Latest Release – What’s New
Introducing SigmaSUITE 21
The Connected Shop
SigmaSUITE Version 21 continues to close the loop on manufacturing connectivity targeting “The Connected Shop” – scheduling, quoting, and logistics informed by nesting intelligence. This focus, along with CAD/CAM enhancements centered on simplicity and best manufacturing strategies, continues to strengthen SigmaNEST capabilities.
Advanced CAD/CAM: SigmaNEST
SigmaNEST CAD/CAM software offers the unique ability to program all major laser, waterjet, oxyfuel, plasma, punch, router, knife, press brake, and tube machines. Import parts from any major CAD system, automatically sorting by material and machine, for optimized material usage and machine motion.
Nesting
Version 21 of the CAD/CAM software is all about simplifying the user experience. The vision: Make fabricators confident of the best nest with clear, easy to use, and accurate nesting options for every manufacturing need.
Read More
- Intuitive nesting strategies are now built in to guide user choices, including simplified controls for sheet layout preference and other task parameters.
- Process selection is particularly useful for defining specific technology settings such as toolpath lead-ins or NC parameters based on the cutting process.
Profiling/Bevel
- Common cut controls now can enable or restrict common line cutting on any edge for the desired results. Fly cutting can now be grouped in patterns.
- 3D beveling is much improved with simpler tabbing and countersink holes, rule-based transitions and leads, and automatic ramping of the feed rate based on contour or hole size.
Import/Export
SigmaNEST import modules support a wide variety of file formats with expanded
functionality such as feature recognition for STEP files, part mapping of assemblies, and even automatic BOM creation for NX assemblies.
Read More
- CAD Import Plus now adds support for Parasolid and Rhino files in addition to SOLIDWORKS, Solid Edge, Creo, Inventor, NX, Catia, without the CAD installation.
- PDF and image import have been greatly improved with enhanced OCR results, better identification of rotated text, and the ability to import multipage PDF files.
- CAD Import Direct now allows simultaneous use of multiple versions of a CAD system
- Lightweight XML Export reduces file size by 91% (e.g. 100MB to 10MB)
Punching/Combination
SigmaNEST optimizes material and programming for punch and combination machines,
with extended capabilities such as tool sorting, batch commands, and laser precutting
for complex threaded holes.
Read More
- Easier user interface now allows a clearer display of parts in the workspace along with shear hits and transformations. Users can now view punch patterns only on a program, or interactively display shear hits in Reorder.
- Auto Complete Tooling allows the user to specify certain punch details and let the software complete the rest of punch task automatically to complete the part shape.
- Common line nesting is now available for punch tasks to speed operations.
Advanced CAD/CAM - 3D Products
SigmaBEND
SigmaBEND imports, unfolds, and sequences bend programs in a 3D environment for
easy visual review of each operation. Fast, automatic sequencing and tool selection
create the optimum workflow before trial on the production floor.
Read More
- Multi-Rail setup will automatically detect and setup multiple stations for large or complex parts from a single click and also create one post program.
- Expanded tooling reports, bend type annotations, and batch feedback tools have been added to expedite and standardize pressbrake operations.
SigmaUNFOLD
SigmaUNFOLD flattens 3D patterns and allows them to be manipulated for cutting and bending operations. Solid parts can also be unfolded into a flat pattern using automatic slit creation so it can be processed on cutting or press brake machines.
Read More
- Edit Radius of imported parts lets users modify any bend radius
- Tool Based Unfolding automatically calculates bend radius from DXF-imported tools.
- Sharp Bend Unfolding produces flat shapes from parts with no bend geometry.
SigmaDEVELOP
SigmaDEVELOP speeds creation of custom 3D parts from its extensive library of ducting and HVAC shapes. The specialized software makes difficult ductwork easier such as converting multi-piece common line gores into a single no-kerf common line part.
Read More
- Sharp Unfold Shapes accurate part creation from shapes without bend geometry.
SigmaCTL
SigmaCTL creates and nests cut-to-length parts for pipe, beam, and tube. SigmaCTL automatically recognizes features on imported 3D models, and responds to batch commands for automating stock and parts list. Cut time estimations are also available.
Read More
- Trueshape Nesting from SigmaTUBE now adds nesting flexibility and power.
- Best Stick Mixed or Best Stick Fixed parameters now make handling easier.
SigmaDSTV
SigmaDSTV SW integrates with SOLIDWORKS to create NC1 files from native
SOLIDWORKS models, automatically detecting markings and features before exporting
the files into SigmaNEST.
Read More
- Property Mapping for Multibody and Multiconfiguration parts now makes part processing easier and more accurate.
SigmaTUBE
SigmaTUBE generates nests and NC code for tube and pipe cutting on laser and plasma machines. It features intelligent feature recognition, common line cutting, four-axis compensation for non-bevel-capable machines and five-axis support for bevel machines.
Read More
- New automated features include Auto Marking for partial depth/auto text as well as Auto Quality Rules.
- Support for Open Section Tubes adds new flexibility for tube programming.
SigmaTUBE SW
SigmaTUBE SW plugin offers nesting within SOLIDWORKS fully 3D environment for
many types of stock including T-beam, D-shape, triangular, and freeform. SigmaTUBE offers flexible part creation, CAD tools, and toolpathing for Mazak, Trumpf, Amada, and machines with secondary functions.
