Home >>Latest ArtCAM News >>Delcam offers free ArtCAM demo software for artistic users
Free demonstration versions of Delcam’s ArtCAM Express and ArtCAM Insignia artistic CADCAM software are now available. Both programs can be downloaded from the www.artcam.com web site or obtained on a CD by emailing [email protected].
The CD includes a range of supporting materials, including an image gallery, case-studies and an overview of how to use ArtCAM. There are also six demonstration videos and accompanying tutorials to help prospects learn the software.
These cover 2D and 3D modelling and machining of some simpler designs, nesting of shapes and V-bit carving.
Both these trial versions are save-disabled so prospective users cannot output designs and toolpaths that they have developed. However, six sample ArtCAM models are supplied with the demonstration software. Toolpaths for these models can be created with the full set of machining strategies and output using any of the 180 standard post-processors supplied with ArtCAM. This will allow potential customers to test the software for compatibility with their machines tools before they buy.
Both ArtCAM Express and ArtCAM Insignia are aimed at skilled artisans rather than engineers and require little knowledge of engineering or computing. Indeed, ArtCAM Express is believed to be the easiest to learn and fastest to use engraving and routing software currently available. It offers basic 2D drawing, and 2D and 3D machining functions, and so provides an ideal introduction to computer-based manufacturing for companies in the signmaking, woodworking and engraving industries.
ArtCAM Insignia offers more options for mass-production applications, especially in the woodworking industries. It includes vector-based design, extensive 2D machining and basic 3D machining functionality. It also allows users to import, scale, position and machine 2D and 3D decorations and textures onto their designs, and so to manufacture more distinctive and more attractive products.
Industry | Computer-aided design, Computer-aided manufacturing |
---|---|
Founded | 1965 (as a team within Cambridge University Engineering Department) 1989 (as Delcam International) |
Headquarters | , England, UK |
Worldwide | |
Key people | Pete Baxter (Vice President) Ed Lambourne (Technical Director) |
Products | EngineeringSoftware, Turnkey cells |
Services | Maintenance, Bespoke solutions |
Website | www.delcam.com |
Delcam is a supplier of advanced CAD/CAM software for the manufacturing industry.[1]The company has grown steadily since being founded formally in 1977, after initial development work at Cambridge University, UK.[2]It is now a global developer of product design and manufacturing software, with subsidiaries and joint ventures in North America, South America, Europe and Asia with a total staff of over 800 people and local support provided from over 300 re-seller offices worldwide. It was listed on the London Stock Exchange until 6 February 2014, when it was acquired by Autodesk.[3]It now operates as a wholly owned, independently operated subsidiary of Autodesk.
In 1965, Donald Welbourn[4]saw the possibility of using computers to help pattern makers solve the problems of modelling difficult 3D shapes. He persuaded the Science Research Council to support research at the Cambridge University Engineering Department. Early sponsorship was provided by Ford and Control Data in Germany, whose customers included Volkswagen and Daimler-Benz. In 1974 the Delta Group seconded Ed Lambourne (now Technical Director at Delcam) to the Cambridge Team. After Lambourne returned to Delta, a Birmingham-based development centre was established in 1977.
In 1989, the company was bought from Delta Group in a buyout led by Managing Director Hugh Humphreys and Ed Lambourne. The company was renamed Delcam International in 1991 and moved to a new purpose-built office in Small Heath. In July 1997, Delcam Ltd was floated on the Alternative Investment Market to expand international operations and increase the investment development.
The company now have over 300 offices assisting 90,000 users worldwide with an annual turnover of over £100 million with the largest development team in the industry.[5]Clive Martell was chief executive from August 2009.[6]In February 2015, Pete Baxter, former vice president of sales and country manager for Autodesk in the UK, was appointed vice president.[7]
Is a 3D CAD (Computer-aided Design) solution that runs on Microsoft Windows which allows for the design of 3D complex models using surfaces, solids and triangles. The software allows for the import of 3D point cloud data to reverse engineer 3D models.[8]PowerSHAPE is used for a variety of applications including Modelling for manufacture, electrode design, mould and toolmaking.[9]The code of PowerSHAPE originates from the DUCT software.
A CAM solution for the programming of tool paths for 2 to 5 axis CNC Milling (Computer Numerical Control).
A CAD based inspection solution package for use with many types of inspection hardware,[10]including manual and CNC CMMs, portable arms, optical measuring devices and CNC machine tools (OMV). Developed for use on Microsoft Windows, the software is sold to a wide range of industries.
In 2004 Delcam won a Queen’s award[11][12]for innovation for PowerINSPECT and by 2008 PowerINSPECT was Delcam’s second biggest selling product.
A software package for the programming of machining robots with up to 8 axes.
A feature-based CAM solution for milling, turning, and wire EDM.
A CAM software for programming of turn-mill equipment bar-fed mills and Swiss-type lathes.
A CAM solution based on PowerMILL and FeatureCAM embedded into SolidWorks.
