New CAM software for Laser machines increases design possibilities while reducing machining times

GF Machining Solutions has released version 1.12.5 of its CAM software for laser texturing, engraving and micromachining. This release includes two new major features: 3DCurves^TM and FlexiBlast^TM, incorporated within LaserDesign^TM technology.

The first new functionality, called 3DCurves^TM, allows users to significantly increase their design capabilities whilst eliminating potential undesirable optical effects on laser engraved parts.

3DCurves^TM provides an innovative approach when creating fine line patterns and textures. Users no longer need to go through the traditional hatching process based on a grayscale bitmap, and thanks to 3Dcurves^TMcan now engrave directly with a single continuous laser path following each individual polyline.

This new technology delivers significant advantages for the production of textures with high precision lines, for example, for plastic parts used in the ICT or the automotive industries, or for directly engraved parts in the watchmaking or jewellery industries.

3DCurves^TM allows customers to create unprecedented designs applied in 2D with GF Machining Solutions’ LASER P range of machines. It also offers the possibility to create curves virtually on complex 3D parts and mould tools and inserts with the LASER S range of machines.

The technology uses polylines as opposed to images, which are limited by their bitmap resolution, to orientate the Laser vectors in the local coordinate system.

FlexiBlast^TM builds on GF Machining Solutions’ signature blasting capabilities by combining them with a grayscale image, controlling its intensity.

For each individual pixel, 2¹⁶ shades of grey can be applied, each corresponding to a specific blasting intensity. This feature offers the possibility to render high-definition photo-realistic images on any material.

Moreover, it gives users the ability to increase the depth perception with very shallow textures, which reduces production time drastically without any hardware modification. Fading textures and morphing can be achieved without altering the surface geometry.

FlexiBlast^TM can be used to apply a finishing layer to complement LaserDesign^TM textures.

FlexiBlast^TM offers advantages such as high definition with photo-realistic rendering, the creation of very fine textures with a significant rendering of depth and shallower textures for easier plastic de-moulding and faster machining times. Mould cleaning after plastic injection becomes effortless since less plastic remains on the mould after the injection process has been completed ensuring higher productivity and process efficiency.

GF Machining Solutions’ new software version offers customers a new perspective on the laser toolpath and the definition of their machining strategy – and allows them to use optical properties to create textures, instead of carving out material.

Ultimately, gains in productivity and texture uniformity can be achieved.

Upgrading from the software version 1.11.X or 1.12.0 to software version 1.12.5 is free of charge for customers.