standard G-code. That also means we can build postproces- sors for different CAD-CAM packages as the medical device market dictates. ME: How important is the 3-D simulation offered in your new Helitronic Tool Studio v1.9 software? Sinkora: Three-dimensional simulation is critical to speeding the design of new products, as the engineer can immediately see what is and isn’t possible given the reality of grinding wheels and machine moves. He can also see weak points, like an overly aggressive rake, and make adjust- ments on the fly. The 3-D simulation also gives the machine operator a great deal of confidence in running the machine and it’s a great learning tool. Plus full 3-D simulation—to include the machine, wheel and workholding—is necessary for eliminating the risk of collision. Finally, 3-D simulation enables us to automatically optimize the feed rate based on the volume of material being removed at each moment. We even offer a plug-in that automatically calculates the center of mass of the tool based on the 3-D model and then helps you tweak the tool balance. That’s important given the individual parameterization discussed earlier, as tools are generally now asymmetrical. And of course users want to employ high-speed machining, where tool balance is critical. ME: What other medical software do you offer, such as the NXis Ortho package for 3-D simulation of your grinding machines? Sinkora: We offer Helitronic Tool Studio for cutting tools and NXis Ortho for orthopedic implants. The NXis solution can also be applied to other non-cutting tool components, such as turbine components. ME: How does the current economic environment appear for manufacturing? Sinkora: It’s extremely good for precision grinding. Our customers are very busy and need to increase capacity. At the same time, it’s difficult to find enough qualified people to run machines. So manufacturers turn to the machine tool suppli- ers with the best applications team and the ability to deliver flexible, automated solutions. That’s us! ME Edited by Patrick Waurzyniak; for more info, contact him at (313) 425-3256 or send an e-mail to pwaurzyniak@sme.org.