All in one CAD-CAM-CNC software for Windows

Galaad 3 is a set of native 32-bit Windows software (XP / Vista / 7 / 8 / 10 / 11) intended for the intelligent control of CNC machines from 1 to 5 axes. Galaad's most common applications are 2D½ milling, engraving, cutting, gluing, plasma/laser/water jet control or automatic dispensing of liquids. With an "all-in-one" design, it integrates the complete manufacturing process into a coherent whole, and adds additional modules for special applications. The Galaad software is available in German, English, French and Italian.

From the idea to the object, the processing chain generally includes three stages: the drawing of the part, using 2D, 2D½ or 3D CAD (Computer Aided Design) software which produces a file describing the geometry thus designed, for example in HPGL, DXF or other format; then the definition of the tool paths, supported by CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) software which generates a file of trajectories that the tools will have to follow, most of the time in ISO G-code format; and finally a CNC (Computerized Numerical Control) software for controlling the numerically controlled machining machine (milling machine or lathe), responsible for producing the part by following the tool paths thus produced.

Galaad combines these three steps in a single software. By offering a specialized drawing module that takes into account the fact that the drawn part must be machined, it allows the user to impose production constraints very early on. The link with the machining part is immediate, not requiring the handling of heavy intermediate files. From the drawing module, a simple mouse click is enough to launch the manufacturing process on a machine controlled directly by Galaad.

That said, Galaad remains open software. There is no question of setting a rigid framework for the process by imposing Gilead on all levels. It is therefore entirely possible to substitute external software for a key point in the processing. Thus, the downstream processing part of the drawing can very well use CAD or CAM files from software other than Galaad. Similarly, the drawing module is able to directly call an external driver to dialogue with the machine, without even requiring file manipulations..

It should be noted that, in its current version, Galaad is not a 3D design software in the strict sense, i.e. it does not allow parts to be created by direct manipulation of volumes or surfaces. . A certain number of 3D functions are however present in the CAD module, and in particular the creation of advanced 3D meshes or projections, twists and manipulations in space. The 2D½ drawing functions are directly linked to milling and therefore include all possibilities for controlling paths, in particular depths, drilling and feed rates, automatic tool-related corrections, etc.

The success of Galaad comes from its extraordinary ease of learning, which does not prevent it from offering a number of advanced functions. It has been successfully adopted by both totally new computer users and jaded experts. To simply define the software, the keywords are: intuitiveness, ease, power, adaptability, integration.

The standard Galaad license covers all modules without restriction. Shooting and programming module licenses can be purchased separately at a lower cost, with the possibility of upgrading later. The 3D machining module can also be purchased alone (see "Prices" section).

2D½ milling:
The main and historically oldest module is the Galaad program. This allows the drawing of 2D½ parts which are then machined directly by the control module. All the advanced design assistance functions are present and easily accessible. Entry of dimensions on the keyboard, grips on the fly, manipulations in the plane and in space, dynamic quotations, import/export, calculations and tool corrections, hollowing by hatching or pocket cycles and so on. Galaad can create a toolpath on three axes. The configuration of the work environment and the machining machine is done from this module. Rather than the one integrated in the software, it is possible to use an external post-processor which will be called directly by the machining command. Parameterization includes advanced machining control functions for special applications, and in particular the management of automatic inputs/outputs and time delays.

2D½ machining:
The machining module linked to the drawing is the Lancelot program. Launched directly from the Galaad CAD module, it allows you to configure the machining process (sequence of tools, roughing and finishing, scales, filters, repetitive cycles, repeats, fragmentation, etc.), to set the part origin by through a user-friendly control panel including manual piloting, automatic tool measurement or management of memorized origins, and to supervise automatic machining while keeping user control just a click away. This module can be used alone with its import functions, or directly from another CAD software capable of exporting toolpaths. It can control three XYZ or XAZ axes (cylindrical machining) and even manage the servo-control of an adjustable blade motorized by the 3rd or 4th axis.

3D machining:
The special Kay module is an independent 3D appendix. It is able to take over ISO, Isel-NCP or MasterCam-NCI files for automatic machining from 3 to 5 axes. It integrates the normal functions of manual or automatic workpiece origin setting and the advanced setting of the machine. This module can be called directly by CAD software capable of exporting a 3D toolpath. Its cost is quite low and it can be purchased separately.

Filming:
The Gawain non-indexed turning module uses the CAD functionalities offered by Galaad, but specifically adapted to simple turning on two axes. Lathe setting is independent and can coexist with milling. This turning module is also often used by model makers on a passive lathe mounted on their milling machine, for a combined milling-turning operation on the same machine at a lower cost.

Programming:
The Kynon programming module allows you to create a programmed path on the machine (from 1 to 5 axes) while managing inputs/outputs, timers, counters, control loops or user events. It is possible to define macros with coordinates and hierarchies or directly include external files and drawings. This software is mainly dedicated to users who need to create a multi-axis toolpath with event management. Of course, this module can receive machining or movement traces drawn with Galaad.

C.I. engraving:
Percival is an English engraving module capable of opening Gerber and Excellon files. This software calculates the contours of tracks & pads according to the tools used, as well as the bores of the holes to limit tool changes. It then directly calls the machining module to perform the drilling and etching of the circuit.

ISO release:
A small appendix to the set of modules, Owein is a text editor of ISO/NCP files which allows you to view the corresponding routes in several views and in real time, with highlighting of the current line and immediate reporting of modifications. It can act as an NCI/NCP/ISO format converter.

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