France/USA – Combining smart methodology and efficient CAM software, die manufacturer MDL Europe has reduced programming and machining times. The France-based company specialises in the manufacture of die sets, blanks of punches and dies, punch retainers and special guiding elements.

The two companies are collaborating on the development of the next generation of touch-based programming technology that enables users to quickly create and simulate CNC programs.

EOS, a German supplier of metal laser sintering units, has sealed a partnership deal with a shop that has already created faster injection tooling. In addition, the company recently introduced an upgraded version of a production unit.

Germany – Standards are expected to play a major role in the success or failure of Industry 4.0. Because the road to digital transformation requires a digital twin of the physical product, the pressure to standardise also includes the product data itself. Cutting tools are no exception to this rule.

Visometry's Visionlib aims to provide stable and precise AR-based CAD services. The software will be able to track models even under difficult and shifting lightin situations, making it a huge leap in AR technology.

The confirmed integration, including data associativity, is said to allow for continuous workflows from design through to CNC manufacturing.

USA/ France – DP Technology has announced a new version of its CAM software Esprit 2016. Among the improvements and new strategies are wire EDM improvements, which are said to make rough cutting easier and prolong tool life.

The contract manufacturer MCC Tooling has decided to program its CNC grinding machines and its wire EDM machine with CAD/CAM software in the future. The selected software is on the one hand easy to use; on the other hand, it shortens the offer, programming and processing times.

The latest machining technology is key to the success of B K Tooling, a small specialised tool making company based in Little Hallingbury, UK, producing high accuracy mouldings like components for the innovative Aquapacs, waterproof bags for valuables.

Additive manufacturing is revolutionising mechanical engineering. This also has a major impact on IT tools, from design to manufacturing execution systems.