SigmaNEST for Punch Laser

SigmaNEST is the best automatic nesting software and NC programming system for Laser combination machines.

 

Part Quality

SigmaNEST delivers the highest quality parts through advanced automatic features. Our software provides the tools to produce the most dimensionally accurate parts through the following features:

  • Repositioning control for part accuracy and backlash management
  • Pre-punch start points on plasma applications
  • Appropriate kerf direction
  • Part by part punching and cutting
  • Inspection part (first article)
  • Rule-based lead-in technology
  • Punch tool life tracking

Integration

SigmaNEST is an integrated package offering an easy to use and streamlined work method for programmers, estimators and material management personnel.

  • Directly integrate with Solid Edge, SolidWorks, and Autodesk Inventor
  • Read geometry files from Unigraphics, CATIA, and Pro/Engineer
  • Supports AutoCAD 2004 DWG and DXF
  • Supporst STEP and IGES file formats
  • Automatic feature recognition for special tooling
  • Open architecture allows users to customize post processors and management reports
  • Automated links to MRP software for batch and bill of material processing

Capabilities

SigmaNEST offers several easy to use capabilities specially designed for laser/punch combination machines. These include:

  • Automatic part punch tooling, includeing multi-tool and special tooling
  • Automatic tooling, punching, and cutting assignment for files imported through DXF, IGES, or DWG
  • Automatic nesting of parts between and under clamps resolved through repositioning
  • Automatic adjustment of lead-in lines for positioning the part over drop doors
  • Automatic repositioning of large parts that extend beyond the cutting zone with partial cut pickup
  • Effortless nesting through batch importing and bills of materials
  • Supports drilling, tapping, reaming, couter-bore, counter-sink, and pecking
  • Inspection parts hold point

Material Utilization

SigmaNEST creates superior nests and maximizes the use of raw material with the following features:

  • Advanced True Shape™ automatic nesting

  • Combining different work orders on the same sheet for best possible yield
  • Automatic nesting of parts between and under clamps resolved through repositioning
  • Nesting options available at the click of a mouse button:
    • Grid nest parts
    • True shape nesting of dissimilar parts with interlocking parts
    • Nesting small parts in cut-outs
  • Interactive nesting toolbox to manually manipulate nestings
  • AutoDynamic Nesting™ and tooling for tool load synchronization to eliminate unnecessary tool changes

Motion Optimization

SigmaNEST offers advanced NC programming functions specifically designed for Laser/Punch combination machines to reduce machine cycle time and increase cutting efficiency:

  • Automatic tool sorting for minimum cycle time
  • Dynamic cutting condition selection for best performance while maintaining part quality. Optimal feed rate is maintained throughout the cutting process
  • Automatic tip-up part avoidance for head-down rapid move
  • Automamtic continuous cutting and pierce elimination
  • Advanced part sequencing functions to create the most optimal cutting parth possible
  • "Pierce on the fly" function for machines capable of this technology ("SprintLas" on Trumpf)
  • Pre-piercing and pre-punching (punching start points)

Material Handling

SigmaNEST ensures easy and safe handling of "skeleton" and remnannt material by the operator through the following features:

  • Symmetrical tool loading
  • Double punching
  • Smart rapid cleanup avoidance
  • Automated slide moves and drop door operation
  • Progrssive cropping for Amada, Weidemann, and Trumpf
  • Temporary stops prior to cropping and part removal

Estimating

SigmaNEST's fully detailed reports provide all the information needed to streamline the cutting operation and provide accurate cost estimates. SigmaNEST can generate:

  • Accurate cycle time estimating
  • Time estimates allow dynamic machine load scheduling
  • Accurate costing and job quotes
  • Tool load management and tool life tracking