Wessling, November 15th, 2024.
Siemens and AixPath offer an integrated control solution for Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF) machines, which ensures uniform communication between the system components. This solution enables integrated control of all actuators and sensors and thus significantly reduces the engineering effort for a machine manufacturer.
From now on, the RAYLASE SP-ICE-3 control card will also be directly supported as part of the control solution, enabling access to the extended functionality of modern AM-specific beam deflection units, such as the RAYLASE AM-MODULE III.
With the innovative solution from the three partners, machine manufacturers can now benefit from a software framework that maps the complete control architecture of an L-PBF machine.
Thanks to the integration, the AM-relevant functions of the SP-ICE-3 and the AM-MODULE III are implemented directly in the Siemens software process chain (NX AM Build Job Preparation and NX AM Build Processor) and in particular in the central machine control software (“Machine Control Software AP MCSW”) from AixPath.
As a result, the machine control software (MCSW) can not only handle general machine control tasks via the connection to Siemens control technology but can now also directly utilize the full potential of modern beam deflection units. This efficient and future-proof control solution offers L-PBF machine manufacturers optimum conditions for current and future machine generations and also significantly accelerates machine development.
Convenient use of other SP-ICE-3-specific software tools
Accurate distance measurement is crucial in many modern manufacturing processes, from welding thin sheets and bipolar plates to busbars in battery production. Precision in these applications ensures high-quality results, reduces errors, and enhances efficiency. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) has emerged as a leading technology for achieving such precision due to its ability to capture topographies with micrometer resolution. Recognizing the importance of precise distance measurement, RAYLASE introduces the RAYDIME METER, an OCT-based sensor designed to deliver unparalleled accuracy and integration capabilities for various industrial applications.
Using the SP-ICE-3 control card in the AixPath MCSW as the executing component of the build job generated by Siemens NX also enables the uncomplicated integration of other software solutions that are available for the SP-ICE-3 control card. For example, it is possible to use the RAYLASE PROCESS DATA ANALYZER (PDA). With this software tool for detailed process analysis, position data from the deflection unit, data from actuators and laser sources as well as sensor signals can be combined and precisely evaluated for melt pool monitoring, for example. This way, for instance, melt pool heat maps can be created quickly and easily with the PDA.
Furthermore, the effects of adjustments to the exposure strategy can be directly analyzed and further optimized without time-consuming trials in the powder.
AixPath will be represented at the Siemens stand in hall 12.1 booth D101 at formnext in Frankfurt from November 19-22, 2024. Here, the integration of the SP-ICE-3 card will be presented in a live demo.
Further details on this integrated control solution for L-PBF machines are available at https://www.siemens.com/global/en/company/fairs-events/fairs/formnext.html and https://aixpath.com/mcsw/
About Siemens
With its NX platform, Siemens offers flexible, powerful software with next-generation design and manufacturing solutions. The additive manufacturing portfolio delivers solutions from design and build preparation to versatile machine connectivity solutions.
Furthermore, Siemens' market-leading portfolio of controllers and peripherals, drives, HMIs, industrial communication and industrial PCs provides the platform for planning, implementing and operating innovative additive manufacturing production systems.
About AixPath
AixPath GmbH is a technology and software development company founded in Aachen in 2009 as a spin-off from the Fraunhofer IPT and ModuleWorks GmbH. It offers customized software solutions and software development services in the field of Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) for a wide range of manufacturing technologies. Among other things, AixPath integrates OEM software modules into Siemens NX and develops plug-ins for Siemens NX.
About RAYLASE
RAYLASE GmbH is a leading developer and manufacturer of high-precision laser deflection units and is renowned for its highly integrated, application-specific scanning solutions. The robust product design and production in an ISO class 7 clean room make RAYLASE systems the optimal solution at the customer's production site. With tailored solutions, the company supports a wide range of applications and at the same time emphasizes its standing as a reliable partner in the further development of laser technologies.
About Siemens
Siemens Digital Industries (DI) is a leading innovator in automation and digitalization. In close cooperation with partners and customers, DI is driving the digital transformation in the process and manufacturing industry. With its Digital Enterprise portfolio, Siemens offers companies of all sizes end-to-end products, solutions and services for the integration and digitalization of the entire value chain. Optimized for the specific requirements of the respective industries, the unique portfolio enables customers to increase their productivity and flexibility. DI is continuously expanding its portfolio through innovations and the integration of future technologies. Siemens Digital Industries is headquartered in Nuremberg and employs around 72,000 people worldwide.
KONTAKT MARKETING / PRESSE:
RAYLASE GmbH
Harnesh Singh
Director of Sales & Marketing
Argelsrieder Feld 2+4
82234 Wessling
Tel. +49 8153 9999 699
E-Mail: marketing@raylase.de