Machsupport Forum
Support => Downloads => Others => Topic started by: Machtank on June 21, 2014, 08:48:43 PM
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This is Ezilathe, a program I have written to assist in the production of CNC code for the Lathe under Mach3.
It is a collection of useful routines including processing of DXF data into Gcode, that I have developed for my own use.
I am sure that you will find it useful as well.
The Cad tool is still under development, so is not yet fully functional, but all other tools have been in use for quite some time in my workshop.
Some of the functions can be useful for milling machine code.
Once downloaded, extract to C:\Ezilathe directory, and copy all the files from your chosen sample directory (Imperial or Metric) to C:\Ezilathe.
NOTE FOR LATEST VERSION OF: PROGRAM - REPLY #43 OF THIS THREAD DOCUMENTATION - REPLY #47
OR
Can be found on CNC ZONE - DOWNLOADS - POST FILES
VIDEO LINKS:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HJXn46asA8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TRrqeszWXVk
MODIFIED BY RICH on 2/11/2015 2/13/15 8/30/16 6/3/17
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I confirm no security risk with the download, My computer is clean, confirmed by McAfee security center
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I thought I would add the most recent version of the User guide in PDF format (virus free - Rich). Might be helpful.
Since the program was posted, I have found a couple of minor bugs, but it continues to work well for me.
Please let me know if you are having any problems with it, especially installation issues.
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Just had a quick look at the PDF. It will surely help in using your program.
Looks interesting and will try it out when I get a chance and give some feedback.
Manny times I will backplot the Gcode and overlay it onto the CAD drawing for checking.
Seems you have incorporated that into your program which which can be very useful.
It's nice for folks to have some options for generating lathe code.
Thanks for posting and keep up the good work,
RICH
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This is the latest version of Ezilathe.
This update includes many bug-fixes, and improvements including a new cut by cut simulator mode, and additional features to help with the production of G code for the cnc lathe under Mach3.
After the download is complete, extract the files (Both the exe and the chm files and the two sample directories) to C:Ezilathe.
If an existing installation, your original datafiles should remain usable.
For a new installation, as a minimum the file Materialm.txt from either sample directory is also required.
The other files in the sample directory are user data (a good starting point), just select from imperial or metric.
These files have been scanned with McAfee, and are Virus free. The updated PDF to follow.
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This is the .PDF to go with the program update
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Excellent documentation Machtank - Thanks for sharing your Ezilathe.
Tweakie.
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+1 on the documentation. While I have only just installed, and read the manual partially, it looks like it is going to be a great asset when I finally get the lathe going.
Thanks for putting it up for others to share.
Mike
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Hopefully some folks will try the program out so that you can get constructive feedback.
My quick review ...........
Similar to other lathe programs, in that, you have a dxf that represents your profile, can select portions or all of the profile and generate code based on your definiton of your tools. Of course the interface is different and is rather intuitive. I think the program fills in that void between using a wizard and more complex lathe programs.
I would suggest folks try it out as it much better than a lot of the free ones out there that leave much to be desired.
Good work MachTank on the program. :)
If you need some lathe dxf files to test out the program, see Appendix D of the LazyTurn manual to find them.
I used Sect 5 HCIR.dxf since that requires one to use different tools, is drawn accurately, etc.
Here is a link:
http://www.machsupport.com/forum/index.php/topic,10091.0.html
Generated some code and found some minor problems with the pathing....may just be me ...thus I need to play around
more to confirm.
How i test a program like this is to generate code, see what the program is telling me ( in this case the similator ), run the code in Mach Lathe, but also backplot the code and compare to the original drawing.
RICH
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Rich
Using a DXF like this one, where for each tool used, a large gap exists in the profile to be processed, some additional lines in the DXF may be required. Most DXF's do not require any additions. An advantage of having to select what is cut, is additional vectors are ignored.
2 approaches spring to mind for this job.
First approach - plunge cutting with a square ended parting tool - move the left hand faces a distance equal to the tool width (and trim excess line lengths). This can then be machined in 1 hit. I have used this method for finned cylinders. (Always leave original profile intact on another layer to check work).
