legacy Wire parts, then 2015 R1 should be kept on the PC.

CADLinks will only install on 64-bit Operating Systems

From 2015 R2, CADLinks will only install on 64-bit Operating Systems.

Installation and Registry Changes

Edgecam and all the components (except CLS) will use Vero Software for the registry and default installation folders instead of Planit.

.pci File Format

As part of the phasing out of the old .pci script file format which has been superseded by the .js JavaScript file format, from Edgecam 2016 R1 onwards, you will not be able to record macros to the .pci format. Existing .pci files will continue to run.

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Create Turn Sequence and Start on Sub Spindle

The Spindle Part Transfer can now be done in Manufacture using a New Docking / Part Transfer command. This command enables the part to be transferred between either spindle multiple times, with the added possibility to machine the sub spindle part away from its home position.

In conjunction with this enhancement we have also added the possibility to start on the sub spindle when creating a turning sequence.

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Turn Setups Part Transfer Between Spindles

A new Spindle Docking / Part Transfer command named Spindle Setup has been developed to overcome the limitations present in our current spindle docking command.

Therefore the Spindle Docking command has been superseded by the new Spindle Setup command - all existing sequences containing Spindle Docking should be unaffected.

But to benefit from the new functionality you will need to use the new Spindle Setup command.

The main benefits of the new command are:

Multiple transfers between either spindle.

Possibility to start on sub spindle and pass back to main.

Sub spindle part can be machined away from its Home position in Z and X.

Easily editable from Sequence Browser.

Display shows one setup at a time.

Turn Setups - Bar Pull

Bar Pull has been improved for this release:

Each Bar Pull is now considered as a new set-up within the sequence.

Layers are no longer used to control what is displayed.

Only items pertaining to the active setup are displayed on the graphics.

Feature Browser lists only the items relating to the active setup.

Clearer visualisation.

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Support for Lathes with Sub Spindles Offset from X Centreline

We now provide support for Lathes with sub spindles offset from X Centreline to help avoid potential collisions with the main spindle when machining on the sub spindle:

In code wizard, it is now possible to state an X location other than zero for sub spindle home position.

Create Turning Sequence allows the part to be mounted on a sub spindle which is offset in X.

Spindle Setup and Move Sub Spindle commands support sub spindle X positions.

Milling Machine with Turning Capability - Turning Plane

A new Turning Plane option has been added to the Tool Definition section of the General tab allowing you to specify whether the turn tool should perform the turning cycles on XZ plane or YZ plane. Depending on the option chosen, the available orientations will be filtered according to the machine capabilities.

Only available on Milling machines with turning capability.

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Finish Turn Cycle - Blended Offsets

Blended

Not Blended

We have introduced a new Blended option to the General tab. When checked, the generated toolpath will be blended between profile elements that have differing offsets.

The Blended option is typically required when specifying small amounts of offset in the Machining Attributes table.

Machine tools can error when controller compensation is active and small offset changes are specified; usually less than or equal to the radius of the insert. The Blended toolpath avoids the sharp changes in direction that can cause these controller problems.

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Turn Feature Template

In order to easily identify and create specific turn features, based on particular shapes, we have developed Turning Feature Templates. The special turn features can be created via Automatic Feature Recognition or manual turn features and saved as templates.

The main application of this function is the creation of templates for groove features, making it easier to program them via Strategy Manager. All types of turn features are supported and you can:

Create a template Select the feature which must be saved as a template and, on the Properties window, click the Save button.

Edit a template The ranges of the elements can be edited prior to saving the Turn Template directly on the Properties window.

Find a Turn Template Using new Match to Template and Include Template Features in Profiles options in the Turn Options on the Turn tab, the Automatic Feature Finder will find and match the Turn Templates to the part geometry. It will search the part geometry for features that match the saved templates and consider the ranges and types of element properties.

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Support for m&h Probing

We have introduced support for m&h machine tool probing (Mill Only).

New options have been added to the General tab of the Probing cycles providing support for m&h machine tool probing:

Function - Selects what the probing should do, for example, Update a datum, Measure or Check size

Print - Sends the probe information to a printer

Work Coordinate - Only available when the Update Work coordinate Function is selected.

Extended Work Coordinate - Only available when the Update Extended Work coordinate Function is selected.

Note: m&h Probing must be enabled in the Code Wizard and the post processor recompiled.

Advanced 5 Axis cycle - Port Machining

A new license called Ultimate 5-Axis Simultaneous Milling has been created to provide access to the Port machining option in the Advanced 5 Axis Cycle. The Multi Blade machining option has been moved from the Advanced 5 Axis Simultaneous Milling license to the new Ultimate 5-Axis Simultaneous Milling license.

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Milling Link Move Collision Avoidance

Link moves between Milling cycles will now check against Stock and Fixtures and retract the tool clear to a safe height.

