Latest Release – What’s New
Introducing SigmaSUITE V22
The Connected Shop
SigmaSUITE Version 22 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
CAD/CAM Nesting designed to make fabricators confident of the best nest with clear, easy to use, and accurate nesting options for every manufacturing need.
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- Users will notice the difference right from the start with a redesigned installer that detects all existing products for upgrading.
- New standard shape improvements have been added to assist super-fast parametric geometry edits for efficient NC programming.
- SigmaNEST has been re-engineered for direct transactions within SigmaSUITE creating a 30%speed improvement on processes that required SimTrans transaction manager. Customers that don’t have an MRP/ERP connection can upgrade without the cost of SimTrans, and those configurations that require an MRP/ERP connection are now much faster.
- SigmaNEST Version 22 introduces a number of UI enhancements, such as options to change the sheet names in the feature tree, granular control over hatching density for reporting visibility, and multiview layout sequencing. Users can also select the correct Machine Bed Drawing directly from the Machine Parameters Config menu to see their stock in relation to the bed size and slat locations.
- Further developments for SigmaNEST include the ability to use a graphical indicator to validate tab locations for the entire nest before sending the program on to manufacturing. Additionally, part reporting capabilities have been extended with support for part process parameters such as amperage or gas type, improved visual aids for nest detail text, and the ability to highlight mirrored parts with hatching styles.
Profiling / 2D-3D Bevel
SigmaNEST advanced nesting software optimizes the detailed features of bevel cutting machines to support superior part quality while reducing or eliminating scrap material.
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By combining an easy-to-use user interface with cutting-edge functionality for laser, plasma and waterjet machines, SigmaNEST is an ideal solution for beveling technology.
- Updated I-Cut control can now manage the rotation and tilt to treat straight cuts as a zero-degree angle to ensure a perfect edge. Further enhancements include the ability to move lead-in positions for profile destruction to eliminate unsafe head movement, and the ability for bevel programmers to use 2D geometry with the Rule Manager to extrude fixed bevels, and easily generate leads, corner loops, and transitions.
2D-3D Router
SigmaNEST Router module offers a robust feature set to optimize manufac-turing across industries such as shipbuilding, watercraft, aerospace, automotive, furniture, and signage.
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Starting with automatic feature recognition for part importing, SigmaNEST intuitively assists programmers for faster, high-quality router operations. Time-saving parameters are applied for better quality and efficient material and machine cycle, and better productivity from start to finish.
- SigmaNEST Router is now 3D-capable, allowing users to visualize pocket depths, ramping between Z-level depths, and tool changes. 3D Router allows users to define the optimum cutting method based on the ratio between part geometry shape and material removal, resulting in fewer passes and a more efficient toolpath.
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.
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- Improved nesting for automated common line cutting for single, same, and multipart geometry that easily recalculates for different tool sizes. Clamps can now be repositioned on the fly, and a new multi-torch program simulation highlights active torches and torch spacing before NC cutting.
- Automatic punch sequence ordering for part removal greatly improves programming flexibility to allow for user-defined criteria such as removing small parts first, or working towards the clamps to retain plate rigidity. The new tool manager allows tools to be quickly added, saved as a group, and ported between jobs.
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.
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- Programmers are up-to-speed quickly with enhanced import capabilities for the latest native CAD formats which include sketch association to SigmaNEST operations for NX, and 3D part property mapping for SolidWorks.
Advanced CAD/CAM: 3D Products
SigmaBEND 3D Press Brake software
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.
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- Import, manage and share CAD/CAM properties including File, Part, Program and Custom throughout the entire process chain. This shared data integrates ERP/MRP/MES systems for automated quoting, planning, and verification.
- Now choose to retain original color of imported models and assemblies in order to better distinguish individual parts or signify material types.
- Added context menu options and shortcuts to press brake tasks
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.
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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.
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- Part Parameters now shows dimensions based on folded and unfolded views of the part. Also added ability to create unfolder rules for tool assignment to automatically update parts based on tooling during unfold.
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.
