System Modules

Cimagraphi 9.0 is composed of the following utilities (known as modules): Trace, GraphiCAD, Picture to Part, and Mill. These modules all use a graphic human-interface termed "WYSIWYG" , i.e. "What You See Is What You Get," meaning that the displayed image will be 100% compatible with the produced item.

Trace

Trace icon

The Trace module allows you to use images from many sources including the web, digital cameras and desktop scanners. The module enables you to automatically produce vector geometries from these images that are essential to the machining process. Various smoothing operations can be applied to any number of scanned images in order to reach a geometry that accurately reflects the source image. The Trace module receives input from the variety of sources and sends/receives geometry files from other modules.

GraphiCAD

GraphiCAD icon

The GraphiCAD module is used to work with geometries that involve precise dimensions. Such geometries are common in mechanical drawings and architectural designs. When using the GraphiCAD module you can combine different geometries by using such features as libraries and the cut and paste options. A powerful chaining feature (connecting graphical elements in chain) is also included.

The GraphiCAD module also handles all text editing. This includes complete control over text attributes such as font, size, slant and alignment. Handling text includes all the tools required for positioning and aligning text in blocks or on curves.

The GraphiCAD module has several unique tools built in. The Font Editor can be used to create and modify fonts. The Dial '&' Ruler Generator is used for fast and easy creation of complex dials and rulers. The Stack Wizard enables automatic creation of signs with varying texts.

The GraphiCAD module can receive GCD, CAD(V.4) , TXT(V.4), RLF, DXF, EPS, HPGL(PLT), and ASCII text files, and geometry files created by the other modules, including all raster formats. The GraphiCAD module can send geometry files to other modules of the system.

Picture to Part

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The Picture to Part (P2P) module takes two dimensional (2D) geometries created by the other modules, or other software, for example AutoCAD™, and embosses/debosses them to create complex three-dimensional (3D) surfaces. This module is used for generating 3D artistic works such as medals, coins, complex molds for toys, plastics, fancy bottles, food molds, etc. Picture to Part enables creation of the surface by vector geometry, shade analysis or freehand sculpting.

Mill

Mill icon

The Mill module combines geometries and surfaces created in the other modules (GraphiCAD, Trace, and Picture to Part). After combining the geometries, you will define cutting tools for each step of the milling process. When the tool definition is completed, you will define the controls of the machining process by simple input screens. Once this information is completed, the CNC instructions run through the computer's communication ports, network, or disk files, to the machine controller.

Any job may be projected on a 3D collection of surfaces that can be imported from STEP, IGES, VDA, P2P, or a laser scanner. You can also define your own surfaces.

The Mill module uses a generic post processor to output the toolpath to a wide range of machines.

The cutting process may now begin under the machine's supervision. Calculations executed in the Mill module are time-consuming. Therefore a sophisticated time-sharing algorithm allows you to construct another job while calculations are taking place.

The Mill module does all the calculations in a 3D database. You define the tools to be used. For example, you define Conical and/or Spherical tools for complex geometry outputs such as sharp corners and 3D offset. The input for the Mill module includes geometries and surfaces, while output consists of CNC code or geometries.