CNC training software available on CD ROM

Siemens Energy and Automation offers its SinuTrain solution, a package of CNC training software on CD-ROM that runs with Windows XR To further speed the program-generation protocol, NC programs can be developed and simulated using a direct connection to the company's CAD systems. In this way, mill and lathe operators not only learn the control language commands, but also visualize part programs on PC screens that are identical to actual machine screens.

Additionally, the simulated programs can be used on real machines. Programming language is based on DIN 66025 as well as the company's ShopTurn, ShopMill and ManualTurn products and language commands. The SinuTrain training keyboard features a layout identical to that on the operator panel of the machine tool, and the keyboard is connected to the PC via a USB interface. Online help is offered with the training package, as locations can be linked to the training keyboard and customer CAD systems for rapid program creation.

Siemens, call 847-640-1595, or search www. mmsonline.com/suppliers

Mastercam CNC software turns 25

CNC Software, Inc. is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2008. The company's Mastercam product is said to have the highest number of CAD/CAM seats installed worldwide, totaling 135,824 at the end of last year. The latest version. Mastercam X3, is scheduled for release in the third quarter of 2008. This version is said to include feature-based machining, new high speed tool motion and faster toolpath generation capabilities as well as other enhancements.

CNC Software is also expanding its headquarters in Tolland, Connecticut to a total of 50,000 square feet. A 12,000-square-feet addition will include office space and house a larger R&D machine shop. The company plans to add a turn/mill machine, a Swiss-type lathe and a router to the shop's current lineup of five-axis and three-axis machine tools.

The Tolland campus will feature a 72-kW photovoltaic solar array that the company hopes will generate 25 percent of the electricity that the facility requires. Other energy-conserving and environmentally friendly measures the company has adopted in its building include geothermal heating and cooling; radiant floor heating; spray foam insulation; T8 fluorescent lighting; and low-VOC paint and carpet. The company says it has taken these measures not only to reduce energy costs, but also to provide a healthy work environment for its employees.

For more information from Mastercam/CNC Software, call 860-875-5006 or search MMSOnline.

Student wins CNC Software contest

CNC Software, Tolland, CT, developer of Mastercam CAD/CAM software, announced that the winner of its Innovator of the Future contest for the 2007/2008 school year is Bernie Sievers, a student in the Advanced Manufacturing Program at Vincennes University, Vincennes, IN.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

The contest is designed to help introduce students to real-world manufacturing by asking them to produce a specific part that would be judged by a guest from the manufacturing industry. The IOF contest required entrants to design and cut a steering wheel. Each contestant also had to submit a written description of the part, such as the inspiration for the design, the materials used, and other specifications.

The guest celebrity judge for IOF 2007/2008 was the late Boyd Codding-ton, known to many from the popular TLC show American Hot Rod.

Runner-up was Kenyon Burrell from Eastern Arizona College, Thatcher, AZ. His design integrated both aesthetics and ergonomics in a steering wheel. Alex Beranek and Jordan Hinkson, both from Kenmore Middle School, Arlington, VA, had honorable mentions with their biohazard symbol steering wheel.