The release focuses on three key areas: greater visibility into preparation steps, automated correction of problematic 3D geometry, and improved tools for reinforcing parts and designing lightweight lattice structures.

A More Transparent Build Preparation Process

One of the most notable additions in 4D Additive 1.8 is its Build History Tree. This feature organizes the operations performed during additive manufacturing preparation into a structured, reviewable sequence.

Rather than treating build preparation as a series of disconnected operations, engineers can inspect the workflow and revisit individual steps. Relevant parameters can be reviewed and adjusted when design requirements change.

This approach can be particularly useful in production environments where part revisions, customer feedback, or manufacturing constraints require repeated adjustments. A more traceable workflow helps teams understand how a build configuration was created and makes it easier to revise earlier decisions without unnecessarily repeating the entire preparation process.

For engineering organizations managing multiple part variants, this type of process visibility can also support more consistent working practices.

Automated Repair for Challenging 3D Models

Preparing imported geometry for 3D printing can be time-consuming when source files contain defects. Triangulated models, including mesh-based formats, may have damaged or inconsistent geometry that needs to be corrected before manufacturing.

Version 1.8 enhances the software’s automatic model-repair capabilities with an Advanced Automatic Mode. The feature combines a sequence of repair operations to address multiple geometry issues with less manual intervention.

The software supports workflows involving both precise CAD geometry and triangulated models. Engineers can selectively convert CAD geometry into a triangulated representation and apply mesh-repair tools where appropriate.

This flexibility is important when working with models from different design applications, external suppliers, scanning workflows, or legacy datasets. Reducing the amount of manual cleanup can help shorten preparation cycles and allow engineers to focus more attention on manufacturability and part performance.

Automated repair does not eliminate the need for validation, however. Critical components should still be checked to confirm that the repaired geometry meets the intended design and manufacturing requirements.

Reinforcement Structures for Thin-Walled Components

Thin-walled and large-surface components can be difficult to manufacture using additive processes. Depending on the material and process conditions, thermal effects and internal stresses may cause unwanted deformation.

To address this challenge, 4D Additive 1.8 introduces a stiffener function that supports the creation of reinforcement structures during build preparation. These structures are intended to improve the stability of susceptible geometries and help reduce the risk of warping during manufacturing.

This capability may be particularly relevant to industrial parts where maintaining dimensional accuracy is essential. Potential applications include lightweight housings, panels, and other components with broad surfaces or relatively thin walls.

The practical outcome will depend on the geometry, material, printing technology, and selected process parameters. Engineers should therefore evaluate reinforcement strategies against the requirements of each build.

Lattice Structures for Lightweight Design

Lattice structures are increasingly important in additive manufacturing because they can provide tailored mechanical characteristics while reducing the amount of material used in selected regions.

The latest 4D Additive release expands the options for adapting lattice designs to component geometry and functional requirements. This gives engineers additional flexibility when developing lightweight structures or optimizing the internal architecture of a part.

Depending on the application, lattice-based design can support goals such as mass reduction, material efficiency, and functional integration. However, achieving these benefits requires careful consideration of loading conditions, manufacturing limitations, and inspection requirements.

Combining lattice design with other build-preparation tools can help teams assess how a component’s geometry should be adapted for the intended production process.

Why These Updates Matter for Engineering Teams

The improvements in 4D Additive 1.8 address several practical challenges in additive manufacturing workflows:

• Workflow traceability: A structured build history makes preparation operations easier to inspect and revise.
• Less manual geometry repair: Automated healing tools can reduce the effort required to prepare imperfect mesh data.
• Improved manufacturing stability: Reinforcement structures provide another option for addressing deformation risks in thin-walled parts.
• More design flexibility: Adaptable lattice structures support lightweighting and application-specific geometry.
• Potentially shorter preparation cycles: Combining these capabilities may help reduce repetitive work when models or production requirements change.

The overall value depends on how well the software fits an organization’s existing CAD, engineering, and manufacturing processes. Teams should assess data compatibility, validation procedures, and production requirements before introducing new tools into established workflows.

The Bigger Picture: Preparing Better Data for Additive Manufacturing

As industrial 3D printing moves into increasingly demanding applications, the quality of digital preparation becomes a key part of manufacturing success. Reliable geometry, traceable operations, and suitable structural design all contribute to a more predictable workflow.

CoreTechnologie’s 4D_Additive 1.8 reflects this direction by bringing process-history visibility, automated model repair, reinforcement functions, and lattice design improvements into the same software environment.

