Uhlmann Deploys SolidWorks

Uhlmann has implemented SolidWorks for 3-D tool design, with a SolidCAM engine that generates programs for the milling machines. The system supports tool development precision and consistency by eliminating human interpretation of 2-D drawings.

Uhlmann Packaging Systems (Towaco, NJ) has completed implementation of an integrated CAD CAM solution that uses SolidWorks design software from SolidWorks Corp.

“Starting last year, we began generating model drawings for all of the tools,” says Markus Haid, managing director. “The implementation process was completed at year’s end. Now for all tool design we are completely on SolidWorks.”

Using SolidWorks, engineers develop 3-D models of blister tools. Integrated SolidCAM CAM software then takes the dimensions and generates the program to run the milling machines.

Previously, designers created 2-D renderings using Unix-based ME 10 software. A programmer then had to interpret the 2-D drawings for creating a program to run the computer numeric controlled (C&C) milling units.

The 2-D process leaves room for programmer interpretation.

“With SolidWorks, we know we can manufacture the tool when we create the model. Then, you have control of the cavity design through to the milling machine,” says Haid. “There is less likelihood of unforeseen or unwanted variations from the design phase to machine programming.”

“This also guarantees that production tools we make for customers will be identical to the tooling we make for their smaller-scale-machine production for stability testing,” Haid adds.