Lantek, the global leader in sheet metal software solutions, released Lantek v44, an enhanced version of its proven software, designed to revolutionize manufacturing processes with the concept of “Connected. Live. Smart.” This latest update is a comprehensive suite of innovations across Lantek’s CAD/CAM, MES, and ERP software, aimed at maximizing production efficiency, connectivity and decision-making.
With v44, manufacturers gain unprecedented control over their production environments, leveraging new capabilities that integrate machines, streamline workflows, and enhance data-driven insights. This update marks a major leap forward for businesses looking to optimize their operations with cutting-edge software technology.
CAD/CAM 2D: Lantek Expert
Lantek Expert v44 brings a host of enhancements designed to optimize CAD/CAM 2D workflows. At the forefront is the Properties-Based Nesting feature, which allows users to group parts by attributes like delivery date, customer information, or other data, resulting in improved efficiency throughout the production process. This new capability not only organizes parts for better packaging and assembly but also offers flexibility to separate or mix groups, with options to insert remnant lines to facilitate cutting. The new Import Assistant allows filtering layers in DXF/DWG files, as well as deleting unnecessary geometry during files importation significantly reducing manual cleanup and accelerating the preparation phase. Additionally, the Punch Swap in Turret Configuration solves turret limitation challenges by enabling users to apply rectangular and square punches on operations made with tools of different sizes, even when they are loaded at other angles, ensuring smoother operations without the need for time-consuming workarounds.
CAD/CAM 3D: Lantek Flex3D
Lantek Flex3D v44 introduces significant enhancements that increase performance, usability, and productivity in tube and profile cutting. Reengineering has been done for both the part import process and job management/saving, which drastically improves performance, offering more agility in the system. For steelwork manufacturing, the introduction of new Split Parts Techniques allows users to choose from Straight, Angle, or Shape Z splits, incorporating welding preparations and gaps to maintain precise dimensions after welding. Additionally, support for robotic cutting heads extends the compatibility of Flex3D for machines with more than five axes, including robotic devices, delivering optimized cutting paths for complex steelwork projects.
Lantek MES
Lantek MES v44 brings transformative upgrades to enhance shop floor efficiency and flexibility. The introduction of Lantek MES Intralogistics optimizes the flow of raw materials from the warehouse to work centers, reducing downtime and ensuring that materials are promptly available for manufacturing machines. This improvement enhances material traceability and minimizes errors, leading to more efficient operations. The new 3D Operations Finishing feature allows operators to register completed parts directly into the system without complex graphical nesting, simplifying remnant management, especially for manual processes. Additionally, the Advanced Management of Lost Parts provides operators with the ability to quickly rework or recover lost or damaged parts without restarting entire workflows, significantly reducing delays and boosting overall productivity.
Lantek Integra
Lantek Integra v44 introduces enhancements aimed at improving usability, cost management accuracy, and workflow efficiency. The new Files Drag & Drop feature streamlines file management, enabling users to quickly add geometry files or documents directly into Quotes, Sale Orders, or Tracking Numbers, with the system automatically identifying file types and taking the appropriate action significantly improving the speed and ease of commercial processes. Additionally, Material Scrap Price Definition offers more precise control over material cost calculations by allowing users to set specific scrap prices for different materials. This added flexibility ensures accurate, competitive quoting and cost estimation, with the system automatically factoring in scrap costs for each nesting while maintaining full traceability.
Lantek Bend
Lantek Bend v44 introduces powerful features aimed at enhancing automation, integration, and efficiency in the bending process. The Enhanced CAD Import Module now supports a wide range of native CAD file formats and uses the Hoops library to automatically recognize materials, thicknesses, and bending lines, significantly reducing manual input and accelerating the import process. The new Starmatik Export Functionality expands Lantek Bend’s capabilities for robotic programming by exporting bend line data into a DXF format for use with Lantek Expert, for precise and automated programming based on specific material properties. Furthermore, deeper Integration with Lantek Expert, MES, and Integra transforms Lantek Bend into a fully interconnected solution, allowing users to open, modify, and sync 3D files seamlessly across all systems. This integration simplifies data management, provides real-time updates, and improves efficiency across quoting and production, reducing complexity for users of all skill levels while enhancing operational agility.
A major step toward the Smart Factory
Lantek v44 is not just another software update; it redefines how modern manufacturing should operate. The new "Connected. Live. Smart." concept, combined with Lantek Analytics, offers manufacturers real-time insights and smarter decision-making by connecting machines, operators, and data sources. This powerful tool enhances production efficiency, allowing users to optimize scheduling, monitor performance, and gain complete visibility over their lines.
"Our goal with v44 is to empower factories to become more connected, more efficient, and more intelligent," says Raúl Chopitea, Head of Product at Lantek.