The Update Fixtures command has been updated to control what is collision checked and the Offsets to be used. All of the Milling Cycles will use these settings.

The Fixture, Stock and Holder (MEG or CSV) can be selected independently using three new modifiers:

Collision Check Fixtures.

Collision Check Stock.

Include Holder.

On large complex models, you can improve performance by unchecking when you know there will not be an issue.

The Default will be a Fixture Offset of 5 mm or 0.2 in with all options checked. All options are modal.

Note: For Hole Cycles, the Clearance is set to the highest point for that group. Currently, the cycle only supports a single Clearance height.

Face Feature Picking (Surface Cycles)

The Pick Solid Faces option on the General tab of the Parallel Lace, Constant Cusp Finishing, Rest Finishing, Pencil Mill and Profiling cycles has been extended to allow Face Features to be used directly without manually creating a boundary.

When Face Features are picked, internally, the cycle machines the solid and uses a silhouette boundary of the selected face features to contain the tool path. The Boundary Tool Control and Offset can be used to adjust the boundary.

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Hole cycles - Void Optimisation

The Hole Cycle can now adjust the feedrate when a void region is detected.

Where solid geometry and Current Stock are in use and voids or intersecting holes are found in the hole cycle path, the cycle will allow automatic adjustment of feedrates as the tool passes through those voids. The cycle output will always be longhand for these holes. Feed changes are made when the intersecting hole gives a complete void across the diameter of the hole being cut; partial intersections do not affect feeds.

Three new modifiers have been added to the Depth tab to control this feature:

Void Safe Distance - The distance to stand off the void re-entry point.

Void Entry Depth - The void re-entry depth to which the 'Entry Feed' will be applied.

Void Feed Adjustment % - The feedrate through the void (non cutting), expressed as a percentage of cycle feedrate.

These settings are only available when Clearance Associated to is set to Use Current Stock.

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Simultaneous & two-step indexing support (MPM milling)

A new Simultaneous Move field has been added to the Index dialog - General tab which, when checked, allows index to move both axes simultaneously:

When enabled, both Rotary Axes move simultaneously to the final angle. The output will consist of one Index call where the output of both Rotary Axes is at the same line.

When not enabled, the primary Rotary Axis moves first and then the secondary one. The output will contain two calls to index output.

Note: Only available when the Support Simultaneous Indexing option in the Code Wizard Machine Parameters is enabled.

Feature Find - Relocated Holes

When a model is reloaded, Hole Features will be flagged as Changed if the position or geometry has changed.

For this release, we have introduced a new Relocated reload notification indicating that a Hole Feature has moved position, but is geometrically the same. This means that any cycles applied to that feature are still valid but fixtures may need to be adjusted. If the Hole Feature has changed then, geometrically, it is different and probably requires the cycles / tooling to be edited.

MEG Holders support for Five Axis collision checking

Milling Holders defined as MEG graphics can now be used in Five Axis cycles (Five Axis and Advanced Five Axis) for collision checking in the same way as CSV holders. They will also work for the Fixture avoidance.

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Move Home / Toolchange

New Comment and Stop Type modifiers have been added to the Move to Home and Move to Toolchange dialogs:

Comment - Allows you to specify the text that appears in the 'tooltip', for the Synchronise instructions in the Sequence Window.

Stop Type - Allows you to define the spindle stop before the synchronisation (None, Program or Optional).

Machine Mating Location for Vices in Fixture Manager

We have added XYZ Machine Mating Location modifiers for Vice Fixtures.

Setting any of the X, Y or Z Machine Mating Location modifiers will override the automatic fixture placement when creating a machining sequence:

A Datum Marker shows where the fixture graphics origin is located.

XYZ values are from this origin; a Location Orb shows the point where the vice will be mated to the machine.

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Wire Cycle Advanced Controls

The Wire cycle now displays the picking buttons along the top of the dialog, as seen in other Edgecam cycles . The picking controls are also present in the sequence browser.

Four specific Wire picking functions are available:

1. Tag - Multiple tagging. 2. Corner Relief - 2 Axis Wire Cycle only. 3. Technology - Technology adjustment on toolpath

elements. 4. M Code - Miscellaneous NC output at specific

toolpath positions.

Wire Post Processor for Agie Charmilles CutX00 machine range

A new Post Processor (accutx00.ucp) has been added to support the new Agie Charmilles Cut range of machines (Cut 200 300 and 400):

Technology for these machines is provided through a third party application provided by Agie Charmilles.

EDM Expert, which can be obtained from Agie Charmilles, must be installed on your PC.

An EDM Expert button has been added to the Technology tab providing access to this application.

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Wire - Move cycle

A new Move cycle has been introduced for this release:

Use this cycle to move around protrusions, clamps or to define a cut path following a series of positional picks.

A Move command in the sequence can be actioned any number of times depending on the overall sequence of cuts.

It is possible within a Move command to adjust the guide heights to avoid collision with an up-stand, for example.