Second approach (as used here) is to add 2 lines into the central slot (and break the intersecting line at the 1 inch dia). A left and right sharp knife tool may then be used to cut the profile in 2 steps.
As can be seen in the jpg, the job can be cut without gouging (also machined additional length beyond the profile to allow for parting off if reqd).
The profile was mirrored around X zero to make picking it out easier from the toolpaths.
I did find a couple of issues that need adjustment when processing imperial work, when playing with this, like the grid size of 1 inch in the dxf processor - will fix.
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I saw a YouTube video on Ezilathe, looks good, finally found a download that I will try. Let you know how I go.
Is there anyway of putting the latest version up top of thread where it belongs?
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Video looked good before I uploaded it, and they call that HD. Great Interest in how you go, especially if you find any bugs to fix (their are many).
Rich prompted a bit of a rewrite above + I keep finding odd bugs as well. A newer version is being tested, upload soon I hope.
Not sure if I can edit the 1st post in thread, will have to try.
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Machtank,
Just post the update and I'll put into the 1st reply of this thread.You can't edit it.
RICH
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Thank you Rich. Probably better if you just put a note in the First post as below in a good bold font, as people still downloading the original.
(easier for you, and keeps it all together)
"Updated Downloads available towards end of Thread"
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I've been using ezilathe on a number of gcode programs now, and it has worked very well on all of them. Mostly I have been using the dxf to gcode processor and the simulator. I have produced programs that work better in a fraction of the time. Once a tool table was produced, the simulator made fine tuning and adjustments to gcode very simple.
The threading setup is good, easily producing g76 code that hardly required any adjustments.
The editor and it's functions were also useful on milling programs as well, allowing sizes to be adjusted without hassle.
If you are looking for bugs - The tool editor looses changes if you move off a record without saving.
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This is the latest version of Ezilathe Version 1.3.
This update includes many bug-fixes, and improvements, including G32 code production and a Printed worksheet to assist in setting up the CNC lathe.
After the download is complete, extract the files (Both the exe and the chm files and the two sample directories) to C:Ezilathe.
If an existing installation, your original datafiles should remain usable.
For a new installation, as a minimum the file Materialm.txt from either sample directory is also required.
The other files in the sample directory are user data (a good starting point), just select from imperial or metric.
These files have been scanned with McAfee, and are Virus free. The updated PDF to follow.
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This is the updated manual to go with Ezilathe 1.3
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I have created a folder C:Esilathe and extracted the files to it. I have also copied the contents of the Sample Metric folder to this folder including materialm.txt.
However when I try to run Esilathe.exe, I get a message saying 'C:\Esilathe\Materialm.txt does not exist. Please copy to C:\Esilathe'
What am i doing wrong? Windows won't let me use \ as part of a folder name.
Thanks
Richard
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Richard, Thank you for your response.
The problem could be my shorthand - C:\Ezilathe (note Z not S in the name). You need to create a new directory Ezilathe directly off the root directory of your C: drive. The backslash is only the separator between directory levels (C: and below this Ezilathe)
To do this :-
Open Windows Explorer, and make certain that the navigation pane is visible (Go to View menu-Navigation Pane, and "Tick" the box)
In the navigation panel, select/highlight your C: root drive (usually shows as a name followed by (C:)
Right click on it, and a pop-up menu will open.
Select New from the pop-up and select Folder (Usually the only option here)
This should now create a folder down the "tree view" called New Folder.
While this is still highlighted, rename it to Ezilathe.
After all that copy the contents of the metric sample directory and the Ezilathe.exe, and ezilathe.chm (Help file) to the Ezilathe directory and all should be good.
Spend a little time setting up the program's setup data and you should find it useful.
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Thank you! Looking forward to giving it a try.
Richard
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Now running fine, it was the file name spelling mistake that was the problem.
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Hi
Great program, a pleasure to use.
Not sure if it is me or a bug, but if you import a DXF of a say a clock pivot (imperial units 0.08" diameter, 0.125" length) then you get a "need to be positive error" when trying to select on the drawing. Also when you use speed/feed calculator for such a small diameter the results are curious with a spindle speed of 3rpm.!
Thanks again
David
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Locomobile - Thank you for the feedback.