A CAD data translator for reading and writing all commonly used CAD format files.
An integrated software within PowerSHAPE for automatic generation of solid electrode models for EDM with optional tool path generation in PowerMILL.
A package for measurement of complex parts directly on the machine tools.
A specialist 3D design and manufacture solution for jewelers.
A complete solution for the design and manufacture of 2D Artwork & 3D Reliefs.
Is for production-level layout and manufacture of 2D Artwork & 3D Reliefs.
Is a low cost introductory design and machining solution.
After acquisition by Autodesk in 2014, Artcam has been discontinued or 'killed'.
Is a web-based workflow management tool for tracking orders remotely.
Is a software package for the design of custom orthotic insoles.
Is a software package for the manufacture of custom orthotic insoles.
Is a foot, plaster cast and foambox scanner
Is a software package for 3D last modification and 3D last grading.
Is a software package for the 3D design of footwear.
Is software for 3D sole unit engineering and grading.
Is software for 2D pattern engineering and grading.
Is software for 2D pattern part nesting and cutting.
Is software for 2D pattern part nesting and cutting for projection cutting machines.
Is software for total footwear costing.
Is a technical documentation software package
Delcam operates a development scheme for engineering and software graduates. The graduate programme consists of five 10-week rotations across different functions of the company. Functions include Professional Services, international support, marketing, ArtCAM, PowerINSPECT, and training. Graduates also have the opportunity to work at Delcam USA in Philadelphia or Salt Lake City.[19]
Delcam's logo incorporates a computer-modelled spider named Boris. This was produced as an experiment to render hairs in Delcam's CAD software in 1984. Upon seeing a machined version at a show, the Managing Director Hugh Humphreys decided to take it home and use it within the company's logo.[20]
Home >>Latest ArtCAM News >>Delcam’s new ArtCAM JewelSmith offers multiple layers and more
The latest release of Delcam’s ArtCAM JewelSmith software, version 9, includes enhancements for data import, design creation and machining of models. ArtCAM JewelSmith is already established as the main design and manufacturing software for the jewellery industry and the new features in this release seem certain to consolidate its leading position.
The most important enhancement in the version 9 release is the ability to create and edit designs as a series of layers, rather than always having to work with the complete model. The use of multiple layers is most advantageous when working on a design made up of different types of relief, for example a combination of a 3D shape, a texture and some lettering. Placing the elements of each type onto separate layers makes it easier to edit the individual parts of the design and to manage the complete model.
The ability to switch layers on and off makes it easier to create a series of designs based on a common template. For example, class rings could be prepared for a number of colleges or universities, using a common design with separate layers for each of the institution’s logos. To create a ring for an individual student, the basic design would simply be scaled to the required size and the layer for the appropriate college switched on.
In a similar way, the use of layers also makes model management simpler when different elements of the design intersect with each other. It is much easier to change the positions and relationships between overlapping elements, allowing a series of complex design variants to be developed more quickly and easily.
Dividing a model into layers can also speed calculation times, especially for complex models. This is possible because the relief can be edited layer by layer, rather than having to undertake a re-calculation for the whole model after every change.
The range of data translation options has been extended by adding the pdf format to the image types that can be brought into ArtCAM JewelSmith. All the bitmap and vector pages within the pdf document are converted automatically into separate layers within the ArtCAM file.
The resolution of any artwork and the related reliefs can now be adjusted during the design process. This means that low-resolution artwork, from the Internet for example, can be imported and then the resolution increased to improve dramatically the quality of the resultant relief model.
Finally, two new wizards have been added to make machining easier. The first covers index machining and allows machining at a series of fixed angles on rotary equipment. Typically, the model will be aligned such that machining of any areas with fine detail can be undertaken with the cutter as close as possible to a normal angle to the surface.
The main benefit will be in the production of items like rings and bangles that feature a number of separate reliefs around their circumference. Index machining will also make it easier to produce vertical walls in tension rings.
The second wizard can be used to develop mould designs automatically from product designs, generating the parting line and the two mould sections from a user-specified block of material. Runners can be added using the software’s normal modelling tools. The complete mould can then be manufactured using ArtCAM JewelSmith’s full range of machining strategies.
This article provides answers to frequent questions from legacy ArtCAM software users following the Autodesk® ArtCAM 2017 product range release.
What's happened to the online ArtCAM Store?
The ArtCAM Store has been taken offline permanently; it is superseded by the Autodesk Store.
Why can't I post on the ArtCAM Forum?
The Delcam ArtCAM Forum is locked in read-only mode, and is superseded by the Autodesk Community ArtCAM Forum.
Can I still buy ArtCAM Express?
No. ArtCAM Express is not part of the ArtCAM 2017 product range; ArtCAM Express 2015 R2 (Boxed) and ArtCAM Express 2015 R2 (Download Only) are discontinued.
Can I still buy modules for ArtCAM Express?
