Quote:
Originally Posted by Clive Loynes
I think that you would have to say it is decidedly manual. 
I draw it in 2D using NanoCAD, the Russian version of AutoCAD which is free for home use.
When complicated profiles are needed I draw the tool paths on NanoCAD and then export them as .dxf files.
I use another freebie called GSimple to create the initial G-Code. I import the .dxf into GSimple to create "engravings" and use the "pocket" and "bulge" functionality of GSimple where I can.
I have to create the engraving paths as 0.1mm deep in GSimple and then copy and paste in Notebook to generate the successive passes at ever increasing depth.
It's sodding hard graft and I'm sure that you can appreciate the scope for sodding it up! LOL But I'm enjoying every minute since retiring last August. |
Bloody hell, that's alot of sodding about. Fanuc then. Even though I don't know how to use it yet, I have been given a full copy of solidworks and I have a valuation version of Delcams Featurecam on my pc, I use featurecam to draw stuff, get measurements etc, so I can slyly program a spare machine at work lol. We have old hat Bridgeport VMCs and they're so slooowww.
I think I would like retirement, nowt to do but ride motorbikes, fly helis and drive cars, and make bits for the aforementioned, lol. Hoping to get a garage built at our new house then later on a little cnc mill. Maybe start a little fred in a shed sideline aswell as normal job.