You can specify on which cuts you want the moves to be applied.

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Threads in Simulator

Simulation of thread cutting on a lathe is now possible. New Turn Threading options have been added to the Display tab of the Options dialog:

No Thread - The thread cutting is not simulated, to save time (as in previous versions).

True Thread - An accurate representation of the cutting is generated. This option does require a considerable amount of processing within Simulator.

Synthetic Thread - A pictorial representation will be used unless the pitch exceeds the Maximum Synthetic Lead set.

Maximum Synthetic Lead - When Synthetic Thread is selected, you can specify a value that, when exceeded, a True Thread will be used.

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Slotting Tool

For this release, we have implemented a Slotting Tool which will enable the user to quickly create machinable slot features.

Sketch 'Constrain all' Tool

To help the user quickly create sketches and subsequent solid models we have introduced a Constrain all button within the Sketch Analysis dialog. It will be particularly useful for constraining sketches extracted from DXF/DWG files before turning them into solid models.

Constrain all uses geometric and dimensional constraints to fully define the sketch.

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Dimensions on Model View

We have implemented a method of viewing sketch and model dimensions within the model view in EWS. This allows the user, at any stage of the design process, to quickly determine the dimensions used to construct the model:

1. Left mouse click once on the command icon in the

Storyboard and a greyed out arrow ( ) will be displayed next to the command icon.

2. Left mouse click again on the command icon and

the arrow will now be live ( ). The dimensions will be visible on the model view.

3. These dimensions can be modified by double-clicking on the dimension and, when the new dimension is accepted, the model will be updated.

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Wire Feature Creation

For this release, we have implemented a wire feature creation tool for EWS aimed at creating Wire Erosion models.

Ruled internal and external surfaces can be produced within EWS and the wire feature can then be found in the Edgecam Wire environment.

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Third Party Model View

For this release, we have implemented the viewing of third party models within EWS enabling fixtures / tooling to be designed around the part which is to be manufactured.

There are two main ways in which this can be used:

Construct EWS models around the third party model.

Design and construct EWS models based on the third party model.

Third party models from the following CAD systems can be viewed in EWS:

Part Modeler.

SOLIDWORKS.

SpaceClaim.

SolidEdge.

Kompas.

Inventor.

Creo/Pro Engineer.

CATIA.

NX.

STEP.

STP.

IGES.

Rotation of the model part on the screen

It is now possible, when viewing an EWS model / sketch, to rotate it around the X, Y or Z axis.

Hold down the right mouse button and drag to rotate the Model / Sketch view. To lock the rotation so that it is only around an axis parallel to the X, Y or Z Axis, hold down the 'X', 'Y' or 'Z' key while rotating.

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Dynamic manipulation of the drill depth

It is now possible in EWS to dynamically manipulate the drill depth in the graphics area:

1. Move the mouse cursor over the arrow. 2. Left click and hold down while the mouse cursor

is over the arrow and drag to alter the depth of the drilled hole.

3. The hole depth in the Hole Library dialog will be updated as the arrow is moved.

Zoom extents while editing a solid command and keep the command live

When editing a solid command (from the Storyboard), if the model view is not clear on the screen, double-click the mouse wheel and it will be zoomed to extents and keep the command edit active.

Locale Specific Decimal Separators

We now support a comma as the decimal separator within EWS. This means that users from locales which use the comma as a decimal separator can use EWS without the need to change their computer settings.

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Implementation of a High Contrast colour scheme

To improve visibility of the grid, grid axes and sketch entities, we have implemented a high contrast colour scheme that is automatically set and activated by the background colour.

All entities are now visible regardless of the default background colour selected by the user.

Touchscreen support for EWS

We have now added touchscreen support for EWS enabling you to design and manufacture on your touchscreen device.

Mathematical Functions in Sketching and Model creation

When dimensioning a sketch or model, it is now possible to use mathematical functions ( =∑, +, -, * and /) to define elements of the sketch or model using the Modify Dimension dialog.

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Line Style

For this release, we have implemented a Line Style Tool which will enable you to convert Sketch entities (solid lines used to make a sketch) into Construction entities that can help with sketch definition.

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View Model Enhancements

We have improved the model viewing capabilities within Part Modeler by introducing a Zoom to Cursor option within the System Options ► UI Settings.

When the checkbox is ticked, using the scroll wheel on the mouse will zoom the model/sketch back to the cursor position (Edgecam behaviour).

When the checkbox is not ticked, the scroll wheel on the mouse will zoom the model/sketch back to the centre of the screen.

Rotation of the model part on the screen

It is now possible, when viewing a Part Modeler model, to rotate the solid model around the X, Y or Z axis... (same functionality as Edgecam).

Simply hold down the right mouse button and drag to rotate the model view and then hold down:

The X key to lock the rotation so that it is only around an axis parallel to the X Axis.