Bugs - It's me, needed something small but positive, so I picked 0.1 (thinking mm not inches) as being the breakpoint. Fixed for next upload as 0.0001 min dia.
Speed 3 RPM at 0.08" diameter, Seems ok here (refer attached Jpeg). A value in the override box (above speed box) could effect the value, or Max spindle speed for the selected lathe. Also the Materialm.txt file could be corrupt (Try reload from the metric samples directory, as is the same file as imperial sample).
If none of the above, a screenshot may help me if possible. Looking at the feeds displayed, I appear to need to check these as well (Look a bit low? I should check out Imperial mode operation a bit more).
Also, while I am here, do I need to support people with Auto tool changers, by putting in the odd M6 somewhere, or is it enough just for the user to change the tool selection field from (for example) "T0505,(Facing Tool)" to "T0505,M6 (Facing tool)" .
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Hi Machtank
Thanks for swift response
Re Bugs... thanks look forward to that ...is there a time scale?
Since posting I realised 1.3 was out, loaded that, the speed and feed calculations are now OK.
Regarding auto tool change I am a complete amateur having made 1/3 scale steam locos to clocks via restoring a full size steam car.
Since breaking my neck in 1999 larger sizes have been a problem, but as age creeps up so are smaller ones!
I am learning to use CNC to do the things I now have difficulty with like filing complex shapes and turning small diameters so no auto tool changes for me!
David
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Version 1.3 - Keeps getting better, all working well to date.
As for tool changes, I think that putting an M6 just after the T command is all that's required. The tool change options (under general config) and the contents of the M6 macros is all that's required to cover auto tool changers.
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Locomobile - Not sure when the next update will be available, Plenty to do. However if you wish I could send it to you direct (This + a few other bugs fixed) if you send a Personal message with your email attached.
The feeds in imperial were being covered by my 16 inches/min max feed under the lathe specs, that was also being read as millimetres. This is fixed in the next update (also warns that speed / feed is at Maximum for Lathe).
Toolchanges, yes already decided, hopefully will suit all. Program will optionally adds M6 between tool command and the comment - e.g. T05 M06 (Right hand face tool).
Other work is being done to improve some areas of the program (I never liked the Zoom in/out commands, I prefer Zoom Window/Extents etc. much easier).
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Hi Machtank
Have sent you a PM
David
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Hi locomobile
Just sent you the update. I hope you like it.
P.S. the car looks good.
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This is the latest version (at 26th June 2015) of Ezilathe, Version 1.4
This update includes many bug-fixes, and improvements, including Recent files dialog and Zoom window in simulator.
Many Bug fixes especially in the Imperial mode.
After the download is complete, extract the files (Both the exe and the chm files and the two sample directories) to C:Ezilathe.
If an existing installation, your original datafiles should remain usable.
For a new installation, as a minimum the file Materialm.txt from either sample directory is also required.
The other files in the sample directory are user data (a good starting point), just select from imperial or metric.
These files have been scanned with McAfee, and are Virus free. The updated PDF to follow.
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This is the updated manual to go with Ezilathe version 1.4
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Machtank,
I modified the 1st post of the thread to send users to reply #28 &29.
Do you want me to delete the other program and pf's from the replies?
BTW,
Been busy but will get to play with the program in the future.
Keep up the good work as your efforts are surely appreciated.
RICH
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Thanks Rich - I think the note will do the job.
The older files are finished with, happy for them to go, but hardly worth the effort, unless you need the space.
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Nice work. I watched the videos on youtube and I'm very impressed with the amount of effort you put in this.
Will it work with round inserts? I user a 6mm round for contour cutting.
Also what version of Mach3 are you running?
Thanks
Derek
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If you mean this or similar then - Yes.
Tool entered as turn, lead angle 0, Inc angle 0, Radius 3mm, Z offset 0, X offset 0, Max cut Whatever, Cut side right (or left).
Dxf profile as required offset in cad 3mm out. (both profile are visible, but finished profile is masked a bit by the blank).
The outer profile is selected.
The result is shown in EZ1.jpg, cut perfectly to the required profile, except in corner (EZ2.jpg), that shows the 3mm radius on profile.
