Machsupport Forum

Mach Discussion => General Mach Discussion => Topic started by: DennisF on July 21, 2012, 12:20:32 PM

Title: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on July 21, 2012, 12:20:32 PM
Hi guys
Well with lazy cam lathe dead i have tried several other programs all with a lot of problems in other words they don't work worth a dam ya i get the usual promise to fix the problems same old line is anyone using an affordable working lathe program that works with Mach please no Bob cad.
thanks for any and all advise.

Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on July 21, 2012, 01:23:39 PM
I use Dolphin and it works well for me. Has a few quirks that you get used to for example entering a thread pitch you have to type it backwards. Other than these stupid things I dont have a problem with it. I have modified the standard post processor to suit my lathe but it was relatively easy to do. Overall I am delighted with it and as I got it when they had a special offer on I am glad I took the plunge at the time.
There is a new version out V11 and I think it addresses the niggles but for me I dont think I will bother upgrading as there didnt seem to be much difference apart from that.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: RICH on July 22, 2012, 05:53:23 AM
Dennis,
I would echo what Hood said and Dolphin Lathe is on my list to purchase. Just not much out there for turning that's affordable.
One can get by with LazyTurn for an external profile and the wizards, but, a single supported software package for the lathe
which is supported is nice. I don't recommend using the turn module in LazyCam since the turning tools were never completed and the code generated
seems to always need review or modifcation.

RICH
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on July 24, 2012, 12:28:04 PM
Hi Rich and Hood
Thanks for the reply i have always wanted a turn program and i have tried many with out success i looked at Dolphin but at that time the program didn't look to promising i will look at it again, yes i have worked with LC and LT for turn and this is why i am still looking.

Dennis
P/S what ever happened to Chip ? 
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on July 24, 2012, 12:34:49 PM
So whats the difference other then price for the turn program hobby / pro version from Dolphin.

Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on July 24, 2012, 01:36:20 PM
No difference apart from price.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on July 24, 2012, 02:46:34 PM
Thanks Hood
And it works right how about the learning curve user friendly how about support ?

Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on July 24, 2012, 03:02:43 PM
Learning curve was fairly easy for me anyway, few funny things I needed to do when I had both front and rear toolposts with internal tools but once I worked out what was needed it worked fine.
I altered the standard post processor to suit myself and that was relatively straightforward to do once I go my head round it.
As for support, I got a bit of email help with the post processor when I first got it but not needed any since.
My biggest gripe was I couldn't import iges but I believe the latest version can, I have now got into the way of doing DXF's now so dont really need the iges import. The CAD side of it is a bit clunky and I dont use it apart from importing the DXF I have made in other CAD and choosing the shape then sending it onto the CAM. But I would imagine if you used it it would become second nature.



Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: RICH on July 24, 2012, 05:33:11 PM
 Dennis,
You may need a dongle depending on what you intend to do and that adds to the base price of the software.
RICH
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on July 24, 2012, 05:37:35 PM
Rich I know the licence method has changed with 11 but not sure how but I am sure I read you dont need an internet connection now.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on July 24, 2012, 06:11:26 PM
Hood / Rich
how about inside turning dose it work OK i am so gun shy here i have spent way to much hard earned money on CNC software only to get screwed in the end no pun intended these companies make all these promises and then poop out i just want to make sure the program dose what i want it to.

Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on July 24, 2012, 06:21:03 PM
Yes it works fine for me anyway. Did have to set the tools as rear when front or something like that but think that was when I had the two turrets, cant remember if I still need that or not, could look when I get back to the workshop but that will likely be Thursday as I am working away tomorrow.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: BR549 on July 24, 2012, 06:34:29 PM
I believe they do have a demo to test with(;-)

(;-) TP
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on July 24, 2012, 07:17:17 PM
Would the demo cut parts that would be great a test drive before you buy :).

Dennis  
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on July 25, 2012, 01:38:23 AM
Ver 10 demo didnt produce code whether Ver11 demo will or not I dont know.

Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on July 25, 2012, 06:29:16 AM
Ok got back to the workshop earlier than expected and just looked. I still have to tell Dolphin my boring bars are on the front toolpost and approaching from the rear. If I dont it sets the arcs wrong. This could be due to my post processor as it was originally set for dual turrets or maybe even  its Mach as the front/rear tool settings in Mach are a bit screwed up. Either way it doesnt really matter as long as you know what to do and as the tools are set up in the Dolphin Tool table you never have to change again unless of course you are defining a new tool.
If it is a Dolphin issue then it may be fixed in Ver 11, if its my post processor then it wont be an issue anyway.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: RICH on July 25, 2012, 06:39:24 AM
Dennis,
I only use AutoCad or Microsatation and basicaly ignore any other CAD program so won't judge Dolphins's cad. I will say that it imports
a dxf fine if it is drawn correctly, which is different than LC and LT relative to quadrant and what is shown.

Learning curve is rather easy or was for me. Like any software you need to  read info on it, watch the video, and play some.
Dolphin provides options, like picking a starting and end point , multiple path generation based on using different cutting tools. arranging the order of the operations, and thus you have more control over how you want to machine the part. So you create a job and import the dxf based on some parameters, setup the machine, create and select a tool, select type of operation ...where the operation would be very similar to what you would
do on a manual lathe, emulate the a single or all the machining operations,and if acceptable post the code.

One needs to spend some time on how to pick a start and end point and understand the affect of selecting an options.
The more control over what you want to do requires more definition to Dolphin. ie; You can define the rapid moves to and from a point.
There is a geometry flyout whch provides info about the profile like start end point center etc, for each part of the profile.

It took me a while to figure out how to do some  internal machining thus understanding of the last paragraph becomes important.

I will remark that there are two post processors for Mach, one for radius and one for diameter, and and Mach should be configured for
the Dolphin post processor.

Would suggest you download the trial, watch the video and do some homework before tryning to use it for more complex work.

RICH

BTW......  One of these days the Gremilins will quit taking my play money and will purchase it .....darn they know all the hiding places :D
 
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on July 25, 2012, 01:34:08 PM
Rich / Hood
Thanks to you both for the information, i am now a hobbyist making parts for myself i want to use my CNC lathe for facing and inside turning outside tapers and radius's also threading would be nice my lathe is a rebuilt Denford orac so it's not a big machine but it is solid Brit iron.

Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on July 25, 2012, 01:35:48 PM
Rich
I know what you mean about the cash flow now being retired.

Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on July 25, 2012, 05:39:20 PM
Rich / Hood would either of you guy's be using the Dolphin mill software ?

Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: RICH on July 25, 2012, 06:03:14 PM
Dennis,
Never tried Dolphin Mill. Use LazyCam, Cambam and MeshCam.

RICH
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on July 25, 2012, 06:36:58 PM
No. never even looked at it I am afraid. I know a couple of people who do use it and it seems to work for them but it is not Mach they are using.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on July 26, 2012, 01:13:00 PM
Hood
I have tried visual mill and visual turn, mill worked but the finish was poor the turn did not work, for most of my mill work i use a great program D2NC it's a 2D package but it works well with Mach I need a turn program i just received a reply from Dolphin saying the demo doe's everything except generate code but that they guarantee the code though like i have not heard that before maybe you can give me some advise on how the Dolphin turn works for this purpose as a hobbyist i like to build model's of planes and cars and such so what i would like the turn program for is to make thing's such as landing gear, rims for tires so facing a rim and turning it to accommodate a tire would be what I want would this program do that ?

Dennis 
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on July 26, 2012, 01:29:07 PM
It should work fine, it does for me anyway. I do OD turning, ID turning, threading (both OD and ID)
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on July 26, 2012, 01:35:17 PM
Dennis, if you have Ver10 demo then I could take your .cnc file and produce the code for you as a test, if its ver11 demo then I probably cant.

Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on July 26, 2012, 02:18:42 PM
Hood
Well i have not down loaded the demo yet so i would think it to be the latest version when i do but i can check that thanks for your kind offer.

 Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: BR549 on July 26, 2012, 04:44:32 PM
Email them and ask for a demo that can WRITE the gcode you cannot test it without being able to do so. You may have to remind them of that fact(;-)

I would NOT even consider a program test that could not write the Gcode as part of the test.