The Y key to lock the rotation so that it is only around an axis parallel to the Y Axis.

The Z key to lock the rotation so that it is only around an axis parallel to the Z Axis.

Rotating solid model about a user defined point

A new rotation option has been added for Part Modeler; the ability to rotate about a user defined point on the model (same functionality as Edgecam).

To rotate the model about a point, position the cursor on the desired spot on the model and select this point as the centre of rotation with a right mouse click while holding down the CTRL key. You can then rotate the model about this selected point by holding the right mouse button down whilst dragging the mouse.

The Zoom Extents command will reset the rotation centre back to the middle of the model.

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SolidLink Option for Loading IGES Files

We have now introduced the ability to load IGES models into Part Modeler using SolidLink. As SolidLink is an additional loader it gives the user further flexibility for loading IGES files and the loading options in the SolidLink Translation Settings can be utilised:

Translate Sheet Bodies.

Healing Options - Off.

Healing Options - Heal.

Healing Options - Simplify and Heal.

Note: The previous method for loading IGES files into Part Modeler still exists and has been renamed as Standard (pre 2015 R2). This is the default setting for loading IGES files.

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AUTOMILLTURN Templates

Two new milling configurations have been added (5MILLTURN and 4MILLTURN) which are used in Mill+Turn AUTOMILLTURN templates.

Simultaneous & two-step indexing support (MPM milling)

A Support Simultaneous Indexing option has been added to the Code Wizard Machine Parameters which allows index to move both axes simultaneously. When enabled, the Simultaneous Move option will be available on the Index command in Edgecam.

Support for Lathes with Sub Spindles Offset from X Centreline

It is now possible to state an X location other than zero for sub spindle home position.

www.edgecam.com


m&h Probing

m&h Probing and Renishaw Probing can now be selected:

In the wizard, when specifying the Machine configuration.

Using Configure ► Add Device.

When enabled, the Function and Print commands on the General tab of the Probing cycles in Edgecam can be used to select what the probing should do, for example, Update a datum, Measure or Check size.

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Rotary Mode - Tool below the Centreline

A Polar Switch Set CY=0 option has been added to the Code Wizard Machine Parameters which should be checked when either:

There is the possibility of Rotary Mode being initiated with the tool below the centreline.

Mode change (Planar<>Rotary) is made with the C axis out of the 0 position.

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New System Variable for Simultaneous Indexing

One new system variable (INDEXSIMULTANEOUS) has been added to the following macro in the Code Generator:

Milling Macro Reference (MACRO 43 - INDEX PALLET).

New System Variable for Mount Description

One new system variable (MOUNTDESC) has been added to the following macros in the Code Generator:

Milling Macro Reference (MACRO 15 - TOOLCHANGE).

Turning Macro Reference (MACRO 15 - TOOLCHANGE).

C Axis Macro Reference (MACRO 165 - TOOLCHANGE).

New Turning Macro

One new Turning Macro has been added to the Code Generator:

Turning Macro Reference (MACRO 268 - SPINDLE DOCKING).

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Other Products

Adveon Tool Library

A new version of Adveon is included on the DVD for 2015 R2 providing:

Support for Edgecam 2015 R1 and R2.

New translations - Czech, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Russian and Japanese.

Improved Sandvik catalog data.

Adveon database now running on SQL 2014 Express.

Adveon writes to ToolStore database and support folder as set in EdgecamToolStore Administrator; the Bridge Configurator is no longer used to set the target ToolStore and support folder.

A Quick Start guide is available in the Help section.

A What’s New section is included in the Help.

Still for Rotational tools only.

Please see the Adveon section of the Edgecam Installation Guide for details.

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PartXplore

PartXplore is a CAD viewer for reading, analysing and sharing 2D and 3D CAD files without having to rely on the original CAD application and provides the following benefits:

Flexibility - Enables users to build virtual unified prototypes or 3D models from files imported from various CAD applications. Users can work on model set up and improvements before committing time and resources to creating a real prototype.

Measurements - Features a wide range of 2D and 3D measurement functions that are highly accurate due to the high precision B-rep 3D model employed.

Annotation - Offers a wide range of annotation functions. Users can convey their ideas, observations, instructions and change requests easily and quickly.

Analyse - Comes with a full range of specialist analysis tools which can be used to help make quotes, diagnostics and assembly notes.

Animation - Includes a fully functional animation kernel allowing users to generate exploded views or animated assembly movements.

Documentation - Users can generate screen captures to illustrate technical documents and assembly sheets.

Publication - Allows users to easily share their CAD models throughout the entire design and manufacturing chain.

Collaborate - Enables users to communicate 3D parts and assemblies to sub-contractors, customers or colleagues using a standalone,lightweight application that can be easily transmitted via the Internet.

Notes:

1. PartXplore is a separate installation program that can be launched from the EdgecamDVD menu. It is not installed automatically with Edgecam.

