Category Archives: Kipware® Programming Software

Posts pertaining to Kipware® Conversational and CNC Programming Software.

General, Kipware® Programming Software

Learn G Code While Making Parts With Kipware Conversational CAM

KIPWARE® Conversational CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) software simplifies the process of programming CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines by allowing users to generate G-code through an intuitive, conversational interface rather than manually writing the code line by line. Here’s how it can help you learn G-code programming effectively:

1. Visual Feedback

  • KIPWARE® Conversational CAM provides a graphical interface where you can visualize toolpaths and machining processes as you input parameters. This immediate feedback helps you understand the relationship between G-code commands and the resulting machine movements.

2. Simplified Input

  • Instead of writing raw G-code (e.g., G01 X10 Y10), you use fill-in-the-blank menus like “hole” or “pocket” using natural language or simplified fields. KIPWARE® then generates the corresponding G-code, helping you see how specific operations translate into code.

3. Step-by-Step Guidance

  • KIPWARE guides users through each step of the process (e.g., selecting tools, defining speeds and feeds, choosing cutting paths). This structured approach builds your understanding of CNC programming fundamentals.

4. Editable G-Code

  • The generated G-code can easily be viewed and edited within the software. This allows you to learn by comparing your manual code attempts with the automatically generated code, giving insight into best practices and syntax.

5. Error Reduction

  • KIPWARE® Conversational CAM includes built-in error checking and simulation tools, helping you identify mistakes in your code and understand how to correct them without risking damage to equipment or wasting material.

6. Gradual Transition to Manual Coding

  • Once you’re comfortable using KIPWARE® conversational CAM, you can start manually modifying and writing G-code. Over time, this helps you gain confidence in coding directly while maintaining the safety net of the CAM system.

7. Real-World Applications

  • KIPWARE® conversational CAM teaches you how G-code applies to real-world machining operations. As you work through projects, you’ll learn the practical applications of commands like G02 (circular interpolation) and M06 (tool change), enhancing your theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience.

8. Integration with CNC Machines

  • The generated G-code is ready to be transferred to CNC machines for execution, allowing you to see how your learning translates into actual machining processes. Observing machine behavior reinforces your understanding of G-code programming.

By bridging the gap between theory and practice, KIPWARE® conversational CAM serves as a valuable tool for beginners learning G-code and for advanced users looking to streamline their programming process.

Learn more abut KIPWARE® Conversational CAM through the link below : https://kentechinc.com/kipware-programming-software/

Kenney Skonieczny – President
Kentech Inc.

General, Kipware® G Code Conversion Software, Kipware® Programming Software, Kipware® Quoting and Estimating Software

The 3 Biggest Obstacles Facing Machine Shops Today – And How KIPWARE® Solves Them All

Machine shops today face THREE major challenges, driven by technological advancements, market pressures, and labor dynamics.This article lays them out clearly … and gives you the good news of how KIPWARE® software can help solve them all. Let’s dive in !!

1. Skilled Labor Shortage

  • Problem: There is a shortage of skilled CNC programmers and with shops relying heavily on CAD/CAM … those operators are hard to find and are in short supply. In addition … entry level G code creators who are not experienced in CAD/CAM in general … and your CAD/CAM in particular … are being exclded from the CNC programming process.
  • Impact: These factors extremely limit productivity and increases the costs of production, and lead directly to production bottlenecks.
  • The KIPWARE Solution : By adding Kipware® conversational CAM to your CNC programming arsenal … you can get more people involved in the G code creation process and it requires no CAD/CAM, no drawing and even G code experience to quickly asnd easily create quality G code. This increase productivity … output … and increases your shop’s turnaround capability. And every clients is looking for faster turnaround.

2. Customer Expectations for Short Lead Times

  • Problem: Customers are increasingly demanding faster delivery and custom, high-quality products.
  • Impact: Machine shops must optimize workflow and  reduce downtime.
  • The Kipware Solution : Again, relying on complex expensive CAD/CAM and CAD/CAM operators slows down the CNC programming and G code creation process. Adding Kipware® conversationa CAM can help grow your shop through increased output, efficiency and faster turnaround.

3. Inceased Competition

  • Problem: Competition from low-cost shops, perhaps outside the U.S. especially in Asia, puts pressure on pricing and profitability.
  • Impact: To stay competitive, machine shops need to find ways to respond to RFQ’s faster …. but more accurate. The rush to assume AI will help generate quotes and estimates faster and easier is acually leading to just faster … inaccurate … money losing … quotes and estimates.
  • The KIPWARE Solution : Today’s shops have to find new tools to help generate both machining cycletime estimates and cost estimates and quotes faster and with hair thin margins … more accurate. Using over 40 years of real world machine shop experiences, KIPWARE quoting and estimating software are easily tailored to YOUR shop … to produce quotes and estimates that can actually be reproduced on YOUR shop floor. After all … if you cannot reproduce what is outlined in your cycletime estimate and cost quotation … you’re still guesstimating and still losing money.