I have done that several times and the companies sent a limited time version that would write code.

Can't hurt to ask, (;-) TP
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: RICH on July 26, 2012, 05:05:25 PM
Dolphin has a rather nice emulation for the pathing and if what you see works then with the right post processor all should be fine.
You will find that you use it a lot or at least i did when trying it out. But your right, Terry,  nothing beats backplotting the code and overlaying it on the drawn profile or runnng the code to see that all is well.

RICH
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: BR549 on July 26, 2012, 08:39:43 PM
There a many GOOD cams with LOUSY post for low end machines that do NOT work well for the low end applications.

(;-) TP
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on July 27, 2012, 01:11:08 PM
Thanks to you all for your input Dolphin just sent me an email saying they have dropped the pro version to $399 but if the hobby version is the same as the pro ver then it's not a savings is it ?  i would like to run the program code first before i buy i have been burned way to many times.

Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: CNC Junkie on July 27, 2012, 02:05:19 PM
Pro is not Lathe so I wouldn't focus on that. I use both their Mill and Lathe programs though and have nothing but good things to say. Depending on your background, it's pretty simple to go with. I'd ask them if they would allow posting code before just to see.
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: BR549 on July 27, 2012, 02:41:55 PM
Your answer is but an email away.

(;-) TP
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on July 28, 2012, 12:09:03 PM
well spoke to Dolphin on the phone seam nice to deal with they are having a special on version ten right now but version ten only accepts DXF files no Iges no big deal i can save any file as a DXF no biggie for me Dolphin did give me a trial version to post code with but i am having a problem getting to work right now.

Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on July 28, 2012, 01:36:28 PM
Guys when i download Dolphin dose it download both the lathe and mill or do i have to down each separately ?

Dennis   
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on July 28, 2012, 02:16:55 PM
I think it is both and either your licence or dongle then determines what you can use.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on July 29, 2012, 01:42:09 PM
Hood
I found it the program has a switch from mill to lathe now comes the learning part how to use the program, what dose the program like for a DXF file a side profile or a 3D billet that the program would split or ? any help as you have been there is greatly appreciated.

Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on July 29, 2012, 02:11:32 PM
I find the easiest is to produce a dxf of half of the part and if it has  internal work then providing a zero point with construction lines before you export into DolphinCAD is the easiest, or at least it is for me.
Below is an example of one part I make with the  DXF I used for the threaded stainless end.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on July 29, 2012, 02:20:21 PM
Heres what it looks like in DolphnCAM with and without the billet defined.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on July 29, 2012, 04:23:23 PM
Hood
Ok so the drawing is a 2D line drawing with a top view looking down at the part I can do that, Then if it has an inner well the drawing is defined outside and inside Dia is this correct ?
one thing i have found i had an Iges file and converted it to a DXF but when i opened the file into Dolphin it was just an outline 3D drawing not a solid any ideas this was in mill.

Dennis 
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hal on July 29, 2012, 06:07:07 PM
Iges files contain only the surface. They are hollow loke a chocolate bunny. When converting to a drawing, only the surface limits will be shown. My Edgecam does the samw to me.

For lathe work I normally draw the 2d and olny half the part.

Hal
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on July 30, 2012, 02:57:53 AM
You can import either the full section of the part or only half of it into DolphinCAD but half is much easier as you dont have to delete or split lots of lines to define the path.
When you import it into the CAM the CAM will then see the full section of the part.
I will post up a few pics later of the stages needed in CAD then how it imports to CAM.

Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on July 30, 2012, 05:00:48 AM
Have attached a quick intro into how I do things for Dolphin Turn, hopefully it will help get you started.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on July 30, 2012, 12:54:21 PM
Hood
Thanks that was a very good example I will give it try doesn't to involved.


Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on July 30, 2012, 08:06:24 PM
Hood
OK i have been playing around with the program and managed to get it cutting in simulation on screen, question if i am using a front turret then i would select the lower profile correct? next question if  the file profile has a notch say in the center area and one on the face how do i get the program to cut the inside notch it just goes on the outside profile and dose not touch the notch would this be another tool such as a grooving tool or how is this approached.

