Delcam is launching the first 64-bit version of its ArtCAM software for artistic applications such as engraving, woodworking and signmaking with a series of free webinars on 26th and 28th July and 4th August for its ArtCAM range.

Full details on the event times and registration process can be found at http://www.artcam.com/events

The new ArtCAM release will enable users to work with much larger and more complex designs, and make all calculations faster as 64-bit computers are able to use larger amounts of memory. The most significant benefits being seen by customers who need to produce large 3D signs or want to engrave items containing very high levels of detail.

The new release also includes a number of new options to enable higher quality results:
  • The addition of a "contour blend" tool will improve the quality of text by giving centreline-ridged or smooth-domed shapes ideal for engraved-style text. The improved quality is most apparent at any intersections within letters. The same tool will also help with texture effects that intersect or overlap, and for producing complex borders on items like picture frames.
  • Improvement in the quality of vectors generated directly from bitmaps imported from 2D drawing packages such as Corel Draw (or scanned from artwork or photographs) means quicker and better results that require minimal editing and clean-up.
  • The node editing tools have been enhanced with the ability to move points and automatically produce smooth curves around the shape or to maintain any sharp angles. In addition, mid-points can be displayed automatically on any curve to simplify the creation of more complex geometry.
  • The introduction of the "cookie cutter" option allows the user to define a relief with its vector boundaries, and then cut and paste it between models or into the clip-art library for future use.
  • The range of standard clip-art supplied with ArtCAM has been extended with an extra 130 reliefs, including architectural, floral, frame and texture examples. For ArtCAM JewelSmith users, an additional 150 components have been added to the component library, with automatic positioning of the collets relative to the shank as they are imported.


For more information about the ArtCAM 2011 range you can go to: www.artcam.com