For manufacturers working with complex or frequently revised parts, these capabilities offer additional ways to streamline preparation and address geometry-related challenges before production begins.

Learn More: Visit the official CoreTechnologie 4D_Additive website for product information.

Source: This article is an independently written overview based on publicly available product information from CoreTechnologie and industry reporting by Design News. Product capabilities and results may vary depending on the application and manufacturing process.

Strategic Misalignment: Luxury SUVs in a Price-Sensitive Market

TOGG’s decision to enter the market with high-priced electric SUVs has been widely criticized as a strategic miscalculation. Turkey’s economic landscape, marked by high inflation and reduced purchasing power, makes affordability a primary concern for the average consumer. Despite this, TOGG targeted the premium segment with its T10X SUV—an approach that sharply limits its customer base.

While countries like China and the U.S. are offering competitive EVs across a wide price spectrum, TOGG’s narrow focus on luxury electric vehicles has left it ill-equipped to compete, especially as more cost-effective alternatives continue to flood the Turkish market. Analysts argue that without a pivot toward more affordable models, TOGG risks further marginalization.

Intensifying Global Pressure: The Rise of BYD and Tesla

TOGG’s struggles are exacerbated by the increasing dominance of global EV giants in Turkey. Chinese powerhouse BYD has announced a $1 billion investment to establish a factory in Manisa, accompanied by aggressive plans to expand its market share. Its recent shipment of 7,000 vehicles to Turkey and logistical infrastructure suggest a long-term commitment that will further intensify competition.

Tesla, meanwhile, has solidified its position as a market leader. In Q1 2025 alone, Tesla sold 3,310 vehicles in Turkey—outpacing TOGG, which only managed 2,038 units in February. With expanding service centers, brand loyalty, and price advantages thanks to global scale, Tesla is steadily capturing a growing segment of Turkish EV buyers.

Internal Disruption: Layoffs, Lawsuits, and Leadership Instability

TOGG’s internal dynamics present further concerns. In recent months, numerous white-collar employees have been laid off, citing unpaid wages, lack of transparency, and a deteriorating workplace culture. Many of these former staff members have taken legal action, claiming unfair termination and inadequate severance packages.

These HR issues point to deeper structural weaknesses, suggesting that TOGG has not yet developed the robust corporate governance needed for long-term success. Reports of disorganized workflows and inconsistent managerial practices further highlight the lack of institutional maturity within the organization.

Additionally, rumors surrounding the potential resignation of CEO Gürcan Karakaş have created a cloud of uncertainty. While no official announcement has been made, speculation is rife that Karakaş may step down amid mounting pressure and internal discord. Such a departure could significantly destabilize the company’s already fragile leadership structure.

Staggering Financial Losses: 13.75 Billion TL in 2024

Perhaps the most alarming indicator of TOGG’s struggles lies in its financial performance. In 2024, the company reported a loss of 13.75 billion TL, raising red flags among investors and stakeholders. One of TOGG’s key shareholders, Turkcell, acknowledged a direct financial hit of 3.16 billion TL due to its 23% stake in the company.

The company’s net asset value also plummeted, from 36.8 billion TL at the end of 2023 to just 23 billion TL by the end of 2024—a 37.5% decline. If not addressed with a serious turnaround strategy, these losses could threaten TOGG’s ability to continue operations.

Perceptions in the Industry: “TOGG is Gasping for Air”

Competitors and observers in the automotive sector are increasingly vocal in their skepticism. Several industry analysts have commented that TOGG is “gasping for air”, struggling to find its footing in a saturated and rapidly evolving market. The combination of strategic missteps, operational instability, and financial strain is diminishing the company’s credibility—both in Turkey and abroad.

As global players like Tesla and BYD tighten their grip, TOGG is at a crossroads. Without swift corrective action—such as leadership renewal, product diversification, and better cost alignment—the brand may find itself relegated to a cautionary tale rather than a success story of national innovation.

Key Specifications

• Number of Axes: 6
• Payload Capacity: 6 kg
• Reach: 1,368 mm
• Repeatability: ±0.1 mm
• Weight: 290 kg
• Mounting Options: Floor, ceiling, or angled mounting

Unique Features of the FANUC Arc Mate 100i

Integrated Cabling System

One of the standout features of the Arc Mate 100i is its integrated cabling system. Gas/air lines and the wire feed motor cable are housed within the robot arm, eliminating the need for external cabling. This design enhances reliability, reduces setup time, and minimizes maintenance requirements.