2. The Edgecam Reseller Software license includes full access to PartXplore (System with Modules):

The PartXplore System includes the import of DXF, IGES, STL, SOLIDWORKS, Solid Edge, Inventor, VDA, Rhino files and the export of DXF and STL files.

The PartXplore Advanced Import Pack includes the import of CATIA V4, V5, V6, NX, Creo Parametric files.

The PartXplore Export Pack includes the export of IGES, STEP and WorkNC format files.

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Licensing

For pricing details on all of the new licenses please contact your Edgecam Salesman.

New - Ultimate 5-Axis Simultaneous Milling Licence

A new Ultimate 5-Axis Simultaneous Milling Module licence is introduced in 2015 R2, the details are:

Name: Ultimate 5-Axs Simultaneous Milling

Product Code: EN050-U

Prerequisite licenses: Advanced 5-Axis Simultaneous Milling.

Changes to the 5-Axis Simultaneous Milling license:

The prerequisite licenses for the Advanced 5-Axis Simultaneous Milling license are now:

Edgecam Advanced Milling, Edgecam Ultimate Milling

Edgecam Advanced Turning, Edgecam Ultimate Turning

Edgecam Advanced Production, Edgecam Ultimate Production

In previous Edgecam releases, the prerequisite licenses were the 4-Axis Simultaneous Milling and 5-Axis Simultaneous Milling licenses.

The Multi Blade machining option has been moved up to the new Ultimate 5-Axis Simultaneous Milling license.

New Wire Module Licence

A new Wire Module licence is introduced in 2015 R2, the details are:

Name: Wire Module

Product Code: ENPWE-M

Prerequisite licenses: All Milling and Production licenses.

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New – PartXplore Licences

The licensing for the new PartXplore CAD Viewer comprises:

System license

Name: PartXplore

Product Code: ENPXP-0

Prerequisite licenses: None

Module licenses

Name: PartXplore Advanced Import Pack

Product Code: EN3DR-I

Prerequisite licenses: PartXplore (ENPXP-0)

Name: PartXplore Export Pack

Product Code: ENEXP-0

Prerequisite licenses: PartXplore (ENPXP-0)

Edgecam Probing licence renamed to Renishaw Probing

The Edgecam Probing module licence has been renamed to Renishaw Probing. The product code remains ENPRB-0.

The new m&h Probing is included in all Milling and Production licenses free of charge. (Probing is Milling Only).

Solid Machinist and loading of STEP files

The ability to load STEP files has been added to the Solid Machinist for CATIA V5 and Solid Machinist for Creo licenses.

Adveon

Access to Adveon is now included in the Edgecam Educational license.

www.edgecam.com


Maintenance Database Report

For a full list of maintenance items resolved in Edgecam 2015 R1, please refer to the Maintenance Database Report.

www.edgecam.com


New Features in Version 2015 R1

Below is an overview of new features and enhancements in the last release.

For a summary of new features in previous releases, please visit the History section of the Edgecam website.


New Rough Waveform Turning Cycle

Using waveform technology, we have developed a new Rough Waveform Turning cycle for round inserts that maintains a constant cutting load.

New Engraving Cycle

The new Engraving cycle introduces the ability to shape geometry corners and bottlenecks with a taper or ballnose tool.

Ordering of Profiling and Roughing

New Optimise Path and Lace Bandwidth options have been added to the Control tab of the Roughing and Profiling cycles:

Optimise Path - This allows the user to select a number of ordering patterns.

Lace Bandwidth - A tolerance value that allows the profiles in a lacing pattern row or column to be misaligned by the specified bandwidth.

Picking Solid Faces (Surface Cycles)

A new Pick Solid Faces option has been added to the General tab of the Parallel Lace, Constant Cusp Finishing, Rest Finishing, Pencil Mill and Profiling cycles.

When selected, the individual face features can be selected and the entire model will be protected.

http://www.edgecam.com/releasehistory

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Profiling Cycle

The Profiling Cycle now has additional options to protect the part, fixtures etc. Some of these new safety features default to ON. It is possible that this will affect the behaviour of parts generated by old strategies where those options were not set and it is recommended that such strategies be updated to control the new options.

Rotary Axial Milling

A new Active Axis option has been added to the Select Mill Mode dialog which allows you to select which axis is active during rotary axial machining.

Note: Only available when the Cartesian output in Rotary Milling machine parameter in Code wizard is Off.

Finish Turning Cycle Toolpath Termination

The Finish Turn Toolpath can now be restricted by entering X Z termination values.

Toolpath is removed beyond the specified termination settings.

Option to only find Front Turn Features

We have added a new Front Features Only option to the Turn tab which, when checked, will only find front turn features; the back turn features will not be found if this is checked.

This is typically for single spindle lathes where the front and back of a part are machined in separate setups.

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Selective Synchronisation

A new Turret Selection option has been added to the Synchronising Turrets dialog which allows the synchronisation of specific turrets, leaving the non-synchronised ones to work freely.

