Radan 2014 Released for Sheet Metal

Vero Software has released Radan 2014, following a successful Beta program. The latest software version incorporates new and enhanced functionality, including 3D workflow improvements, safety measures to prevent tipping on flat-bed lasers, and strides in common cutting on punches, and support for cluster and asymmetric wheel tools.

Simulation and time calculation have improved by being moved away from NC verification to the area where sequences are defined. "Whether a defined sequence is used automatically, manually or interactively, the simulation now comes from there. In previous releases, the user had access to far less information than the software actually holds about the tools, the machine and the accelerations that are possible," said product manager Olaf Korner. "Changing the location of these two functions means that every machine tool using the simulator benefits from the improved graphics, increased feedback and overall knowledge that the sequence mode has."

Enhancements to 3D Workflow have reduced the time taken to get parts to the nest. Previously several manual steps were required including unfolding the model, saving as a part and adding the right quantity to the schedule. Now all sheet metal, whether single or assemblies, is unfolded and added to the nest area automatically. This reduces the number of mouse clicks for single parts from around 26, down to just three or four.

A "scrap internal profiles" function has been introduced to avoid head collisions on flat-bed lasers, and is achieved by cutting profiles that are in danger of tipping into smaller pieces before cutting the final shape. Instead of cutting it in one action, Radan now cuts a grid across it first, and the small parts of the grid simply fall away when the final profile is cut.

Radan 2014 adopts the same common cutting strategy for punch presses as that used for profiling machines. It allows for common cut nests to be created automatically, meaning the user can choose, for example, how many parts form a common cut island, reducing the sheet's instability. Tagging for common cut parts has also been improved, the company says.

For more information, visit Vero Software.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company's website.