Advanced Servo Control

The robot is equipped with FANUC’s TurboMove technology, which ensures smooth and rapid point-to-point movements. This feature not only increases productivity but also maintains accuracy during high-speed operations.

Compact and Flexible Design

The slim arm and compact wrist design make the Arc Mate 100i ideal for operating in confined spaces. Its flexibility allows it to handle complex tasks with ease, even in challenging environments.

Applications of the FANUC Arc Mate 100i

The Arc Mate 100i is engineered for a wide range of industrial applications, including:

• Arc Welding: MIG and TIG welding tasks for precise and consistent results.
• Plasma Cutting and Welding: High-quality cutting and welding solutions for various materials.
• Material Handling: Seamless handling of parts during the production process.

This versatility makes the Arc Mate 100i a valuable asset across industries such as automotive, aerospace, and general manufacturing.

Control Unit Compatibility

The FANUC Arc Mate 100i is compatible with the FANUC R-J2 and R-J3 controllers. These advanced control systems enable easy integration into existing setups, offering users intuitive programming and operational flexibility.

Advantages of the FANUC Arc Mate 100i

1. High Precision: Delivers consistent accuracy, ensuring superior quality in welding and cutting tasks.
2. Enhanced Productivity: Faster cycle times and reduced downtime lead to increased operational efficiency.
3. Durability: Built to withstand demanding industrial conditions, ensuring long-term reliability.
4. Ease of Maintenance: The integrated cabling system and robust design minimize maintenance needs.
5. Customizable: Can be tailored to specific applications with a variety of end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) options.
6. Cost-Effective: Offers a high return on investment by improving production rates and reducing labor costs.

Why Choose the FANUC Arc Mate 100i?

The FANUC Arc Mate 100i combines precision, speed, and reliability, making it an indispensable tool for industries that require efficient and high-quality robotic solutions. Its ability to handle complex tasks in tight spaces and harsh environments ensures maximum productivity and minimal operational disruption.

Whether you are looking to automate welding processes, improve cutting precision, or streamline material handling, the FANUC Arc Mate 100i is a robust and versatile solution tailored to meet your needs.

What Makes a Six-Axis Robot Unique?

Six-axis robots are characterized by their capacity to move along three linear axes (x, y, and z) and execute three rotational movements: roll, pitch, and yaw. This combination of movements mimics the dexterity of a human arm, enabling them to perform intricate tasks with precision. Each axis of the robot represents a unique degree of freedom, allowing it to move to specific programmed points with accuracy.

Detailed Movements of Each Axis

Axis One

Located at the base of the robot, Axis One allows the arm to pivot left and right across a 180-degree range. This fundamental movement enables the robot to transport objects in a straight line, providing the foundation for precise and efficient motion.

Axis Two

Controlling the robot’s lower arm, Axis Two facilitates forward and backward extensions. This axis enables vertical and horizontal movements, allowing the robot to lift, move, and place objects along the x or y planes seamlessly.

Axis Three

Axis Three empowers the robot’s upper arm to move up and down, significantly expanding its vertical reach. This axis enhances accessibility, allowing the robot to interact with parts across all three planes (x, y, and z) effectively.

Axis Four

Axis Four governs the roll motion of the robot’s upper arm. This movement allows the end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) to rotate, providing greater control over the orientation of objects and enabling precision in tasks such as assembly or welding.

Axis Five

Collaborating with Axis Four, Axis Five manages pitch and yaw movements. Pitch involves moving the EOAT up and down, while yaw facilitates left-to-right motion. This dual-axis control ensures the end-effector can adjust to complex angles and positions.

Axis Six

As the robot’s wrist, Axis Six is responsible for complete 360-degree rotations. This axis offers unmatched flexibility by enabling roll, pitch, and yaw movements, allowing the robot to orient parts precisely in all three dimensions.

Advantages of Six-Axis Robots

Six-axis robots provide several key advantages that make them a preferred choice in industrial automation:

1. Enhanced Flexibility: With six degrees of freedom, these robots can handle intricate tasks that require precise positioning and orientation, mimicking human arm movements.
2. Wide Application Range: They can perform a variety of tasks such as welding, painting, assembly, and material handling, making them highly versatile.
3. Space Efficiency: Their compact design allows them to operate in confined spaces, optimizing factory layouts.
4. Increased Productivity: By automating repetitive tasks, six-axis robots significantly boost production speed and efficiency, reducing lead times.
5. Improved Accuracy and Consistency: These robots deliver precise, repeatable movements, ensuring consistent quality in production processes.
6. Cost-Effectiveness: Over time, six-axis robots reduce labor costs and minimize errors, leading to long-term savings.
7. Adaptability to Harsh Environments: Specialized models can operate in extreme conditions, such as high temperatures or cleanroom settings, ensuring reliability across various industries.
8. Future-Proof Technology: Their ability to integrate with advanced software and systems, such as AI and IoT, ensures they remain relevant in evolving industrial landscapes.