Note: Only available when the machine has more than two turrets.

Additional CPLs in Turning

When creating a new Turning Sequence using Lathe Setup, additional CPLs are created to aid the manufacturing process:

For Main Spindle - Back Inv Turn and Back Reverse Axial; these CPLs are the same as Inv Turn and Reverse Axial but with the datum shifted to the back of the component.

For Sub Spindle - SubSpindleReverseAxial and SubSpindleRadial; these CPLs are located at the front face of the sub spindle part.

Gauge Value Adjustment

A new Rotate gauge with orientation changes option has been added to the Preferences.

This option works in conjunction with the Tooling Utilities Holder Origin setting Gauge Datum. An ATC ToolStore tool may be defined in an orientation other than axial with the X&Z gauge values set relative to the load angle. When this tool is loaded into Edgecam, onto an ATC B axis turret, the gauge values are calculated to a load angle of B0, as expected by Edgecam.

Additionally, the user may need to change the set point, for example, from orthogonal to centre primary. In this case, the XZ gauge values will be recalculated in order to ensure the tool graphic remains fixed in its holder. In previous versions, they could become separated.

Enhanced Wire Feature Creation

The wire feature algorithm has been enhanced for this release and includes a new Deviation Tolerance modifier to give added control over which wire features are found.

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EWS Polygon Tool

We have introduced a Polygon tool within the sketching tools that will allow users to create a 2D polygon by locating a centre position and entering the number of sides and a radius.

This new tool will allow a multiple sided Polygon to be constructed with the following options:

1. Number of sides - from 3 sides upwards. 2. The ability to control the position of the Polygon from

the vertex. 3. Define the size of the Polygon by a radius value (value

entered into dialog) that can be inscribed or circumscribed. Alternatively, you can use the mouse cursor to define the size of the polygon.

4. Inscribed Circle places the vertices on the circumference and when unchecked (Circumscribed) constructs to the tangents of the circumference.

EWS Linear Pattern and Circular Pattern (solids)

We have now added a Linear Pattern (Linear Array) and a Circular Pattern (Circular Array) for solids.

This will now enable EWS users to:

1. Create copies of solid features such as hole patterns. 2. Create Circular feature patterns. 3. Create Linear feature patterns.

EWS - Internal and External Threads

It is now possible to create internal and external threads within EWS.

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EWS - Chamfer and Blend Options on Extrusion Dialog

We have enhanced the Extrusion dialog to include Chamfer and/or Blend options on the start/end of an extrusion (Add or Cut).

Simply select either Chamfer or Blend for the top edge or the bottom edge of the extruded shape. The new chamfers and/or blends, once created, will be placed in the Storyboard and will be independent of the Extrude command.

Note: It is not possible to edit the Blend or Chamfer when editing the extrusion within which they were created.

EWS Move Tool

We have introduced a 2D Move tool to assist sketch construction.

The Move tool can also be used when manipulating DXF/DWG profiles for constructing a solid. The Move tool consists of:

1. Translation - allows the X and Y movement of entities. 2. Rotation - allows the rotational movement of entities

about a defined point. 3. Mirror - allows moving of entities about a defined

mirror line or about the centre of the profile.

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DXF/DWG File Import

It is now possible to import DXF/DWG 2D files into EWS so that they can be converted into solid models.

Sketch Plane Creation

With the previous release of EWS, it was not possible to place features on curved faces exactly where the user wanted them.

We have now introduced Sketch Plane creation that can be applied to the solid model and will allow more complex models to be produced. The Sketch Plane creation will allow users to:

1. Create user defined Sketch Planes on curved faces and constrain them as required.

2. Create user defined Sketch Planes on planar faces. When starting a sketch, simply click on an edge or vertex and the sketch plane dialog will appear; constrain as required.

3. Manipulate the Sketch Plane sketch area (apply offset, change angles and rotate).

4. Edit existing Sketch Planes as required.

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Workflow Enhancements

Multiple Machining Setups for Milling and Turning in Workflow

It is now possible to have multiple machine setups for Milling and Turning in Workflow:

The component, in-process stock and fixtures can be passed from one machining sequence to another.

One setup for each machining sequence.

To machine a component completely can often require multiple setups. For example, on a vertical milling machine with no indexing capability, a separate setup would be required to machine a part from each direction, as shown.

Workflow Create Turning Sequence has been enhanced to allow for a second end setup; so as to be able to machine the back end of the component; this is typically for single spindle machines.

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Wire Now Available in the Workflow Environment

Wire is now available when using the Workflow interface:

Creating a new Wire part will put the system in XY environment and load the Wire ribbon Interface.

The Wire defaults will be automatically selected and made active.

A solid will be opened with the Wire defaults / Wire ribbon active.

Wire ribbon and defaults will remain active until a New Mill or New Turn part is selected or an existing Mill or Turn part is loaded.