These obstacles can create a complex landscape for machine shops to navigate, but they also present opportunities for innovation, improved efficiency, and differentiation from competitors. KIPWARE software are proven-in-the-trenches solutions for these opportunities.

Check out all the REAL WORLD Kipware® solutions at www.KIPWARE.com

Kenney Skonieczny – President
Kentech Inc.

Kipware® Programming Software, New Product Release Information

5 Reasons Why Kipware® Conversational CAM is the BEST

Kipware® Conversational CAM is highly regarded in the industry for various reasons. Here are five key aspects that make it stand out:

  1. User-Friendly Interface:
    • Ease of Use: Kipware® is designed for ease of use, making it accessible even for those who may not have extensive CAM programming experience. Its conversational interface allows users to quickly input data and generate G-code without the need for complex programming skills.
    • Intuitive Design: The software features an intuitive interface that guides users through the programming process, reducing the learning curve and increasing productivity.
  2. Efficiency and Speed:
    • Rapid Programming: Kipware® enables rapid creation of CNC programs, significantly reducing the time required to move from design to production. This efficiency is crucial for shops that need to maintain a fast turnaround time.
    • Minimized Errors: The conversational approach minimizes the likelihood of programming errors, ensuring that CNC machines can operate smoothly and without costly mistakes.
  3. Versatility and Flexibility:
    • Wide Range of Applications: The software supports a wide variety of machining operations, including turning, milling, and drilling. This versatility makes it suitable for different types of CNC machines and machining tasks.
    • Customizable: Kipware® allows for customization to meet specific needs, providing flexibility that can be tailored to the unique requirements of different projects and shops.
  4. Cost-Effective Solution:
    • Affordability: Compared to other CAM software solutions, Kipware® is relatively affordable, making it an excellent choice for small to medium-sized machine shops looking for cost-effective tools to enhance their capabilities.
    • No Maintenance Fees: Kipware® offers a one-time purchase option without recurring maintenance fees, providing long-term savings for businesses.
  5. Support and Training:
    • Comprehensive Support: Kipware® provides robust customer support, including online resources, tutorials, and responsive technical assistance to help users get the most out of the software.
    • Training Resources: The availability of training materials ensures that users can quickly become proficient in using the software, further enhancing its value and usability.

These factors collectively make Kipware® Conversational CAM a top choice for many CNC machining operations, offering a balance of simplicity, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.

 

General, Kipware® Programming Software

Kipware Conversational #CAM … It’s Like Driving a Sports Car !!

Kipware® Conversational CNC programming is like driving a sports car, while CAD/CAM is akin to driving an older car. Let’s break it down:

  1. Conversational CNC Programming (Sports Car):
    • Speed: Like a sports car, Kipware® conversational is agile and quick. It allows programmers to create CNC toolpaths directly at the machine interface without relying on complex software.
    • Flexibility: Just as a sports car can swiftly adapt to different road conditions, Kipware® conversational enables quick adjustments and modifications to machining operations on the fly.
    • Intuitiveness: Similar to how a sports car’s controls are designed for a seamless driving experience, Kipware conversational’s interface is user-friendly, allowing operators to input machining parameters without extensive training.
    • Efficiency: Sports cars are engineered for high performance; likewise, Kipware conversational optimizes machining processes for efficiency and productivity.
  2. CAD/CAM (Old Car):
    • Complexity: CAD/CAM systems, like older cars, can be more intricate and require a learning curve to master. They involve designing parts in CAD software and then generating toolpaths using CAM software.
    • Reliability: Just as an older car may require more maintenance and upkeep, CAD/CAM systems require regular updates and troubleshooting to ensure smooth operation.
    • Precision: CAD/CAM systems excel in producing intricate and precise machining instructions for complex parts and require extensive training to operate. When simpler parts are involved, that precision and training often removes good chipmakers from the programming process.

In essence, Kipware® conversational CNC programming software offers speed, agility, and simplicity akin to driving a sports car, while CAD/CAM provides the precision and automation capabilities reminiscent of an older car’s reliability and complexity.

We invite you to explore Kipware® conversational in more detail HERE.

Kenney Skonieczny – President
Kentech Inc.