With the controlled point set to the Radius centre, this is what you will get, exactly as shown in simulator.
All done in seconds after opening the dxf - EZ3.jpg (and a quick manual facing cut added at start).
I hope this is what you want. (Works for me!)
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Sorry. forgot to mention My Mach3 is R3.043.066
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This is the new version of Ezilathe (V1.5). There are many bug fixes and improvements in many areas. The Dxf processor has been improved, and now allows for up to 400 entities to be imported via dxf file. This program is checked out on Windows 10.
The pdf manual will be posted shortly.
Install instructions not changed from previous posts.
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This is the PDF manual to go with Ezilathe V1.5
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Excellent work, really excellent work (I dread to think of the time and effort that you have put into this).
Tweakie.
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Will continue updating first reply for latest version of program and manual.
Appreciate all the work you have put into the program and the sharing of it.
Would recommend that lathe users in here try it out and give feedback.
Keep up the good work,
RICH
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I have just downloaded EziLathe after watching your Video, it looks great by the way.
I am having a problem, when I load it I get the following error message. "Materialm.txt-Error on Line Aluminium,152,198,259,305,0.9" and hence I don't get the Material data in the Feeds/Speeds dialogue box.
Any ideas on what I'm doing wrong?
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TurbineTed - Not sure what is wrong here, possibly a read error for the next line as the line shown looks correct. Possibly the file has been corrupted with a few non printing Characters creeping in. You downloaded 2 copies of the file, 1 in the metric sample directory, and 1 in the imperial. Both copies are the same, try the other copy to see if it fixes your problem. There is a full explanation of the file contents under "Material Properties" in the PDF and the help file. You can open it with any text file editor (Notepad etc) to correct any errors.
I tend to upload minor updates to cnczone (Easier for me), there have been 2 that corrected a number of issues.
I am in the final stages of a major update (V1.6 due this month), that adds a number of new functions.
Well worth a look.
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Hi. I've managed to fix it by downloading V1.5.2 from cnczone, all seems to work now so a bit of learning with a cup of tea and a biscuit or two is now required.
Many Thanks
Ted
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TurbineTed - That's good, Don't forget to check out the PDF. Wait for new version PDF as quite a few changes, the Help file is the same as the PDF, to get you started, but not so printable.
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This is the new version of Ezilathe (V1.6). many additions and improvements including trepan and grooving modes, both of which include tool width and basic (only full radius tools at this stage) radius compensation. PDF will follow shortly.
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And this is the PDF. better than help file for reading
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Thanks for the update, have downloaded it and looking forward to giving it a go.
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Anything happening out there, like updates to ezilathe, or similar programs.
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Yes, The new version is nearly ready, just doing some final polishing up. Many new features including some Mach4 support (Started out with G76 threading). Hope you like it. Docs and Help files already to go, so attached the latest PDF file.
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Excellent work Machtank - Ezilathe just keeps getting better and better.
(I have now made this a 'sticky' topic so it always stays at the top of the section).
Tweakie.
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Hello Machtank,
super software. I have download the Ezilathe17.pdf. Where I can find the software?
Many thanks for your answer
Hans
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Hans - Just now finished it, so Attached Here.
This is Ezilathe Version 1.7.1
Download, Unzip to C:\Ezilathe or a temporary directory (if updating), and copy the files required to the C:\Ezilathe.
This version has many changes / corrections that should help in the generation of G-code for your lathe.
Please follow the PDF (Separate download) to assist.
Mach4 - Now supported at least in Basic form.
Generates G-code from DXF's and Simulates. - Tried on Mach4 No Issues.
G32 & G76 Threading - Working, but some issues on my Lathe with Mach4 (Early days however, issues could be me).
G32 will not simulate, But runs on lathe - Pullout not as expected ???
I note the example in Mach4 Lathe programming guide simply pulls out with G00. Hardly a Thread run-out.
G76 Simulates / Runs, but Cuts with half the expected passes. (Try Double in Ezilathe)
All threading - Spindle is not stable, seems to cut-out at start of thread.
That said, Double checked all my code, seems to be correct, but a few questions.
Note that all example date supplied is mainly Mach3, However the 2nd Configured lathe is set as per my testing of mach4, and has good G codes for mach4.
