Connected Manufacturing Software Extends Sheet Metal Automation

Lantek is introducing v46, a new version of its manufacturing software that connects more stages of sheet metal production, from quotation and engineering to programming, bending and shop-floor execution. The release will be demonstrated at EuroBLECH 2026, taking place from 20 to 23 October in Hanover, Germany, at Hall 11, Booth 11-C08.

Manufacturing Data Enters the Quotation Process
The updated iQuoting environment can process individual 3D parts and complete assemblies while applying manufacturing feasibility rules before a quotation is completed. Imported geometries can be detected, prepared and evaluated against available technologies and production capabilities.

Configurable calculations and predefined work plans allow manufacturers to incorporate production routes, resources and costing criteria into estimates. Lantek's KAI artificial intelligence technology assists by analysing manufacturing information and design data and automating parts of the decision process.

Integration with other Lantek applications has also been expanded so information from an accepted quotation can move into downstream manufacturing workflows.

Nesting Optimisation Expands to Punching
Lantek Expert v46 introduces additional automation for punching machines and combined punch-cut systems. Its Nesting Optimisation Service, previously available for cutting technologies, has been extended to punching equipment.

The software can optimise the arrangement of components on sheet material while accounting for manufacturing requirements, extending automated material optimisation across a wider range of sheet metal processes.

Automation Extends to Material Handling and Tube Processing
The redesigned Stackmaster integrates palletising programming into Lantek Expert and provides a visual environment for automated material handling. Lantek is also expanding connectivity between cutting machines and automatic storage systems, including associated MES workflows and material inventory.

For tube manufacturing, Lantek Flex3D v46 adds parametric tube-to-tube connection design directly within 3D assemblies. It can also unbend imported bent-tube geometry to create the developed geometry required for cutting preparation.

A new Tekla PowerFab integration connects structural steel MES-MRP processes with Lantek programming tools, complementing the existing StruMIS MRP Connector.

Press Brake Planning Becomes More Flexible
Lantek Bend can calculate and retain alternative bending solutions for the same component across different press brakes. Each option contains machine-specific feasibility, tooling, setup and process information.

Production teams can therefore select a validated press brake closer to execution according to machine availability, workload or tooling conditions rather than permanently assigning the machine during engineering.

Machine Connectivity Expands Across the Workshop
Lantek is extending machine connectivity beyond cutting systems to press brakes and other CNC equipment. A redesigned Control Panel provides clearer visualisation of real-time machine events.

Operational information can feed Lantek MES and Analytics, providing data for production monitoring and indicators such as overall equipment effectiveness (OEE). The multi-vendor approach is intended for factories operating equipment from different machine manufacturers.

Additional Context:
This section details technical specifications and competitive benchmarking not included in the original product announcement

Integrated CAD/CAM and manufacturing platforms such as TRUMPF TruTops Boost and SigmaNEST also combine functions including nesting, NC programming and production preparation.

Lantek v46 differentiates its announced scope by linking quotation feasibility, punching optimisation, material handling, tube preparation, alternative press-brake planning and multi-vendor machine data within a broader manufacturing workflow. However, publicly available information does not provide equivalent benchmark tests for nesting efficiency, programming time or material savings, preventing a quantitative performance comparison between these platforms.

Edited by Sucithra Mani, Induportals editor – adapted by AI.

www.lantek.com