ProFab is used to create tooling paths for CNC punch presses. A tailored postprocessor translates graphical tooling into a machine-specific NC program. ProFab allows you to create machine operations using your available tools. AutoTool, available in ProFab Elite, automatically finds the required tools and assigns them to the part. The operation sequences may be optimized and reordered.

As ProFab processes a part, it searches the standard tool configuration and a library of every tool owned to find the appropriate tooling. ProFab has the best in industry interactive commands capable of punching the part the way you want it. Once the part is tooled, ProFab displays the machine table limits, material sheet size, and available punching area on the screen. Clamps and no punch zones are also represented. The user can automatically fill a sheet with a single part or mix different parts in a single nest.
ProFab provides a flexible control system that lets you create and save multiple turret layouts. You can define and save any special shaped tool. AutoTool will automatically select these special tools where appropriate.

A quick toolpath optimization option lets you optimize a single tool or all the tools at once. You can limit toolpath direction, maintain cycle hits, and check for duplicate hits. An interactive toolpath optimization option is also available. Automatic and interactive repositioning commands give you control over tool processing and handling unique situations. The Auto-Repositioning command automatically detects tool hits that are outside the valid punching area.

Efficient Machine Code Generation
Smart machine interfaces ensure efficient machine code for fast cycle times. G-code canned cycles are utilized when appropriate. Direct output interfaces are available for Amada, Behrens, Diacro, FINN-POWER, Nisshinbo, Pierce-All, Raskin, Strippit/LVD, TRUMPF, W. A. Whitney, Murata Wiedemann, and others CNC punch presses. Both DNC and punched paper tape output is available.

Feature Summary

Automatic Tool Selection
ProFab performs automatic loading of the turret with punching tools from the Tool Library for the current machine according to user defined parameters, resolving conflicts. Tools are graphically displayed so you may verify that each hit is correctly placed. Multi-tool and auto-index stations are fully supported and special consideration is given to selecting the best tools to place in the auto-index stations. ProFab allows you to perform automatic matching of punching tools to the selected shapes and/or patterns-of-shapes on the CAM layout and to create punched holes associated to these shapes. ProFab also performs automatic selection of punching tools from the turret and automatic nibbling of selected shapes and/or patterns-of-shapes for which no matching tool was found. However, you always remain in control by having the ability to override automatic selections. Standard turret setups can be saved for use on any job. Complete setup reporting is provided.

Customize Menu
ProFab is designed to allow you to set or modify many of the default values and settings used in the program. By setting the defaults to more suitable values, you will save time by not having to adjust them each time a new job is created.

Complete Optimization
ProFab features the most advanced optimization routine in the industry. Its in-depth knowledge saves you time both programming and running your CNC machine. ProFab automatically rearranges the machine operations to reduce the machine tool cycle time. This includes sorting the hits by tools to eliminate unnecessary tool changes, finding a better path to travel, checking for table limits and clamp interference, as well as eliminating duplicate operations. Extensive machine checks are made to ensure that each hit can be properly made by the machine. Table limits are verified based on the specific tool station being used. Each hit is checked against the clamp no-punch zones. ProFab automatically calculates reposition moves to punch those hits which are outside of the limits. Reposition hold-downs are graphically displayed and may be easily relocated if desired. Machine throat violations are highlighted, duplicate hits eliminated, and turret rotation minimized. ProFab fully supports advanced machine tool features, such as trap door, load/unload, and common line cutting. The machine path is then displayed for your review and if you wish, you may interactively reorder the hits. Most importantly, you are always in control of the machine operation and may specify the exact order and direction of any punching pattern.

Powerful Punching Commands
Interactive punching commands make it easy for you to specify the punch pattern you want. Tools can be picked directly from the screen or selected from the turret or tool library. Tool reference points may be varied for easier placement. Single hits, patterns, profile, and area clear commands provide the flexibility needed to manufacture parts to your exact specifications. ProFab automatically creates shaker tabs. Punching direction and sequence may be specified at any time. Special machine functions supported include: feed rate, stroke height, acceleration rate, ram speed, strippers, pre and post punch delay, free ram mode, and vacuum.

Quick Creation of Parts
ProFab’s graphical user interface allows you to visually create each of your parts to be programmed. Design parts from scratch using standard shapes and sheet metal specific shapes with user-defined parameters and locations. Punching shapes commonly used in the industry are easily described and placed in the most often used patterns. A library of your special shapes allows ProFab to quickly draw any non-standard cutouts or punch patterns. Revisions are quick and easy with ProFab’s parts modify features. When a punched hole is moved, the tooling moves with it.

Importing CAD Geometry
Parts drawn in a CAD system may be imported using either DXF or CADL formats. Data integrity is maintained to the fullest extent possible ensuring that the geometry is exactly as it was designed in CAD. Even the layers, levels, colors, and line types are maintained.

Machine Specific Capabilities
ProFab generate code for nearly all CNC punching machines. The software is able to handle machines specific functionality. You can have multiple machine configurations available with a click of the mouse.

Combination Machines
ProFab is able to generate code for all CNC controlled combination machines.

NC Generation
Post processors are available for most machine tools, including today’s state of the art or the old trusty machine in the back of your shop.

Support of the Wilson Wheel
Like the wheel, turret tooling has undergone continuous improvement in the pursuit of greater speed and performance. ProFab supports Wilson Tool International's expanded family of Wilson Wheel® tools. The hydraulic series along with the mechanical series tools are fully supported by ProFab.

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