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Perfect timing, I just finished wiring my lathe last week.
Hopefully I can find some time to give it a good thrashing :)
Mike
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Hello Machtank,
many thanks for the Version 1.7. Its possible to create own tools?
Hans
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Yes. Tools may be edited and created in the tool editor window.
Second Button from the Left when you are on the "G Code Simulator" page brings up the Tool editor.
When a tool is not disabled (Checkbox at bottom of screen) you can see the effect of your changes you make in the input boxes above, as soon as you move off an input. Changes made will become available in the main program when you move the editor to another tool.
Changes made can be made permanent by pressing the "Save/Exit" button.
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Hi Machtank,
I finally had a chance to try out your program and put it thru its paces.
Thanks for sharing this with of us.
I have several observations and a problem.
See the attached file for an error that always pops up.
See the second attachment that shows the rounded end of my part gets cut at a shallow angle, removing the rounded end. It appears to be the finish cut that causes the problem.
Any help would be appreciated.
Please let me know if you would like more input as I work with the program more.
Mike
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Mike. Thanks for the input, it always helps to iron out these things.
1 - Error message, It's the % sign at the end doing it, was a last minute change before posting Program. First time I used it, it happened to me. This issue is fixed in the latest version.
2 - I notice a bit of gouging 1/2 way along.. Good to see it highlighting a tooling issue (as it should) with the 35 deg Diamond RH face/turn tool.
3 - The big one. May I suggest that you shift your DXF so that it Starts at Z0 and Ends at Z-2.775 or so. Setting Zero at the R.H. end of the Workpiece eliminates a lot of these strange issues in processing even if you later shift the G-code by Z - 2.775 (In the editor). Let me know if this helps, If not, if possible could you send me your DXF to Analyse.
Also you might try the Follow Polyline Function instead of Cut Right to Left, as the processing is completely different.
The Latest Patched up version is nearly ready, so any changes required could be incorporated in it.
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I will try out your suggestions and get back to you.
Mike
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Hi Machtank,
Moving the part to the other side of the Y origin solved most of the problems, especially the move after the arc.
I will do some more work and update you.
A couple of nice to haves would be;
1. Having the mouse wheel operate the scroll feature instead of having to use the icons at the top.
2. When scrolling thru the g-code in the simulator, along with the circle that indicates where the end of each move, highlighting the actual move would be awesome, especially when trying to find a problem.
3.Generic "pictogram"/drawing of the shape of each tool. It would help when picking out tools for the job. Even if the user has to provide a dxf of the tool when they create them.
4. A donation link to say THANK YOU in a more meaningful way!!!!!!!
Thanks,
Mike
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Mike
Glad that fixed your issues, Hopefully All of them.
Your suggestions
1) The "Move Forward/Back 1 Line" Buttons in the Simulator Mode could be linked to the scroll wheel, Will put on the list, possibly for this update. That should work better.
2) In the simulator, Display mode. Picking on the end point of a move on screen or picking a line of code in the list box will put the circle on screen, and Highlight the Applicable line of code (Also highlighted in the editor). This also update the status line at the bottom of the screen. The Arrow keys may be used in the Listbox to move up/down the code. This should be all operating already on your computer, but has been developed under Windows 10.
3) Already Available under the Tool Editor Window (Open with 2nd Button from left in simulator). Allows Editing and Viewing your Tool list. In the sample Tool List supplied Some tool descriptions do not match tool entry. This is because My Lathe Back to front, i.e. I use LH Face tool to do the Job of RH Face Tool. Tool Entry data suits a conventional lathe. An Icon based on this data next to the Tool selection Pull down could be added, But not a small Job.
4) Suggestions & feedback are the best way.
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Hi Machtank,
1. I was talking about the zoom buttons, when selecting the segments it is tough to see the smaller one and it would be nice to zoom with the mouse wheel, select a line segment, then zoom back out with the mouse wheel.
2. Correct, but I would like to see the line that represents the G-code move highlighted instead of just the black circle. Example. When the move is an arc, the circle is at the end of the move, then you go to the next line of code and it is at the end of the next line. Did it get there in a straight line or by following the arc?