Note: With Wire mode active, the automatic part alignment is temporarily disabled.

Workflow Strategy Improvements

Strategy Improvements to aid the demonstration of Workflow:

Chamfering for Open Mill / Open Pocket features.

Improved handling of countersunk holes.

Improved handling of counterbored holes.

New preference to force plunge cutting for counterbored hole features.

New preferences to control profiling cut increment and lead parameters.

If waveform roughing fails because the tool has too large a diameter to apply offset, concentric is used instead.

The Workflow interface now allows Material to be set to None; when selected, no tools are filtered out by material. If a tool is selected which has a default technology defined (for all materials) this will be used, otherwise the strategy will set default speed / feed and cut increment.

Software no longer attempts to write job instructions to the toolkit when applying strategies providing a major performance improvement if this option was checked in toolkit assistant.

Milling and Drilling strategies support second operation.

Turn / Bore thread strategies now consider end condition to determine lead out.

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Self-Centering Vices

We have introduced support for Self-Centering vices, where both jaws move and the part remains in the middle.

The MEG files are exported from Edgecam into Fixture Manager in the same way as standard vices: base and two jaws, with the CPL in the middle of the jaw where it should mate with the part.

A new Self-Centering option has been added to Fixture Manager.

Note: You can no longer define 'Fixed' jaws and both become moving jaws.

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Thread Database Editor

A new Thread Database Editor is now available (Settings program) that allows users to add their own custom threads.

The new thread database editor allows users to:

1. Add new <USER> thread standards (that will be used by Edgecam and Part Modeler)

2. Add and copy threads in existing standards (part of the Edgecam installation)

3. Edit and delete threads added by users.

The main benefit of the thread database editor is that the user does not need Microsoft Access to edit the Thread database.

Move Buttons in Workflow Component Setup

Previously, using the Move Buttons, it was only possible to move the complete part,stock and fixture assembly around the machine table.

It is now also possible to adjust the position of the part and stock only, for example, to adjust the position of the part and stock in the vice.

After a sequence has been started, the Move check boxes are now all active:

With Part, Stock and Fixture checked, the complete assembly is moved around the machine table.

With only Part and Stock checked, the part and stock can be repositioned in the fixture.

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Interface Enhancements

Workflow is now the default

The Workflow Ribbon interface has become the default for this release. Therefore, when a PPF file is double clicked in the browser, Workflow will launch.

The Launcher has been improved:

1. The top left area will now always start with the Ribbon interface.

2. Applications have been simplified 3. The Edgecam toolbar interface is still available using this

icon. 4. Settings have been amalgamated.

Themes

This release introduces the ability to change the ribbon bar for a Theme:

Backup Theme and Restore Theme - Modify the Ribbon bar, save it to a backup and restore it if needed.

Default - Return to the default ribbon.

Users with an Advanced Customisation license can also:

Save Theme - Save a ribbon bar to a Theme name; the name will appear in the drop-down menu.

Remove Theme - Remove an existing Theme.

Export Theme - After creating your own Theme, you can export all or part of the Ribbon Bar.

Import Theme - Import a Theme which has been exported.

Combine Ribbon and Strategies in a Theme - If a set of Strategies are placed in the Theme folder, Edgecam will display the customised ribbon and run the Strategies in that theme. This gives the ability to quickly select between themes designed for different part types.

Share a Theme across a Network - The linked files are on a server and the Theme ribbon bar needs to be exported. The linked files will point to a network location.

Share a Theme across individual PCs - The Theme and all the linked files, including any files used by those linked files, need to be exported and imported.

Add a Splash Screen - Each Theme can have its own individual splash screen. This can provide a visual reminder of which theme is active in addition to marketing opportunities.

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Search Option on Customise The Ribbon

We have added a Search box to help find commands in the Customise The Ribbon option.

Macro Page simplified

We have simplified the Macro page and it now remembers the names of the last Run files.

Launcher - Recently Used Files Options

New options have been added to the Recently Used Files lists on the Launcher:

Open the File Location.

Remove from this list.

Copy full path to clipboard.

Copy file name to clipboard.

Note: In the recently used Comms Setup files, Remove from this list is greyed out because the list reflects a directory structure.

Fast Render for Inventor option

A new Fast Render for Inventor option has been added to the Solids tab of Preferences.

This option controls whether the model is loaded using Inventor facets tolerance or Edgecam's display tolerance which can affect the speed of loading.

Line Thickness

A new Line Thickness option has been added to the Interface tab of Preferences.

This option controls line thickness:

Unchecked is 1 pixel.

Checked is 2 pixels.

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Vertex Matching Offset option

We have introduced a Vertex Matching Offset option to the Face-To Face Loft procedure which offsets the matched vertices around the profile. Typically, on more complex Face-To-Face Lofts, an undesired twist is normally given as a solution; the new option allows you to increment the connection to the next vertex until the desired loft is obtained.