Kipware® Programming Software, New Product Release Information

KipwareT® – Conversational CAM for TURNING – New Release

Kentech Inc. is pleased to announce new menu additions for our LIVE TOOL option for KipwareT® – Conversational CNC Programming Software for TURNING … details are below.

Live Tool Conversational CNC Programming with KipwareT®STRAIGHT SLOTTING

This new menu allows for the creation of G code to mill a slot or series of slots along the Z axis. The slots can be straight or fluted, determined by the user. The user can also use just this one menu to create code to mill an unlimited number of slots at incremental angles from each other.

Live Tool Conversational CNC Programming with KipwareT®

ANGLED SLOTTING

This new menu allows for the creation of G code to mill a slot or series of slots along the Z axis where the angle at the midpoint is different than the start / end. The user can also use just this one menu to create code to mill an unlimited number of slots at incremental angles from each other.

Version 24.3.0 is shipping standard as of 04/12/2024.

You can get full details on KipwareT® through the link below :

KipwareT – Conversational CNC Programming CAM for Turning

Kenney Skonieczny – President
Kentech Inc.

Kipware® Programming Software, New Product Release Information

KipwareM® – Conversational CAM for MILLING – New Release

Version 23.0.0 of our KipwareM® – Conversational CNC Programming Software for MILLING has been released. This release includes a multi-location feature for easy repeating SQUARE / RECTANGULAR BOSS … O RING GROOVES … ROUND BOSS machining in mutliple locations using a single menu form.

How does the multi locations meaning work?

(1) Select the conversational menu desired … square / rectangular boss, O ring groove or round boss … input the specifics as they relate to the shape and machining … size, depth of cut, cutter diameter, etc..

(2) Select LOCATIONS button and the above form will be displayed. User can enter an UNLIMITED number of locations either manually, through the reading of a DXF file where every POINT in the DXF is brough in as a location … or to have the locations automatically calculated using a BOLT CIRCLE, GRID or LINE-AT-AN-ANGLE conversational menu.

(3) Returning to the original menu … select CREATE PROGRAM … and the defined shape and G code program will be auto created with the machining taking place at each location previously defined.

A sample RECTANGULAR BOSS plot is illustrated below.

This is a terrific time saver when identical shapes are required in multiple locations. This location option wax previously available in other menus … but now has been extended to almost all conversational menus.

Version 23.0.0 is shipping standard as 02/20/2024.

UPGRADE pricing and purchase options are available in the Kipware® OnLine Store … https://www.BuyKipware.com

Kenney Skonieczny – President
Kentech Inc.

Kipware® Programming Software, New Product Release Information

KipwareM® Conversational CAM for Milling – New Feature Release – Next Tool Look Ahead & T Call

Kentech Inc. has released Version 22.1.0 of our KipwareM® – Conversational CNC Programming Software for Milling. This release contains a new feature to enable the output of the next T command … referred to some time as pre-loading the next tool … when outputting G code. Pre-loading allows the next tool to index and be ready for a tool change as the current tool is machining.

This feature is user configuravble through the SETTINGS as outlined in the screenshot below.

Pre-Loading T Command for CNC Milling Machine

KipwareM® has multiple user selectable options when it comes to tool change output … here is a brief explanation of each :

  • SINGLE LINE or DOUBLE LINE tool change commands can be configured.
  • NEXT TOOL LOOK AHEAD can be set to ON or OFF through the check box. If OFF … none of the options outlined below will be output.

NEXT TOOL LOOK AHEAD will cause the next T command to be auto-inserted into the program using Format A or Format B.

FORMAT A will cause the next tool T command to be inserted on the line following the current tool change command … an example :

T01M06 ( current tool change command )
T02 ( next T command )

FORMAT B will cause the next T command to be inserted after the first Z move line … an example :

T01M06 ( current tool change command )
G90S3000M03
G43Z1.00H01M08
T02 ( next T command )

These settings now allow the user to configure the next T command call to be most compatible with their CNC control & machine.

Kenney Skonieczny – President
Kentech Inc.

General, Kipware® Programming Software

Benefits of KIPWARE® Conversational CNC CAM vs. CAD/CAM

As we update steadly in this BLOG, there has been constantly growing interest in KIPWARE conversational CNC programming software as an alternative to traditional CAD/CAM systems. So much so that KIPWARE® is now the fastest growing brand of PC based conversational CAM in machine shops around the world. Clients are discovering that KIPWARE Conversational CNC programming offers several advantages over CAD/CAM, particularly for certain applications and user scenarios. Here are some benefits of KIPWARE® conversational CNC programming software:

1. User-Friendly Interface: KIPWARE® Conversational CNC programming software employs a user-friendly, intuitive interface that allows users without extensive CNC programming knowledge to create CNC programs easily. The software presents questions and prompts in a conversational format, guiding users through the programming process step by step.