No. Modules for ArtCAM Express 2015 R2 and earlier releases are discontinued.
Can I upgrade from ArtCAM Express to ArtCAM Insignia?
No. It is no longer possible to upgrade from ArtCAM Express to ArtCAM Insignia. Customers requiring the functionality previously offered by ArtCAM Insignia 2015 R2 should purchase a monthly or annual subscription to ArtCAM Standard 2017 from the Autodesk Store.
Can I still transfer from a download-only version of ArtCAM to a boxed version of ArtCAM?
No. If you have a licence for ArtCAM Express 2015 (Download Only), ArtCAM Express 2015 R2 (Download Only), ArtCAM Insignia 2015 (Download Only) or ArtCAM Insignia 2015 R2 (Download Only), it is no longer possible to transfer to the boxed product equivalent.
Does the ArtCAM 2017 product range use a USB security-protection dongle?
No. The ArtCAM 2017 product range is sold on a subscription basis and utilizes Autodesk CLIC Licensing.
Is my PAF Licence file compatible with ArtCAM 2017?
No. The ArtCAM 2017 product range does not utilize the PAF (*.paf), ELF (*.elf), FLEX (*.flx) or RMS (*.rms) licensing associated with legacy ArtCAM products. The ArtCAM 2017 product range is sold on a subscription basis and utilizes Autodesk CLIC Licensing.
Can I still buy ArtCAM Insignia?
No. ArtCAM Insignia is not part of the ArtCAM 2017 product range; ArtCAM Insignia 2015 R2 (Boxed) and ArtCAM Insignia 2015 R2 (Download Only) are discontinued.Customers requiring functionality previously offered by ArtCAM Insignia 2015 R2 should purchase a monthly or annual subscription to ArtCAM Standard 2017 from the Autodesk Store.
• Customize on-screen touch controls or use an external controller or keyboard. • Save and restore game state anywhere, anytime. Ppsspp for windows 10 pc. • Support for anisotropic filtering and texture scaling. • Support for big-screen mobile gaming.
Can I still buy ArtCAM Pro?
No. ArtCAM Pro is not part of the ArtCAM 2017 product range; ArtCAM Pro 2015 R2 is discontinued.Customers requiring functionality previously offered by ArtCAM Pro 2015 R2 should purchase a monthly or annual subscription to ArtCAM Premium 2017 from the Autodesk Store.
Can I still buy ArtCAM JewelSmith?
No. ArtCAM JewelSmith is not part of the ArtCAM 2017 product range; ArtCAM JewelSmith 2015 R2is discontinued. Customers requiring functionality previously offered by ArtCAM JewelSmith 2015 R2 should purchase a monthly or annual subscription to ArtCAM Premium 2017 from the Autodesk Store.
Can I upgrade from a previous version of ArtCAM to ArtCAM 2017?
No. You will need to purchase a new monthly or annual subscription to ArtCAM Standard 2017 or ArtCAM Premium 2017 from the Autodesk Store.
Is KeyShot bundled with ArtCAM 2017?
No. KeyShot is not bundled with ArtCAM Standard 2017 or ArtCAM Premium 2017, and it is not supported.
Can I still update my ArtCAM software?
Yes. Customers should select the Help > Check for Updates > Software Updates menu option in their legacy ArtCAM software to find releases, service packs and hotfixes. Alternatively, they can access the Autodesk Customer Downloads Centre (formerly the Delcam Customer Downloads Centre) using their dongle number or virtual dongle number together with their registered email address.
Can I create reliefs in the free version of ArtCAM 2017?
No. To create reliefs, you require ArtCAM Standard 2017 or ArtCAM Premium 2017. Both products are available to buy from the Autodesk Store.
Can I install the free version of ArtCAM 2017 alongside ArtCAM Express?
Yes. Installing the free version of ArtCAM 2017 does not conflict with your ArtCAM Express installation. The free version of ArtCAM 2017 is available to download from the ArtCAM website.
Am I entitled to a free upgrade to ArtCAM 2017?
Customers with an active Delcam maintenance agreement have now been contacted by Autodesk regarding their entitlements to the ArtCAM 2017 product range. Customers without an active Delcam maintenance agreement need to purchase a subscription to ArtCAM Standard 2017 or ArtCAM Premium 2017 from the Autodesk Store.
Where can I find ArtCAM 2017 products in the Autodesk Store?
US customers can find ArtCAM Standard 2017 here, and ArtCAM Premium 2017 here.
UK customers can find ArtCAM Standard 2017 and ArtCAM Premium 2017 here.
EU customers can find ArtCAM Standard 2017 and ArtCAM Premium 2017 here.
What's the difference between the free version of ArtCAM 2017, ArtCAM Standard 2017 & ArtCAM Premium 2017?
You can find a product comparison on the ArtCAM website and attached to this article.
Is ArtCAM supported on the Macintosh operating system yet?
No. The ArtCAM 2017 product range is supported on Windows operating systems listed in the system requirements.