Case Study: Microsoft achieves precision locomotive part machining with RhinoCAM from MecSoft Corporation

Microsoft - Customer Case Study

The customer, Rex Smith, a retired Corporate Vice President of MSN Operations and former COO of Hotmail, transitioned into a retirement hobby of precision machining and building a complex ⅛ scale replica of a Heisler Steam Locomotive. His challenge was to find an intuitive yet powerful CAD/CAM solution for his build-to-print milling business and personal project, despite having no prior CAD or CAM experience. He chose to implement RhinoCAM from MecSoft Corporation to meet this need.

The solution from vendor MecSoft was the RhinoCAM Professional configuration, which provided the advanced 3-axis machining strategies required for complex parts like the steam locomotive's coupler pocket and tender step. Using a sequence of operations including 3-axis horizontal roughing, finishing, profiling, and drilling, Rex was able to successfully machine intricate components. The measurable result was the successful creation of a fully functional, highly detailed scale locomotive, demonstrating the software's capability. Rex Smith praised the product's performance and the vendor's exceptional technical support, stating he was "totally happy with RhinoCAM."

Microsoft

Rex Smith

Corporate Vice President