(1888PressRelease)
June 25, 2008 - Delcam, a leading developer of advanced Computer-Aided Design & Manufacturing (CADCAM) software solutions has now launched ArtCAM 2009, their latest software range for the signage industry.
ArtCAM 2009 enables sign-makers to either hand draw or design their sign in a familiar CAD package before importing the scanned image or data directly into the software. Alternatively, designs can be created directly in ArtCAM itself, providing sign-makers with a versatile approach to their design process.
Working from a flat or three dimensional view ArtCAM users can specify the height, depth and shape that they would like to add to specific areas of their artwork. Similar to Photoshop, ArtCAM provides an easy to use layer system where design sections can be put on individual layers, ideal for making any later or additional changes.
If the designer wishes to create a low relief background for their sign, perhaps a picture to go behind some text, ArtCAM’s new patented embossing technology is extremely useful. With ArtCAM 2009 the user can take any 3D model and freely move and rotate it into position. A custom perspective effect can be applied to the model and then the ‘Embossing Tool’ will reduce the model within seconds to almost any height on the design, whilst still maintaining all the prominent details and illusion of depth from the original model.
For the lettering the user can choose from ArtCAM’s true-type font library or custom make their fonts using ArtCAM’s ‘Font Editor’.
To add a highly textured or decorative finish to the sign, rather than sandblasting or hand carving, ArtCAM provides a vast array of texture and sculpting tools. Alternatively users can use their own personalised sculpture brushes created using their preferred imported textures or own tool design.
Another particularly useful tool is ArtCAM’s ‘Inlay Wizard’. This wizard enables the creation of precise male and female parts for inlaid text and graphics that will generate a perfectly flat surface finish. For illuminated signs, this will also ensure that all unsightly shadows are avoided.
At the end of the design process approval is often required before machining can take place. To do this, rather than taking screenshots or sending large cumbersome files that may block e-mail accounts to the authorising parties, ArtCAM’s new 3D PDF viewer becomes invaluable. Users can simply click on ‘save 3D view’ for an accurate file that can then easily be e-mailed to all parties involved. This can then be opened with an Adobe Acrobat reader and tilted and turned to see all sides of the model.
Once happy with the design the sign-maker can then select the tools they want to use for machining from a database of over 250 routers and machine tools. To prevent material wastage the software not only nests the pieces to be cut on their selected material according to their true shape, but it can also run a simulation of the pieces being machined using the chosen tools and the given material block dimensions. This has proven extremely beneficial to current ArtCAM customers as they can change their chosen tools before machining and recalculate the toolpaths, saving them not only time but protecting their bottom line.
To find out more about ArtCAM 2009 and the support provided go to www.artcam.com or http://forum.artcam.com and see how sign-makers worldwide are currently using ArtCAM. Alternatively you can e-mail: 2009 ( @ ) artcam dot com dot
About Delcam:
Delcam is one of the world's leading suppliers of advanced CADCAM software product development solutions. Formally founded in 1977, after initial development work at Cambridge University, UK it now has subsidiaries in North America, Europe and Asia. Delcam's software is used by more than 20,000 organisations in over 80 countries.
About ArtCAM:
The ArtCAM software product range provides a unique CAD modelling and CNC CAM machining solution. ArtCAM allows the creation of high quality products from 2D artwork faster than ever thought possible.
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