My CNC machine uses "G & M" Codes to direct its' cutting tool in x,y, and z axis.
If I draw a figure in AutoCad, any ideas on how I can convert those files to tool path motions?
The ACAD files have all the point-to-point xyz coordinates, but the CNC machine wants ASCII commands to tell it where to go.
Can you tell I'm new at this?
Thanks!
John
ACAD to G&M Codes
ACAD to G&M Codes
WA2RBA
Re: ACAD to G&M Codes
Found some insight to G&M codes here. Click on the help button once the applet loads. Unfortunately the text is in another applet, so you can't cut and paste, but the codes are there. The G codes deal with manipulation of the cutting head and subroutines while the M codes deal with coolant and ending the program. <p>Your X Y Z coordinates correspond to: X = horizontzal, Y = vertical and Z = depth (in my line of work: Northing, Easting and Elevation - any idea what I do?). You might want to verify that with your CNC manual as X and Y might be switched. Also, check to see where your 0 (zero) Z is in relation to the cutting head. When you draw your picture in ACAD, you have to give your lines elevations, specifically the beginning and ends of them - if they have a slope. If the line is all one plane, then one Z for the whole line is OK. As for ASCII conversion, 2 things pop to my mind.<p>1, export your drawing as a .DXF file. This format is a ASCII text listing of the file used for universal exchange between programs. Look at the file and see if you can insert the G and M codes where you think they ought to be. Try a simple test (ie basic shape and cheap test) and see if that works.<p>2, export your points in a complimentary X Y Z format (note the spaces as indicated in the previously mentioned help file). If you don't have points, then you'll have to draw them and give them a "Z" elevation. Note: when exporting DO NOT select a binary file! That would defeat the purpose of having a ASCII file. Once you have your ASCII file, insert the appropriate G & M codes and try that test.<p>Hopefully one of these options will help you. Without a sample of the actual output to the CNC machine, I can't be more specific or helpful. As far as I know these are the only 2 ACAD ASCII file types available.<p>CeaSaR<p>PS - does the manufacturer of your CNC machine have a free/trial program or sample of the output code available? It would really help to see exactly what the machine needs to read in order to operate.
Hey, what do I know?
Re: ACAD to G&M Codes
Thank you, Caesar! Appreciate your reply!
Found someone with MasterCAD knowledge!
Fascinating what 3D modeling can do!
John
Found someone with MasterCAD knowledge!
Fascinating what 3D modeling can do!
John
WA2RBA
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