Highlighting Panel Processing Methods

Work cell or nesting?
 
Panel processing breaks down roughly into two approaches:
 
  • The work cell, where you cut part blanks on a panel saw (everything from a CNC beam saw to a table saw) and then machine the blanks on a point-to-point machine
  • Nested-based manufacturing, where the perimeter of the parts as well as the face machining are all done on a single CNC router.
In practical terms, the two methods aren’t completely either/or, with the software and hardware often capable of both approaches. Both methods have their virtues, and with CADCode you can use both without extra effort.

CADCode is used by many different manufacturers making many different kinds of products, but the most common application is panel processing – wood, wood-composite, solid surface and panels made of other materials. With CADCode, you can use the work cell or nesting approach, or both – See side panel.

Check out the list of standard benefits:

  • Control panel process manager to define all machining processes in your facility and to assign parts/jobs through all operations
  • Import all manufacturing data from major cabinet design packages, DWG, DXF, XML, spreadsheet and data base files
  • Mix and match multiple sources of data for true batch processing
  • 100% ready-to-run code for saws, point-to-points, routers, and boring machines with largest machine control library in the industry
  • Simultaneous code generation for multiple machine types
  • Automatic one-step assignment of all tooling and tool paths
  • Internal machine configuration module - every aspect of machine operations is defined, including drill head layout, router and tool diameters, tool changer, single, aggregate, or multi-axis tool ability, table and zone configurations, and G-code format
  • Automatic optimization of drilling patterns
  • On-the-fly part editing and automatic part rotation
  • Automatic run-field control and handling of mirrored parts

 

CADCode’s ProductionMaster™ combines all of the components to control both nested-based and work-cell manufacturing for plants that operate a complex combination of machinery and production methods.