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- SigmaDEVELOP has added flange collar options to transition from rectangle to round/oval shapes, and the ability to have zero-radius corners when transitioning from a rectangle to round for sharp-cornered bends.
SigmaCTL Optimized Beam Line Nesting
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.
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- SigmaCTL is now upgraded for better quoting, job creation, and part tracking/unloading. SigmaCTL now works with both SigmaSCHEDULE and Load Manager, and is augmented by a new CTL Feedback app to manage programs at the machine. In addition, users can now specify load orientation, and even mix parts from across jobs to truly optimize their material savings with the optimum nest.
- SigmaCTL can now export a 3D nest as either a STEP or IGES files to interface with new machine manufacturers. Added ability to export nested parts as DSTV files.
- Accessing library stock from Task Parameters now automatically filters the stock list to the task profile instead of just the task profile group
- Added job parts list for sorting and loading parts from created jobs and orders
- Added part spacing option to nesting
SigmaTUBE Tube Nesting for Laser and Plasma Machines
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.
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- New automated features include Auto Marking for partial depth/auto text as well as Auto Quality Rules.
SigmaTUBE SW Tube and Pipe Nesting within SOLIDWORKS
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.
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- SigmaTUBE can now export a 3D nest as either a STEP or IGES files to interface with new machine manufacturers.
Shop Floor Control
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
SigmaSCHEDULE accurately schedule projects with nested programs, parts assigned across many sheets, multiple cutting processes, and secondary operations such as bending and welding. All production operations are scheduled based on job priority and due date as well as machine capacity and operation dependencies.
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- SigmaSCHEDULE now analyzes jobs for any items that require secondary operations and prioritizes them to allow for better efficiency, a quicker start and reduced idle time.
Color Offload
Color Offload makes part unloading and sorting easier by color-coding nested parts according to work order, next operation, or any custom designation.
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- Swap Sheet and Reject Parts are now performed without SimTrans.
Load Manager Real-time Load Balancing
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.
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- Load Manager can now intelligently distribute process tasks within a machine group for better manufacturing capacity with automated load balancing.
- Operations now can be grouped by department and dragged to different departments. Programming hours now can be decimal values. Added ability to drag and drop to reorder workstations.
Shop Floor Data Capture
Shop Floor Data Capture combines accurate machine and operator data into one fully-integrated system to allow a clear view of current job progress and statistics for work orders, operators, and departments. SFDC offers manual creating of remnants, allowing users to book remnants or prime sheets back into inventory.
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- Added machine type selection option in Operation Manager
- Added refresh button
SigmaSHIPPING
SigmaSHIPPING browser app works on any mobile device to simplify shipping throughout the operation while automatically updating the SigmaMRP data record. Users can access pertinent shipping data through any smartphone or tablet without displaying financial details such as cost and price.
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SigmaRECEIVE
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.
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SigmaPACK
SigmaPACK simplifies logistics by giving users total control over part bundling, packaging, labeling, and job tracking. Quickly retrieve packaging and delivery infor-mation such as part weights, delivery date, and customer address from the source. Job status is automatically updated throughout shipping with barcode scanning.
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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.
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Business Systems Integration
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.
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- Improved user access permissions for a ‘view only’ mode which allows full visibility, but no editing capabilities.
- Resolve any fractional cost amounts to ensure accurate accounting and a smart purchasing button that allows the user to select multiple jobs to calculate material requirements and combine common elements into a single PO to be used for all jobs.
- Estimators can quickly copy items from job to job along with any price adjustments or additional costing factors which significantly speeds up quoting for similar projects.
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 modify part and project parameters.
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- Resolve any fractional cost amounts to ensure accurate accounting, and a smart purchasing button that allows the user to select multiple jobs to calculate material requirements, and combine common elements into a single PO to be used for all jobs. Improved user access permissions for a ‘view only’ mode which allows full visibility, but no editing capabilities.
- Estimators can quickly copy items from job to job along with any price adjustments or additional costing factors which significantly speeds up quoting for similar projects.
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.
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- SimTrans version 22 posts a 30% speed improvement on processes that required SimTrans transaction manager. Customer configurations that require an MRP/ERP connection are now much faster.
