ModuleWorks has released version 2026.08 of its software components for CAD/CAM vendors, CNC control makers, machine tool builders, and cutting tool vendors. The release spans five areas: toolpath generation, physics-based automation, GPU-accelerated simulation, shopfloor programming, and the Manufacturing Data Exchange Specification (MDES).
Toolpath Updates
Auto 3+2 Roughing analyzes part geometry to select tool orientations. ModuleWorks says this can reduce setups and improve cycle efficiency. SmartRoughing with VoluMill brings the VoluMill pattern into SmartRoughing, with automatic optimization of cutting depth, width, spindle speed, and nominal feed while retaining VoluMill’s dynamic feed reductions in corners and high-engagement zones. SuperFinish on NURBS surfaces combines mesh-based calculation with NURBS-based toolpath accuracy in a single cycle for finishing on mold-and-die surfaces.
Physics-Based Automation
A SmartRoughing physics report shows generated slices and selected process parameters after each optimization, giving users greater visibility into automated roughing decisions. FeedControl supports tapered end mills and convex tip end mills for mold-and-die work. A Review and Optimize Process Constraints step lets users review and adjust calculated limits such as chip load, forces, and power before final feed optimization.
GPU-Accelerated Simulation
GPU-accelerated engagement tracking for milling speeds up engagement analysis for complex toolpaths through multi-core processing and optional GPU acceleration. GPU-accelerated material removal for grinding extends GPU-powered stock calculation into grinding. A pixel-accurate GPU renderer for thread cutting and grinding provides sharper visualization for inspection and reliable analysis.
Shopfloor Programming
Next-generation shopfloor programming adds automatic machining-direction and feature-type suggestions that combines both during feature selection. Section-based hole machining automatically recognizes each section within a hole shape so each can be machined independently.
Expanded MDES Support
The Manufacturing Data Exchange Specification (MDES) equipment starter export adds MDES-compliant equipment-data export to MachSim. CAM systems integrating MachSim can export standardized machine setup data to compatible downstream systems, including on-machine collision-avoidance systems.
ModuleWorks 2026.08 is available for download through the company’s customer website.
Source: ModuleWorks
About ModuleWorks
ModuleWorks, founded in 2003 and based in Aachen, Germany, develops CAD/CAM software components for toolpath generation, multi-axis machining, simulation, collision avoidance, and machine visualization. Its software is used in industries including digital dentistry, optics, precision machining, laser manufacturing, woodworking, additive manufacturing, and digital factory operations. The company works with more than 200 partners and supports over 500,000 installed software seats worldwide. ModuleWorks employs more than 200 people across offices in Germany, Romania, Ukraine, and the UK. It supplies software components to CAD/CAM vendors, CNC control makers, machine tool builders, and cutting tool manufacturers. The company has invested about 1,700 person-years in developing toolpath and simulation technologies used in manufacturing workflows.
