Software System Speeds Cutting Tool Selection

Kennametal’s Novo digital tool and process planning application is now capable of connected via the cloud to tool management, e-commerce and other shop systems, reducing data errors and reducing non-value-added value transfer

Version 1.3 of the open-source system is designed to interact seamlessly with shop systems to leverage cutting tool data and machining knowledge, improving productivity. Novo features a tool selector, tool configurator, tool advisor and job functions. It offers connectivity to Kennametal’s e-commerce system, ISO 13399 exports and integration with the company’s ToolBoss tool-management system via the Machining Cloud. Novo apps are available for both Android and Windows tablet devices.

When used for a specific application, the Novo system helps users select tooling by defining machining features and then reducing the product set to those that can do the job, taking into account constraint requirements such as material, tolerance and machining sequence for both single tools and multi-tools. The software then ranks the results based on knowledge-based rules to best meet the challenges of the application as defined by the user’s operating environment and preferences. It also recommends options on cutting and adaptive items to fit with the selected solution. Smart-attribute filters can help users select available products and provide options on cutting and adaptive items as well. The Tool Configurator provides CAD files and graphic support for every tool component and its assembly, saving time.

Through the e-commerce interface, Novo users can request a price quote from their local Kennametal distributors with a “request quote” button. ToolBoss users in the cloud can use Novo to see if an item proposed for a process plan is already available in their inventory, making plans and budgets more efficiently. Customer part numbers are automatically populated in the Novo Tool Advisor results and Tool Availablity pop-ups through the ToolBoss database.

The software also features a job functionality option, which is a cloud-based repository linked to a user ID where tool lists are stored for future use, editing, copying and sharing. The lists can be downloaded into standard report formats and include commercial tooling and dimensional data and weights, speeds and feeds, and photo or CAD model images.