3. Found it, nice. How about a graphic then on the DXF processing page above where it says DXF setup that is linked to the tool selection drop down showing what you selected? I guess once a person gets a handle on what is what, they will know lathe tools like the back of their hand. Until then it is confusing.
4. Have a beer on me and I will keep sending the suggestions and feed back.
Thank,
Mike
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Suggestion #5.
When I select a clearance of .050" for example on 1" diameter stock, it goes back to the stock diameter plus the clearance x2. I would like to see it keep that clearance on each subsequent pass in relation to the last pass.
I like to run in diameter mode.
More to come as I use it.
Mike
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Mike.
1) Ah, the zoom buttons. Tried various ways over the years, Current setup is probably best option due to Time (Zooming is slow) and memory (needs to work on 32 bit XP with low ram). Possibility of some other ways of displaying graphics exist (including the tool going around in simulate mode) that may make this practical in the future.
2) Yes, can do this. Highlighting the current move in a contrasting colour, and still marking the current position with a circle.
3) Yes, Whenever the Tool pulldown is active, a small window will be open next to it (Covering part of the graphic) showing the full tool description and a graphic like in the Tool editor. I can also align the tool editor with the Pulldown.
4) Yes, but at this point in time, will have to be one out of the fridge.
I will see how I go with the Current Update (Bugs etc Mach4 etc). These May or may not be included, but certainly in the one after.
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Mike.
It would be unsafe to Base the clearance diameter on the last cut, as anything could be in the way on the return leading to crashes.
Under some circumstances, to speed things up, a rapid retract to clearance diameter can be used. Next to Dxf setup tab is the Misc setup tab, with a checkbox for "Rapid X Retract". Speeds it up no end, but you cannot use with some tools that may get tangled up with the face.
Both the other suggestions in the next update, due in a couple of weeks (Hopefully, just getting some bugs out).
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I just thought that since the G-code simulation shows where the tools interferes with the final shape you could pick up those values and use them for setting the safe rapid clearance.
Looking forward to the update. Having a great time running the lathe now that it finally works.
Mike
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This is Ezilathe Version 1.7.2
Download, Unzip to C:\Ezilathe or a temporary directory (if updating), and copy the files required to the C:\Ezilathe.
This version has many changes / corrections that should help in the generation of G-code for your lathe.
Please follow the PDF (Separate download) to assist.
Mach4 code can also be produced, and is now mostly tested.
Screwcutting under mach4 - G76 Working, but does not produce the number of cuts expected, so dry run first, it does not seem to be me at fault, unless I am missing something. G32 Not yet producing alternate flank cutting.
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Will load it up and try it out over the weekend.
Thanks for the update!!!!!
Mike.
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This is Ezilathe Version 1.7.3
Download, Unzip to C:\Ezilathe or a temporary directory (if updating), and copy the files required to the C:\Ezilathe.
Mainly Bug fixes, but some new work included.
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Having trouble loading .dxf files nothing shows up. in the image section am i missing something?
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Steve. Sounds like you have unzipped to C:\Ezilathe ok.
Next step is to pick one of the sample directories (Metric or Imperial), and copy the contents directly into the C:\Ezilathe as well.
This gives you a heads up for configuring to suit your needs.
Both Sample directories include "Materialsm.txt", the file you must have to operate.
It is done this way to avoid overwriting your customizations on the next update.
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Having trouble loading .dxf files nothing shows up. in the image section am i missing something?
apparently i had too new of a dxf file i used 2015 when i switched to r12 all was good.
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Steve. Ezilathe is checked out with up to R2018 Ascii dxf's. It could be that unsupported entities were present (but not available in R14).
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Any new updates I should be using, as it has been a while.
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Hello Veloman11
Sorry, it's been a while, There are some changes / Additions, some are still a work in Progress, but should soon become available.
FYI - Additions to DXF Export from Gcode, to work for lathe and Mill Gcode as required.
Additions to Threading to allow for other G76 Implementations, such as LinuxCNC.
+ a Bit of work to "CAD4LATHE" and the usual Bug fixes.
I seem to have run out of Bugs at the moment, the best time to Find them is the day after I upload an update.