New AI-powered feature detection by Cimatron automates CAD/CAM processes
Cimatron today released Cimatron CAD-AI, a new computer-aided design (CAD) technology that accelerates mold design and production by using artificial intelligence (AI) to automatically detect part features within solid models. The technology’s AI-based feature detection capabilities integrate seamlessly with Cimatron’s computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) automation tools to streamline the generation of safe and accurate CNC toolpath.
Today’s manufacturers strive to meet evolving customer needs and industry requirements for speed, agility, and cost efficiency as they grapple with labor shortages and rising costs. By leveraging the power of AI to automatically detect and sort varied mold features — such as holes, pockets, slots, and fillets — moldmakers increase efficiency by automating everyday CAD/CAM processes with reliable and repeatable data.
CAD-AI reflects Cimatron’s commitment to helping manufacturers automate repetitive and error-prone processes so they can confidently devote their valuable time to more productive demands.
Our new feature-detection technology simplifies design and works in tandem with our existing CAM automation technologies for improved workflow that helps moldmakers reach their full productive potential.
To identify customer needs pertaining to the development of AI-based capabilities, Cimatron and parent company Sandvik Group enlisted the help of global consulting firm EY-Parthenon to survey Cimatron and Sandvik Group customers.
The survey revealed that a significant number of manufacturers believe AI technologies capable of handling everyday CAD processing tasks should be a primary developmental goal, with 50% of participants responding that feature detection of CAD files is the top use case for AI-enabled functions.
Moreover, 48% of respondents shared that guidance/recommendation for CAD design and CAM programming is the second most valuable application of AI technology, and 48% shared that the third most valuable use case is the automated detection of quality deviations in part inspections.
Lastly, 41% categorized the general use of AI to solve everyday tasks as the fourth most helpful use case for AI-enabled technologies.
Influenced by this customer feedback, Cimatron CAD-AI was developed to provide AI-based feature-detection technology that fulfills an essential need identified by manufacturers.
Using Cimatron CAD-AI in conjunction with Cimatron’s automated machining templates, manufacturers can populate templates that contain saved machining process data with up-to-date feature information detected using AI technology. Templates can be updated in seconds and used to automatically generate error-free toolpath that reflects a company’s best machining practices.
While currently focused on providing AI-based feature detection for moldmakers, the technology’s applications will broaden as development continues. Future versions of Cimatron CAD-AI will enable users to utilize machine learning to teach the system how to recognize specific part features using their own data. This ability to customize the software’s feature detection capabilities will ensure that a shop can automatically utilize data from past jobs for increased efficiency and the consistent application of best practices.
For more information about Cimatron CAD-AI, visit: https://www.cimatron.com/en/cimatron-cad-ai
