ModuleWorks released version 2026.04 of its digital manufacturing software components, adding GPU-accelerated machine simulation and extending VoluMill and SmartRoughing to multi-axis and turning operations.
VoluMill for Area Roughing & Rotary Machining
The update expands VoluMill area roughing and rotary machining to multi-axis and turning applications. The system controls chip load and tool engagement to maintain stable cutting conditions and consistent tool loads across corners, closed pockets, and complex transitions. It applies trochoidal motion where required and uses features like Adaptive Chip Thickness Control (ACTC) to regulate cutting forces and reduce load spikes.
Integration with the ModuleWorks 5-axis core allows CAD/CAM systems to deploy multi-axis roughing and turning strategies within existing workflows.
Automatic 3+2 SmartRoughing
ModuleWorks has integrated SmartRoughing technology to 3+2 axis machining. The system uses tooling data from Kennametal combined with machining physics to calculate cutting depths across multiple directions. It adjusts stepovers, feeds, and speeds to support material removal in a single operation, while applying height limits to reduce unnecessary toolpath movements.
GPU Support Extended to Machine Simulation
ModuleWorks has expanded GPU support to machine simulation, building on existing GPU-accelerated cutting simulation. The system processes stock updates and collision detection for parametric and mesh-based tools, with automatic fallback to CPU processing when required.
NGSP WebApp
ModuleWorks also introduced a web-based version of Next Generation Shop Floor Programming (NGSP). The application runs across CNC controllers, mobile devices, and desktop systems, supporting flexible deployment and consistent operation across different manufacturing IT environments.
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.