Decimal Places in Constraints

The user now has the option to set the number of decimal places displayed in constraints using the Dimension parameter on the Units\Grid tab of the System options dialog (Tools>Options>System).

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Coordinate Entry dialog

It is now possible to type X, Y or Z on the keyboard to display the Coordinate Entry dialog within Part Modeler (once a sketch command has been selected).

Enhanced Helix command

The Helix command (3D Construction>3D Wireframe>Helix) has been enhanced to remove confusion when defining the Pitch of the helix. The following modifiers have been introduced and clarified:

Pitch Ratio - The pitch as a ratio.

Pitch - The width of one complete helix turn (in mm or inch).

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Support for Cartesian Output

Cartesian output in Rotary Milling and Cartesian output in Rotary Holes options have been added to the Code Wizard Machine Parameters enabling Rotary Axial Milling and Rotary Axial Canned Holes to be output as Cartesian co-ordinates.

Ability to Emulate Part Coordinates / Vector in 5 Axis Toolpath

A new Show Five Axis Moves as Linear option has been added to the Code Wizard Machine Parameters which will enable the 5 Axis cycle to show and simulate 5 Axis angular feed moves.


New System Variables for Multiple Turret machines

Five new system variables (THISTURRET, SYNC0, SYNC1, SYNC2 and SYNC3) have been added to the following macro in the Code Generator:

Turning Macro Reference (23 - SYNCHRONISE ).

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Wire Simulation

To aid visualisation of the wire cutting processes, we have added support for wire inside simulator:

Simulates wire toolpaths Shows the wire held between the upper and lower guides.

Sequence browser Shows a breakdown of the wire cycle listing the key stages:

Move Start, Thread Wire, 2 Axis/4 Axis Profile (Cut #), Tag Removal (Cut #), Program Stop, Cut Wire, Move Home.

Profile Cuts and Tag Removal cuts are listed separately in the sequence for convenient identification.

Displays XYUV coordinates / Taper Angle T (values are modal). Indicates the amount of wire used and/or the cycle time depending on technology settings.

Unique colours Each cut # is displayed in a unique colour to graphically indicate the number of passes applied to that feature.

Stop At functions

Thread Wire and Cut Wire Stop At functions implemented specifically for wire.

Visibility Transparent stock mode enables you to view the internal movements.

Note: Existing parts need to be regenerated.

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Toolstore Enhancements

Adveon Tool Library (Pre-release)

A new version of Adveon is included on the DVD for 2015R1

Please see the Adveon section of the Edgecam Installation Guide for details.

Support for Multiple Turrets

It is now possible to define the turret on which the tool is placed using the new Turret option.

This setting will be transferred to Edgecam Review Toolkit where it can be edited, if required.

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Gauge Value Adjustment

A new Rotate Gauge option has been added to the Preferences.

This option works in conjunction with the Holder Origin setting Gauge Datum; with both set, any changes to tool orientation or tool set point will result in the XZ gauge values being recalculated. This ensures that the tool assembly (holder graphic and tool graphic) remain fixed together irrespective of the tool orientation or set point. In previous versions, they could become separated.

Non Cutting Tool

A new Non Cutting Tool option has been added to the General tab of the Tool dialog.

This can be used to identify tools that do not actually cut. i.e. Brushes, knurling tools etc.

Edgecam Toolchange has the corresponding No Cut modifier.

It can be used to filter out tools for Strategies and, in the future, not report collisions in Simulator.

CoroGuide Support

Edgecam no longer supports the CoroGuide Import option in ToolStore. This has been superseded by Adveon.

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Toolstore Administrator Enhancements

Active Database on the Network

When changing the active ToolStore database, if the active database is on the network and not in the local PC, the background of the Database field will be blue.

Licensing

CLS

If CLS is not running when a licensed application such as Edgecam is run, it is now automatically started. This means that, provided that a valid license is available, the licensed application will run without the need to manually start CLS.

Additions to the Advanced Customisation License

Users with an Advanced Customisation license have access to the new Theme management tools.

The Advanced Customisation license is free of charge and available on request. The functionality provided on the Advanced Customisation license is only available while the licenses are on an active maintenance contract.

Licensing of new functionality

Rough Waveform Turning Cycle

The new Rough Waveform Turning cycle is available in:

Standard, Advanced and Ultimate Turning.

Standard, Advanced and Ultimate Production.

Engraving Cycle

The new Engraving cycle is available in:

Essential *, Standard, Advanced and Ultimate Milling.

Standard, Advanced and Ultimate Turning.

Essential *, Standard, Advanced and Ultimate Production. * Only the Centreline strategy is included in the Essential licenses.

Documents

What’s New in - help.edgecam.comhelp.edgecam.com/Content/Online_Help/en/2015R2/PDF/whatsnew.pdf · What’s New in Edgecam 2015 R2 This document highlights new product features