New Multi-Head Nesting Technology Boosts Manufacturing Efficiency, Reducing Cycle Times and Maximizing Material Utilization
NORTH KINGSTOWN, RI, Apr 10, 2025 – Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division is redefining automation and efficiency in woodworking and fabrication with new advancements available in its CAD CAM software, ALPHACAM. ALPHACAM introduces multi-head nesting capabilities, expanded machining automation, and streamlined workflows designed to help manufacturers maximize productivity and material utilization across industries. The upgraded automation features help reduce production time compared to manual methods, with some machining and programming tasks taking seven minutes instead of an hour. The update also supports importing solid and CAD files for simulation, reflecting the growing use of solid models in the woodworking industry. Multi-head nesting enables shops to optimize machine capacity by leveraging multiple router heads simultaneously. The software adjusts nesting strategies based on sheet size, head spacing, and production needs. It helps shorten cycle times and maintain accuracy. The improvements are relevant for cabinetry, furniture manufacturing, and aerospace industries, where efficiency can help reduce production time and support higher output.
“With the latest ALPHACAM, we’re pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in automated wood and stone manufacturing,” said Perry Boyett, sales & services director NAFTA – ALPHACAM at Hexagon. “Manufacturers can now leverage twin-head and multi-head nesting strategies that dynamically adjust based on sheet size, head spacing, and production needs, all while maintaining optimal material yield.” ALPHACAM introduces advanced automation tools that simplify programming and streamline processes, helping manufacturers improve operational efficiency. Key updates include:
- Enhanced Solid Model Importing – Expanding ALPHACAM’s ability to ingest solid models and work with 3D solid modeling tools such as SolidWorks and Autodesk Inventor, allowing streamlined transition from design to production.
- Automated Feature Recognition – New capabilities automatically detect machining features from vendor-supplied models, reducing manual intervention and accelerating production planning.
- Optimized Toolpath Strategies – Advanced algorithms improve material yield and reduce machining time by refining toolpath sequencing and cutting parameters.
Manufacturers using ALPHACAM have seen efficiency improvements. One boat manufacturer reduced production planning time by half, and an aerospace company reduced manual nesting time from four hours to 10 minutes using ALPHACAM’s automation features.
In addition to time savings, ALPHACAM delivers on programming standardization, capturing legacy knowledge within the software. It helps to upskill entry-level workers. They only need to choose the outline style, the software that handles the proper speed, what cutter to use, and the settings. It helps manufacturers improve worker productivity, reduce mistakes and waste, and make consistent results. For small and mid-sized businesses, ALPHACAM offers a scalable and cost-effective solution tailored to their specific machining needs. The flexible licensing model ensures that companies only pay for the required features, making high-end automation accessible to a broader range of businesses. ALPHACAM is also gaining traction in public-sector manufacturing, with installations at U.S. military bases and government facilities. The software has been instrumental in fabricating everything from security signage to custom architectural elements for government buildings.
Source: Hexagon
About Hexagon
Hexagon AB, established in 1975, specializes in digital reality solutions integrating sensors, software, and autonomous technologies. Headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, Hexagon operates in over 50 countries and employs approximately 24,800 people. The company serves various industries, including construction, mining, agriculture, aerospace, automotive, defense, and manufacturing. Its offerings encompass reality capture measurement, intelligent positioning, situational intelligence, and industrial design solutions. In 2023, Hexagon reported annual revenues of approximately €5.44 billion. Since 2000, Hexagon has completed over 170 strategic acquisitions, enhancing its position in digital transformation and enabling clients to utilize data for improved efficiency, productivity, quality, and safety across various applications.