This European initiative is looking at ways of increasing automation in toolmaking by reducing programming times: by 90% for pre-milling moulds in high speed milling (HSM) machines; and by 95% for generating electrode geometry and NC programmes. Also, by integrating HSM machines for electrode generation and EDM machines for mould production, it is hope to increase machine tool efficiency from 16% to 50%.

The Dutch research organisation, TNO, has completed the specification and concept design phase of NC toolpath software and is now working on the detailed design. In Germany, the Fraunhofer Institute has finalised the detailed specification of the HSM and EDM processes, which will support the definition of areas for HSM or EDM machining on a given part, taking into consideration the most economical solution for the whole process chain.

Meanwhile the High Wycombebased Centre for Rapid Design & Manufacturer and Spanish partner, Fatronik, have continued work on the machine-tool loading and unloading processes, which are being designed to feed EDM machines.

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