Read More
- DSTV Import supports NC1 format for angle and channel stock for Tekla and SDS.
- Arc conversion for marking splines, and 4-axis support for single pierce open section toolpaths.
Enhanced Shop Floor Solutions
SigmaTEK Shop Floor Solutions streamline production from cutting and sorting parts to delivery. Empowered with dynamic scheduling and tracking capabilities, operation managers take full control of their lean manufacturing operations.
SigmaSCHEDULE
Brand new SigmaSCHEDULE brings true dynamic scheduling unique in the fabrication industry. Schedule projects with nested programs, assigned to multiple sheets, and secondary ops such as bending.
Read More
All production operations are scheduled based on job priority and due date as well as machine capacity and operation dependencies.
- Schedule forward for the quickest timeline (as soon as possible).
- Schedule backward from a fixed due date (just in time).
- Preschedule jobs during quoting to ensure delivery dates can be met.
- Fully reschedule the entire operations as needed at any point in the day.
ColorOffload
Color Offload makes part unloading and sorting easier by color-coding nested parts according to work order, next operation, or any custom designation.
Read More
- Color Offload Integration gives users the power to automatically create a new job and attach documentation when replacing a rejected part and. These new jobs can be managed through SigmaMRP and SigmaQUOTE.
Load Manager
Load Manager offers proactive workload scheduling and machine assignment through
an intuitive user interface. Programs can be quickly split, extended, stopped, or restarted. With Color Offload, schedules update in real time to reflect shop floor status.
Read More
- Real-time Load Balancing divides the work efficiently for machines and secondary operations, while identifying any sequence dependencies within the timeline.
- Automatically “Resolve” the current day’s schedule to compensate for disruptions, such as machine down time or “hot” jobs, to ensure job priorities are met.
Shop Floor Data Capture
Shop Floor Data Capture combines accurate machine and operator data into one fully-integrated system that allows a clear view of current job progress and statistics for work orders, operators, and departments. SFDC now offers manual creating of remnants, allowing users to book remnants or prime sheets back into inventory.
SigmaSHIPPING
The new SigmaSHIPPING browser app simplifies shipping throughout the operation while automatically updating SigmaMRP. Access pertinent shipping data through any smartphone or tablet without displaying financial details such as cost and price.
Read More
- Track outgoing shipments and add accurate shipping weight and price.
- Divide deliveries based upon allowable package weight limits.
- Create notes and print packing slips for shipments and dispatches.
SigmaRECEIVE
The new SigmaRECEIVE browser app works on any mobile device to simplify receiving shipments and booking to inventory while automatically updating your MRP/ERP system. Users can receive shipments according to purchase order through any smartphone or tablet without displaying financial details such as cost and price.
Read More
- Review and record actual material received and booked into inventory.
- Create GRNs (Goods Received Notes).
- Book material into inventory with notes about location, heat number, etc.
- Reserve stock for customers.
SigmaPACK
SigmaPACK simplifies logistics by giving users total control over part bundling, packaging, labeling, and job tracking. Quickly retrieve packaging and delivery information such as part weights, delivery date, and customer address from the source. Job status is automatically updated throughout shipping with barcode scanning.
SigmaLIFT
SigmaLIFT browser app works on any mobile device or tablet to easily manage the movement of stock throughout operations. Users can transfer stock among locations, deliver cut list materials to the proper workstation, and move dispatches to charter.
Read More
- User-friendly interface enables barcode scanning throughout the app for a paperless trail that is fully integrated with the SigmaSUITE platform.
Enhanced Business Systems Solutions
SigmaSUITE continues to close the loop on manufacturing connectivity targeting “The Connected Shop” – scheduling, quoting, and logistics informed by nesting intelligence. The aim of the Connected Shop is to bridge CRM, Ordering, Inventory, Production, Delivery, and Accounting.
SigmaMRP
SigmaMRP offers comprehensive manufacturing resource planning that is fully integrated with all SigmaNEST products and database. Users can control critical job functions through every stage of production—inventory, quotation, work order, manufacturing, delivery, invoicing.
Read More
- Increased visibility and control with enhanced shop floor feedback throughout the workflow.
- Comprehensive integration between the Business Systems and Shop Floor products creates a closed loop of control in which each operation informs the next.
SigmaQUOTE
SigmaQUOTE leverages SigmaMRP and SigmaNEST data to provide fast accurate quotes, manage customer data, and turn quotes into work orders. The bi-directional workflow allows for complete flexibility to seamlessly modify part and project parameters.
Read More
- Pricing tiers have been added to reward best customers and standardize quoting.
- Additional controls include the ability to add a markup for specific materials or operations, and to easily apply limited time promotions.
- Pre-schedule While Quoting to ensure the project can be fulfilled before.
SimTrans
SimTrans transaction manager links the SigmaNEST suite of products with other business systems, automating any number of processes, notifying when each task is completed. Users can leverage SimTrans automation to import, transfter, create or load parts, manipulate orders, or update inventory in real time.
Read More
- Now re-engineered for Ultrafast parallel processing.
- A new user command center features dockable viewports, an intuitive interface for quick setup.
- Print operational reports for a better recording and team communication.
