Software for 5-axis machining that simplifies programming by enabling users to program a 5-axis job as though it were 3-axis has been enhanced to produce smoother toolpaths.

Auto 5, Sescoi's unique approach to 5-axis machining, has been enhanced to produce smoother toolpaths in WorkNC Version 18. Auto 5 enables users to program a 5-axis job as though it were 3-axis. The software interprets the 3-axis toolpaths and automatically changes them to 5-axis within the limitations of the machine tool.

By using Auto 5, 5-axis machining becomes a simple programming task, demystifying it and bringing it within the reach of every engineering company.

The advantages of 5-axis machining, using shorter and more rigid cutters, reaching deeper parts of the job and machining undercuts can all be enjoyed by users of Auto 5.

Now with the improvements in Version 18 the toolpath generated is considerably smoother, reducing irregular movement and producing a visibly better surface finish.

To achieve the enhancements, Sescoi has developed new sensitivity parameters which control the level of reaction to convex movements.

A slider bar allows detailed adjustments to be made, which in turn alter the smoothness and quality of the toolpath to best suit the part being machined.

Settings within Auto 5 include constant to the axis of machining, constant repulsive, and constant attracting.

By utilising the different settings to convert 3-axis toolpaths, users can obtain a high level of control over the 5-axis toolpaths generated by Auto 5, enabling them to optimise cutting methods and conditions.

During the conversion process, WorkNC Auto 5 considers the machine's kinematics, avoiding collisions and respecting angular limitations, automatically introducing flip movements to make it possible to safely reach as much of the job as possible without overloading the machining centre.

The concept of Sescoi's revolutionary Auto 5 system is part of the company's aim to make the most complex machining tasks as easy as possible.

The new developments in Version 18 make successful machining in 5-axis quicker, safer, and to a higher quality standard through toolpath fluidity.

* About Sescoi - for nearly 20 years, Sescoi has developed software solutions renowned for their quality, reliability, ease of use, and automatic features, as well as for world-class technical support and service.

Headquartered in France, Sescoi has established sales and support offices across Europe, Asia and the United States in order to serve thousands of local and international customers from a range of industries.

Sescoi's software solutions include the following.

* WorkNC, an automatic CAM/CAD solution for 2- through to 5-axis milling, featuring the award-winning 'Auto 5' module which automatically converts 3-axis toolpaths into simultaneous 5-axis toolpaths * WorkNC-CAD, a uniform CAD solution for the entire manufacturing process WorkPLAN, an integrated management solution for custom manufacturers that brings together company-wide data and resources enhancing knowledge, responsiveness and efficiency across the company.