The key element to Shearline's success was its ability to minimise assembly complexity by a reduction in part count. This was achieved by the capability of Shearline's single part, complex, integral feature machining.

A main assembly was initially designed in 3D and, from the solid geometry created, Shearline, via software file conversion, produced tooling paths that were subsequently used to manufacture the particular component.

Simon Newell, R&D Engineer at Linx Printing Technology, commented, "We are delighted with the input we received from Shearline for the development of this component.

A number of parts in the assembly contained compound angles and, due to sculptured reference surfaces, were very difficult to hold and would not be possible on other types of machines.

"In addition, Shearline successfully created tool paths that not only required movement in the X and Y planes, but also at the same time in the Z plane.

Having Shearline's engineering capability offers an approach that is efficient for high and lower volume manufacture and gives the scope and flexibility for continued change in the search for product excellence."

www.shearline.co.uk