GibbsCAM macro capabilities directly access information stored in SolidWorks' design tables to automate CNC program creation. If one or more values in the design table are modified, GibbsCAM reportedly can automatically make adjustments to the process and update the corresponding toolpath.

"SolidWorks users viewed just how easy it is to manufacture their parts with GibbsCAM," states Bill Gibbs, president and founder of Gibbs and Associates. "Going from model to metal just doesn't get any easier."

According to the company, the SolidWorks-to-GibbsCAM transfer add-in allows models to be directly transferred with a single menu selection within a SolidWorks session to GibbsCAM for NC programming. GibbsCAM can also directly read native SolidWorks part or assembly files, including imported data, with the ability to select between various configurations. The company reports that this interoperability enables SolidWorks designs to be operated on without losing valuable geometric information as well as accommodation for design revisions.

http://management.cadalyst.com/cadman/article/articleDetail.jsp?id=407806&ref=25