Next generation of Mastercam released for global public testing

Tolland, Connecticut – The next generation of Mastercam, named Mastercam 2017, has a Public Beta now open to all currently maintained Mastercam customers. Shops all around the world, from small job shops to Fortune 100, get a chance to test Mastercam 2017 before it is released and provide valuable feedback that helps shape the final product. Participants in the Public Beta get an early look at the new streamlined workflow and optimized interface that Mastercam 2017 delivers, along with dozens of powerful new tools for simple to complex jobs. 

Here are a few things in Mastercam 2017 Beta:

• Optimized interface organizes and streamlines programming. Based on the “ribbon” interface, Mastercam 2017 capitalizes on the user’s experience with other Windows software, making it easier to find functions to complete tasks.
• Dynamic Motion advances bring new options to Mastercam’s technique, delivering toolpaths that are more efficient, less complex, travel a shorter distance, and improve cycle time.
• Expanded CAD for CAM delivers more practical design tools for shopfloor programmers. Mastercam 2017 speeds design for items such as molds and electrode tools, offers auto-repair on imported solids, and improves current tools such as Solid Disassemble.
• The Maximum Stock Engagement option for 3D HST Finishing toolpaths allows users to select a previously made stock model and set the maximum amount of depth so that users can limit how deeply the cutter engages uncut material. 
• Powerful Multiaxis enhancements include optimized Multiaxis Drill, with stock model recognition for depth and top of stock purposes. Additionally, the various ways of selecting stock have been updated to have consistent workflow and selection methods.
• Lathe enhancements, such as the Align Solid Body, simplifies the process of aligning solid models for turning. Chip Break has a new option and a dialog box has been added to the Lathe Rough and Lathe Contour Rough toolpaths to establish when chip breaks occur.
• Overall streamlined workflow with improved plane management, level, and geometry control; viewsheets; chaining; and more. The Analyze Toolpath feature further improves workflow by displaying useful information when users hover over a toolpath section.

Source: Mastercam