| 
Delcam’s ArtCAM JewelSmith software allows
extremely realistic images to be created
|
The most important change is the inclusion of a “Component Library” containing a selection of gems, settings and shanks that can be used to build up the design. The software provides constant access to the overall design as it is built up from the component models. In addition, assemblies can be created of groups of components and added to the design in the required orientation. All assemblies and components can be manipulated in 3D space, making positioning of design elements or gem settings around a ring both easy and intuitive.
Assemblies can be subtracted from ArtCAM models to create exactly matching sockets and recesses. For example, an unusual gem setting could be fitted to a standard shank by directly ‘punching-out’ the setting assembly from the shank model.
Once the design has been approved, ArtCAM JewelSmith can produce toolpaths for 3-axis and rotary 4-axis CNC machining of individual items or of tooling for mass production. Alternatively, designs can be output as STL files for rapid prototyping.
ArtCAM JewelSmith also makes it easier to manufacture more complex objects by machining the piece several times from different directions. This process has been automated with a new “Machining Wizard” to make it as simple as possible to create the appropriate toolpaths for each set-up, including rotary passes if the user’s machine tool supports the technique. For example, it is now much easier to machine the front and back of a piece in one continuous operation.
Additional machining strategies have been added to support the latest equipment for internal machining of rings. These techniques allow material to be machined out from inside the model, either to add extra details or to reduce the metal content of the item. Time-consuming hand finishing would previously have been needed in these cases.
Improvements have also been made to the realistic rendering, which allows fully-assembled ring designs, with gems set in place, to be viewed dynamically on-screen for customer approval before manufacturing begins. The software can now also create a series of animation frames of a finished assembly. Alternatively, it can create an HTML model viewer that can be e-mailed to the client or incorporated on a website without releasing the original model files. |
