The use of the HSi software solution HScad allows the production planner to
automatically calculate the target times of milled parts and their manufacturing
costs based on CAD data. This solution delivers significant time savings. Better
yet, the application also represents an excellent choice for the preparation of
pre-calculations, engineering-related calculations, comparison calculations of
supplier quotations and piece time calculations during production planning.

The program starts with the automatic analysis of the corresponding 3D-CAD model
in terms of its machining parameters and determines the tools with which volumes
and surfaces can be machined in the most effective manner. Or, to put it more
accurately, it determines the rough-machining volumes and the surfaces that need
to be smoothed. This step is followed by a sorting of the tools by direction of
machining, corner radius and accessibility and by the size of the
volume/surface. Next, the program calculates the machining paths and assigns the
read CAD feature elements to the HSi form element modules. After generating the
operation stages necessary for the target time calculation, the planner can
control the result in the 3D model. Surfaces that cannot be smoothed are marked
in the 3D model, and the time calculation is disabled for the associated
operation stages. The automatic target time calculation incorporates the cutting
values stored in the corresponding HSi technology base®. A calculation with the
target times is generated based on the HScad analysis module, and a rule-based
procedure is used to determine the clamping and set-up times. The calculation
also provides the user with all other process modules available in the
technology base. The original costs are calculated by means of a stored
calculation pattern. The planner is afforded an exceptional degree of
transparency by, among other things, a separate listing of set-up and unit
costs, a detailed overhead calculation and a diagram of the cost distribution.

HSi solutions set themselves apart by a shallow learning curve, superior ease of
use and an intuitive Web-based interface. Since they can always be adapted to
the latest changes and developments, the software modules provide for more
planning reliability and investment security. They run on all common operating
systems. Ready-to-use connections and implementations already exist for SAP,
BAAN, eEVOLUTION, FEPA, GODYO P4, IFOS, INFOR, INFORMING, NAVISION, PSIPENTA,
WINCARAT and others.