Applications and Variants of Six-Axis Robots

The adaptability of six-axis robots makes them suitable for a wide range of applications. They are available in various sizes, from compact models like the FANUC LR Mate 200id to larger options such as the M-2000ia. Payload capacities range from a few kilograms to over a thousand kilograms, catering to diverse industrial needs. Additionally, specialized variants are designed for specific environments, such as cleanrooms or harsh conditions, like the FANUC M-710ic with its high IP rating.

Leading Manufacturers of Six-Axis Robots

Renowned manufacturers like FANUC, Yaskawa Motoman, ABB, and KUKA offer an extensive portfolio of six-axis robots. These companies have continuously innovated to meet the evolving demands of industries worldwide, solidifying six-axis robots as a staple in automation.

The Future of Industrial Automation

As industries strive for greater efficiency and precision, six-axis robots continue to set the benchmark for robotic automation. Their ability to perform complex tasks with speed and accuracy ensures they remain at the forefront of technological advancement in manufacturing and beyond.

Key New Features in SmartCAM v2025

1. Regenerative CTK Containers: Flexible and Adaptive Design

SmartCAM v2025 introduces Regenerative CTK Containers, allowing users to create geometry that can be modified and regenerated on the fly.

• Adaptive Design Process: Containers operate similarly to Regenerative Process containers, enabling users to make adjustments without restarting the process.
• Efficient Recalibration: By recalling previous settings, users can modify parameters and recreate geometry swiftly, reducing design iteration time.
  This feature empowers users to optimize their machining strategies dynamically, improving both flexibility and control over complex design tasks.

2. Special Event Operations and User Labels: Streamlined Toolpath Coding

The new Special Event Operation (Op) feature allows users to insert specific coding events into the toolpath without invoking a tool change.

• Customizable Event Selection: Choose from a variety of predefined events to trigger unique actions within your code generator.
• Enhanced User Label Visibility: Historically limited to code generators, user labels are now viewable and editable directly within SmartCAM, offering greater transparency and control over custom operations.
  This enhancement streamlines CNC programming by eliminating redundant tool changes and improving overall efficiency in custom coding.

3. Surface Transparency Toggle: Simplified Visualization Control

A new Surface Transparency Toggle icon has been added to the View toolbar, enabling quick adjustments to surface transparency settings.

• Seamless Display Management: Instantly switch between transparent and solid surface views without navigating through complex menus.
• Improved Display Modes: Quickly assess internal features and structures during design review or simulation.
  This feature provides users with greater visualization flexibility, enhancing accuracy during the design verification process.

4. Licensing Manager Enhancement: Intelligent License Management

The updated License Manager now includes a warning system that checks for existing Cloud Licensing (CLM) or Network Licensing (NLM) client licenses before generating new requests.

• Time-Saving Validation: Prevents unnecessary license requests by verifying existing licenses.
• Streamlined Licensing Workflow: Reduces administrative overhead, ensuring a smoother licensing process.
  This enhancement ensures that users can focus on programming and design without being bogged down by licensing complexities.

5. Expanded Macro Capabilities: Greater Automation and Customization

SmartCAM v2025 expands on its robust macro functionality with new and updated macros, including the CTK_RECALL_CONTAINER macro.

• Automation Experimentation: Easily tweak automation settings to achieve optimal toolpath results.
• Real-Time Data Access: New macros provide instant access to key data during the machining process.
  These updates enhance automation flexibility, allowing users to customize their machining workflows and maximize productivity.

About SmartCAM & SmartCAMcnc

For over 30 years, the SmartCAM suite has delivered cutting-edge CNC programming and toolpath modeling solutions for everything from prismatic production work to complex molds and prototypes.

• Comprehensive Support: SmartCAMcnc offers affordable subscription plans, software updates, and technical support for users worldwide.
• Broad Compatibility: All SmartCAM applications include standard CAD translators, with optional support for native CAD formats.
  Based in Oregon, SmartCAMcnc is led by founder and president Gregg Olson, a veteran in CNC programming since 1979. The company remains committed to developing innovative CAM solutions that meet the evolving needs of the manufacturing sector.

For more information and future updates, visit SmartCAMcnc.