5XCAM – Next Generation Hybrid Manufacturing Software

Digital manufacture predominately makes use of two fabrication processes: 3D printing that builds objects up layer-by-layer in a material additive process, and machining where material is cut away from stock with a sharp tool to shape it into the final part in a subtractive process. 3D printing is a revolutionary technology that allows for easy fabrication of parts with complex geometry. However, the parts often have poor tolerances and a rough surface finish.

Machining can produce parts with tight tolerances and superior surface finish but is wasteful of material, where typically 50%-90% of the original material is lost in the process.

These processes can be combined in a new "hybrid manufacturing" process. 5AXISWORKS have developed a desktop 5-axis hybrid machine called "5AXISMAKER", which for the past 6-years was the core product for 5AXISWORKS. Machines like "5AXISMAKER" can combine the strength of 3D printing and the accuracy of machining by 3D printing a near-shape component and finishing it using its 5-axis machining capability.

Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine tools used in digital fabrication need Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software to create a tool path that the machine will follow to produce the part. 3D printing slicer (CAM) software was a significant contributing factor to the rate of adoption and spread of this technology. Targeted at casual users, ease of use made it a universal tool that could easily fit within any fabrication environment.

Software to drive 5-axis machines like 5AXISMAKER has traditionally been used by highly skilled professionals in industries like aerospace. This places suitable software out of reach for most in terms of skill required to operate as well as affordability.

5AXISWORKS will develop a new CAM software program called "5XCAM" that will make hybrid manufacturing as accessible as 3D printing. It will combine 5-axis subtractive and additive functionality of a "5AXISMAKER" machine in a single interface which is as easy to use as pressing a "go" button on a 3D printer. Our aim is to unlock the power of hybrid manufacturing for a wider market by automating labour intensive toolpath creation.

Democratisation of hybrid manufacturing will greatly increase the ability of individuals and businesses to innovate and grow, especially through times of economic recession.