SigmaNEST Beveling Module

Using the SigmaNEST Advanced Bevel module, you can import a solid part directly from a 3D modeling program, using feature recognition to automatically define bevel properties. The bevel module also makes taking a 2D drawing and assigning bevel properties to that drawing possible. SigmaNEST will then create a tool path and nest a bevel part taking into consideration not only part spacing, but the spacing needed to utilize lead-ins and corner loops.

There are three different types of beveling supported by SigmaNEST: single head dynamic, triple head & single head following. These different types of beveling produce top knife, bottom knife, top land, bottom land, K and variable bevels.

The ability to bevel is contingent upon your machine. Beveling can be used with certain laser, plasma, oxyfuel and waterjet machines.

If you are interested in learning more about beveling, SigmaTEK has a training class dedicated specifically to bevel part creation and technology table edits. Contact your Regional Sales Manager for more information.

SigmaNEST Feature: Automation

These days it's not unusual for customers to place small orders with short lead times and expect low prices. Fabricators are now forced to adjust their processes to accommodate customers while remaining competitive. While operators are busy processing orders, the machine cut time to on time ratio is estimated to between 40-65 percent on a non-automated system.

Adding a second machine may be seen as the most logical way to improve efficiencies and produce double the amount of parts, but the cost of the machine isn't the only added expense. For example there are costs associated with a new machine operator, more floor space and a raise in your operating overhead. With a non-automated machine, the bottle neck isn't how fast a new machine can cut parts, it's how fast an operator can load and unload. In fact, with newer machines achieving even better cut times, it becomes even more challenging for an operator to keep up with the work load.

Another approach offering a solution to the problem of efficiency and productivity time would be adding the right type of automation and proper training. Often this approach can increase the aforementioned percentage to between 80 and 90 percent, simply by adding systems such as load/unload.

Maximizing the amount of time the machine can cut parts in relation to the overall time can reduce manual labor and help meet shorter lead times.

To learn more about how your company can use automation to maximize efficiency call 513-674-0005.

Tech Tip: SQL Studio for Database Back-up

Has your computer station ever crashed or your database ever been corrupted? Do you have a back-up database or have you had to recreate and try to manually recover your database? Did you know that you can have an automatic back-up of your database occur every night?

The first step in setting up an automatic database back-up is to obtain Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio Express which is now included on the SigmaNEST Version 9.1 DVD or it can be downloaded from the Microsoft website for free. After installing, follow the steps below:

1. Create a script using a text editor and store the file in a logical location

FileName:

SNSQLBackup.sql 

Text for Back-up Script:

BACKUP DATABASE databasename
  TO DISK = 'fullpathtobackup.bak'
  WITH FORMAT;
GO

2. Open the Task Scheduler and setup a basic Task
3. Create a name for the task. (Example: SigmaNEST Database Backup)
4. Select how often to run this task by selecting the Trigger tab (Example: Daily)
   
5. Select when to run the task (Example 8:00:00 pm)
6. Select the action "start a program"
7. Select the Program Script (Example "C:\Program Files\Microsoft SQLServer\90\Tools\Binn\SQLCMD.EXE" or C:\Program Files\Microsoft SQL Server\100\Tools\Binn\SQLCMD.EXE)
8. Add arguments: -S LOCALHOST\SQLEXPRESS -i "FullPathToScript.sql" Example -S LOCALHOST\SigmaNEST -i "c:\Databasebackups\SNSQLBackup.sql"

Run the task to test!

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