One nesting software for all your major profile cutting and punching machines.

In This Edition:

• Product Feature: SigmaBEND
• 2010 Trade Shows
• Tech Tip: SolidWorks Import
• New Feature: SigmaTUBE's Beveling 5 Axis Solution
• Upcoming Trade Events in Florida and Alabama

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SigmaBEND is an advanced software solution for press brake machines that maximizes the speed, quality and flexibility of press brake machines and offers a full 3-D simulation of the entire bending process. SigmaBEND can be used to optimize bending processes including air bending, die bending, and 3-point bending. Machine options such as angle measurement systems and lifting aids are also supported.

SigmaBEND provides the ability to adjust every programming parameter, giving the user ultimate control. By allowing users to program and verify bending operations offline, it frees up valuable machine time, improves first-off reliability and, as a result, reduces manufacturing costs dramatically.

Trade shows are an important way to network with others in manufacturing and to learn about the latest technology in the industry. SigmaTEK exhibits at several high-profile trade shows domestically and internationally. These shows give you, as SigmaNEST users, the opportunity to meet the SigmaTEK Team and see our newest software solutions in action. Stop by our booth at one of the shows listed below for a demonstration or to chat with members of the SigmaTEK Team.

This year, SigmaTEK will be exhibiting at 11 shows across the world. The first, SolidWorks World 2010, concluded on February 3. The second, Expo Manufactura concluded on March 4. The remaining shows are listed below. For more information on these shows, please contact Cornel TerreBlanche at cornelt@sigmanest.com and keep an eye out for
e-mail reminders. We hope to see you there!

Trade Show:   Location:    Dates: National Manufacturing Week   Australia   May 11 - 14 LAMIERA   Bologna, Italy   May 12 - 15 Messen Essen   Beijing, China   May 27 - 30 BIEMH   Bilbao, Spain   May 31 - June 5 Mach 2010   Birmingham, UK   June 7 - 11 IWF   Atlanta, GA   August 25 - 28 IMTS   Chicago, IL    September 13 -18 EuroBlech   Hanover, Germany   October 26 - 30 Fabtech   Atlanta, GA   November 2 - 4

Q : Where can I find the SolidWorks import function?
A : If you select the DXF Import drop down menu, you will find all the import functions.

SigmaTUBE is a tube cutting solution that is implemented as a plug-in inside SolidWorks. It can automatically detect features to be cut on a laser or plasma, and generate the toolpath automatically. The extremely intuitive step-by-step wizard based interface makes it easy for users to create NC programs for tube models, all inside the familiar SolidWorks environment.

SigmaTUBE is now able to generate toolpath for 5-axis machines. This new feature allows maximum flexibility in cutting torch motion and processing bevel cuts on parts. This feature is useful for flat bed gantry based laser or plasma machines which have beveling capabilities (tilting head). Another useful application of this feature include programming robots to do tube processing with bevel cuts.

SigmaNEST will be partnering with ModernTech Mechanical to host the Spring Manufacturing Technology Expo on April 20th in Panama City Beach, Florida & April 22nd in Mobile, Alabama. We invite you to attend this FREE event! Join SigmaTEK and other top companies who provide solutions for manufacturers of aerospace, aviation, automotive, electronics, and consumer goods. There will be on-site demonstrating of SigmaNEST Version 9, as well as SigmaTUBE, Sigma3D and SolidNEST.

To learn more about SigmaNEST and the Spring Manufacturing Technology Expo, or to register to attend one of these free events, visit the expo website at www.moderntechmech.com or call us at 513-674-0005. REGISTER BY APRIL 1 TO RECEIVE A SPECIAL GIFT AT THE EVENT!