2. Reduced Learning Curve: CAD/CAM systems can be complex and require significant training to use effectively. KIPWARE® Conversational programming is simpler to learn and use, making it more accessible to operators and less experienced CNC programmers.

3. Faster Programming: For simple and standard machining operations, KIPWARE® conversational CNC programming can be much faster than traditional CAD/CAM systems. Users can quickly input the required parameters without the need to create detailed 3D models or use extensive toolpath strategies.

4. Ideal for Prototyping and One-Off Jobs: When working on prototypes or one-off parts, KIPWARE® conversational programming can be more efficient. It allows programmers to quickly create simple toolpaths without investing significant time in CAD model creation and complex CAM strategies.

6. Accessibility for Small Shops: Smaller machining shops or hobbyists find KIPWARE® conversational CNC programming software more affordable and suitable for their needs compared to full-fledged CAD/CAM solutions, which can be expensive.

7. Simplified Updates and Maintenance: KIPWARE® Conversational CNC programming software is less complex than CAD/CAM systems, making updates and maintenance potentially more straightforward and less time-consuming.

As technology evolves, and the skills shortage has become more pronounced, KIPWARE® conversational has become one of the fastest growing brands in machine shops around the world.

Check out the full KIPWARE® line of conversational CAM here : https://kentechinc.com/kipware-programming-software/

Kenney Skonieczny – President
Kentech Inc.

Kipware® Programming Software, New Product Release Information

There’s a NEW MEANING for the Acronym CAD/CAM …

The success of Kipware® conversational CNC programming software … conversational CAM … has meant a new meaning has been given to the acronym CAD/CAM.

  • NO LONGER is creating a DRAWING the start point for CNC programming .
  • In fact, NO LONGER is the entire CNC programming process driven by a drawing.

Kipware® conversational has taken the concept of creating G code to another level. A level that includes ease-of-use … a level that invites everyone ( not just CAD/CAM users ) to creater and explore G code creation … a level where speed and increased efficiency is a standard when creating G code programs. And as a result … the new meaning for the acronym CAD/CAM has been crowned :

  • C = CANCEL
  • A = ALL
  • D = DRAWING
  • /
  • C = CONCENTRATE
  • A = ABSOLUTELY on
  • M = MACHINING

Join us in the fight to END CAD/CAM OVERKILL … and spend more time MAKING CHIPS … NOT DRAWINGS … with Kipware® conversational CNC programming software.

Kenney Skonieczny – President
Kentech Inc.

Kipware® Programming Software, New Product Release Information

NEW RELEASE : Conversational 3D Programming for KipwareM® – 3D Conversational Hole Fillet Menu

Kentech Inc. and Kipware® conversational continue to show their innovative and pioneering  spirit with the latest release for our conversational 3D option for KipwareM® – Conversational CAM / CNC Programming Software for MILLING.

KipwareM® is the only application on the market that gives users the ability to create 3D G code for standard 3D shapes like CONES … TAPERED HOLES … TAPERED Square &  Rectangular BOSS … TAPERED Square & Rectangular POCKET … Horizontal & Vertical TROUGHS … Female BENDING DIES … CURVED SURFACES … BOWLS … RADIUS EDGES … TAPERED RADIUS EDGES … HOLE FILLETS … and we’re constantly adding new options based on user requests !!

Our latest version … 22.0.0 … now includes standard our conversational 3D HOLE FILLET menu in the 3D conversational option. Using a simple fill-in-the-blank form … using no drawing, no CAD  and no drawing experience required …. users can quickly and easily create G code to machine fillet radii on holes. Any size fillet … using any size tool … using a square end mill or ball end mill … can be programmed in seconds with this powerful and groundbreaking option. Below are some images and details.

Above is an example of what we refer to as a HOLE FILLET.

Conversational CNC programming for a 3D Hole Fillet is now available in KipwareM®The above image is a screenshot of the conversational 3D HOLE FILLET screen in KipwareM®. Simple plain english inputs … along with the ability to select a square or ball end mill … combined with the users ability to select climb or conventional milling make this menu so very powerful.

Conversational CNC programming for a 3D Hole Fillet is now available in KipwareM®Above is an image of a 3D plot of the resulting toolpath … all created using a fill-in-the-blank form … no CAD nor CAD / drawing experience required.

This new menu was created through a request from a client and we continue to pursue new conversational menu options based on user request and our own real world experiences. This new 3D HOLE FILLET menu is now included STANDARD with all KipwareM® w 3D option purchases.

Kenney Skonieczny – President
Kentech Inc.