Automation

AutoFlat Express is an automated way to create SMP sheet metal part models from standard 2D DXF part files. The program works with DXF, IGES, MI and (using the optional ACIS translator) SAT files. Once the files have been converted into SMP part models, they can be processed into the appropriate NC program to produce the finished parts. The program can be configured to stop at various places in the process to give you greater control, or it can be set to process automatically all the way through to code.

AutoMate Express automatically imports batches of flats from your present software or any other source and processes them all the way to writing NC code, so that programming these parts is quick and efficient. You can even set AutoMate Express to run unattended -- your parts can be ready and waiting for you when you return to work. With AutoMate Express, you can select a list of CAD files (as few as two or as many as 1,000) to import and take them all the way through to posting, or stop at any point before that.

Click here to see a viewlet about AutoMate Express.

Cross Posting helps you get the most out of your machine tools. A part that has been programmed on one punching machine can be run on another punching machine with little or no programming required for the second machine. Simply select which machine you wish to use and the SMP/IS software loads the appropriate machine information and capabilities. This is extremely helpful and saves time and money for companies using a variety of machine tools from different manufacturers.
Click here to see a viewlet about cross posting.

NestMaster true-shape nesting is designed to nest sheet metal parts quickly, maximize material utilization, decrease turnaround time, and increase profits. NestMaster can read in a comma-delimited ASCII file to generate a list of parts to nest. This file can be created in an MRP system or any other software.
Click here to see a viewlet about NestMaster for Punch

Click here to see a viewlet about NestMaster for Laser

AutoNest is a schedule-based, automatic nesting routine for rectangular shapes, designed as a cost-effective approach to JIT manufacturing requirements. AutoNest can combine sub-nests and individual parts to maximize material usage while satisfying production quantity demands.

Click here to see a viewlet about AutoNest.

G.E.M.S. (Graphical Editor for Modeling Sheet Metal) uses Associativity to stretch or shrink a part, including the tool path for punch or cutting, eliminating the need to reprogram.

Auto-dimensioning of flats which may be plotted out for inspection purposes.