DESIGN ENGINEERING & SERVICE Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as DES) was established on March 29, 2007. For over 19 years, DES has been engaged in mold design, mold manufacturing, and mold component production for various industries, including electronics, automotive, semiconductor components, and plastic molds. Most of its customers are Japanese companies.
To meet the demand for high-precision work within shorter lead times, DES has continuously strengthened its capabilities in both machinery and human resources.
DES’s key strengths in the mold manufacturing industry include:
・High-precision manufacturing capability at a level of 2 microns
・Fast service supported by a two-shift operation system
・Highly skilled workforce, with many employees having over 15 years of experience
In addition, DES places strong emphasis on sustainable business practices, actively working to reduce environmental impact and currently pursuing ISO 14000 certification.
Mr. Jirasak, the company’s executive, places great importance on adopting advanced technologies and modern machinery. He believes that investing in technology enables the company to produce high-quality products and enhance its competitiveness in the market.
From 3-Axis Challenges to 5-Axis Manufacturing
Previously, DES utilized CAM-TOOL for 3-axis machining, which already provided a high level of precision. However, as mold designs became increasingly complex, multiple setups were required to machine different sides of a workpiece. This led to several challenges, including:
・Accumulated errors from repeated re-positioning
・Increased machining errors
・Longer setup times
These issues prompted DES to seek a solution that could reduce process steps while further improving accuracy. To overcome these limitations, DES implemented CAM-TOOL 5 Axis in combination with a MAKINO 5-axis machining center. This enabled the company to complete high-precision machining in a single setup.
As a result, the following improvements in production efficiency were clearly achieved:
・Improved accuracy by eliminating multiple workpiece setups
・Reduced machining time by using shorter tools
(without lowering cutting conditions, as vibration from long tool setups is minimized)
・Reduced costs for fixtures (jigs and fixtures)
・Reduced tooling costs
▲ 5-axis machining center from MAKINO used with CAM-TOOL 5 Axis by CGS ASIA
One of the key advantages of CAM-TOOL is its operational continuity. Since DES staff were already familiar with CAM-TOOL for 3-axis machining, transitioning to 5-axis machining was not difficult. By building on their existing knowledge, employees were able to reduce training time, minimize human error, begin operations quickly.
CAM-TOOL 5 Axis Functions that Enhance Manufacturing
CAM-TOOL is a CAM software developed by CGS to support the machining of high-precision and complex components, such as molds and advanced industrial parts. DES had already been using CAM-TOOL for 3-axis machining, and with the addition of 5-axis functionality, they were able to smoothly expand to 5-axis operations.
■ 5-Axis Conversion Function
The Conversion Function allows users to directly convert 3-axis toolpaths into 5-axis machining operations. In addition, the Smoothing Control function ensures smooth and continuous movement of rotary and tilt axes, reducing sudden or jerky machine motions.
Results
・No need to relearn an entirely new system
・Reduced software learning time
・Simplified programming process
・Faster adoption of 5-axis machining
■ Machine Simulation Function
The Machine Simulation Function is designed to provide fast and highly accurate machining simulations. It enables collision detection between tools, holders, workpieces, fixtures, and machine components. It also verifies the movement range of each axis based on NC data, ensuring that machine motions stay within operational limits.
Additionally, the simulation uses the same interface as the Simultaneous 5-axis Editor, allowing users to work seamlessly within a single environment. This simplifies operation and enables quick program verification before actual machining.
Results
・Reduced risk of machine collisions
・Fewer operational errors
・Improved safety in the manufacturing process
DES Moves Toward the Future with 5-Axis Manufacturing
For DES, adopting 5-axis machining represents a significant step in enhancing production capabilities. Mr. Jirasak believes that 5-axis technology will become essential in the manufacturing industry in the future—especially when combined with high-performance software, enabling smoother and more efficient production processes.
Since DES employees were already familiar with CAM-TOOL for 3-axis machining, the transition to 5-axis was smooth. By leveraging their existing knowledge, they achieved:
✓ Reduced training time
✓ Fewer human errors
✓ Faster operational readiness