Dennis 
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on July 31, 2012, 03:07:11 AM
I am not sure how it would worlk to be honest as I initially had two turrets the rear being my default and front secondary. I think you may find that no matter whether you choose upper or lower profile the code will be produced depending on the designation of turret for that tool in the tool setup.


Not sure if I am understanding what you are meaning about a notch but possibly have a look on the second page of a toolpath and see if taking out the tick in the "stay out of undercuts" option is what you are looking for.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: RICH on July 31, 2012, 06:36:31 AM
Dennis,
Have a look at the attached.
FWIW,
RICH
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: EJParrott on July 31, 2012, 08:37:01 AM
Hood
OK i have been playing around with the program and managed to get it cutting in simulation on screen, question if i am using a front turret then i would select the lower profile correct?

If I understand you correctly, and I admit I use Mastercam not Dolphin, you don't need to select upper or lower, front or rear turrets, top or bottom profiles.  As Hood says, draw half the part in Top WCS, and in my case the front face is always Z0 and all turning is Z negative.  For an outside turning tool select the outer profile lines as the cut path, and for internal boring select that on the inside.  there is no selecting of turrets, although a little sideways thinking is sometimes required when using special tools.
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on July 31, 2012, 08:55:59 AM
You define tools in Dolphin by front or rear turret, approach direction and Left or Right handed.
I think it is the turret that defines whether there will be positive or negative values for the X in the code but likely that can be changed with the post processor.
What I would say is try with a rear tool assigned in Dolphin and it will show above centre line in the simulation in Dolphin but if your tool is at the front in Mach it will likely be OK and show as such in Mach.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on July 31, 2012, 12:51:56 PM
Thanks guys all very use full, working in the program and trying the simulation i found that you can select the front and rear halves of the profile and the approach is different as i select the sections to be cut I suppose it's a matter of getting my head wrapped around it Rich thanks for the lathe instructions. I found something wired yesterday i used the Dolphin cad to create a drawing just a very basic outline to work with i manged to get the program to simulate the cutting of the profile but when it finished up it pecked faced the front of the profile i retried it several times and it did the same thing meaning i deleted the file and started again trying to make sure it wasn't something i did.

Thanks for all your help.

Dennis   
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on July 31, 2012, 01:19:58 PM
Regarding the "it pecked faced the front of the profile" sounds like you didnt have the correct end point chosen, maybe something like Z as a positive or zero?
.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 01, 2012, 12:54:46 PM
Hood
I am sure its going to take some time to get acquainted with the program format with a little help now and then i am sure i can get there.

Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 01, 2012, 05:34:40 PM
Hi Hood/ Rich and everyone helping me out on this Dolphin program,
 so i took one of the examples in this case it was the door knob and did a post open it into Mach for the lathe for a simulation run and what i saw was crop circles in a billet must be doing something incorrect but what new software !

Thanks
Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on August 01, 2012, 05:47:26 PM
Probably wrong IJ mode, I altered my post processor to put a G90.1 in the preamble to all code.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 02, 2012, 12:41:58 PM
Hood
This is why its a good idea to try before you buy, OK so i will have to look at the post processor the one Dolphin gave me is supposed to be the latest version out.

Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on August 02, 2012, 01:17:43 PM
Either manually put a G90.1 on the first line in the code or alter the post processor to do it for you.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 02, 2012, 01:26:47 PM
Hood
Ok i give it a shot.

Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on August 02, 2012, 01:29:52 PM
If you want to put it in the post processor it is in the line that has the following

UNITS ? (G21_) / (G20_)] (G18_) (G64_) (G80_) (G90_) (M48_)

What you want to do is put this at the end  "G90.1"(_)

So the line would be
[UNITS ? (G21_) / (G20_)] (G18_) (G64_) (G80_) (G90_) (M48_)"G90.1"(_)

Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: RICH on August 02, 2012, 03:50:27 PM
Dennis,
Note that there are two pp one for radius and one for diameter. So be consitant in how you draw, what pp you use , and finaly how you have Mach configured.
RICH
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 03, 2012, 12:22:09 PM
Rich
Dolphin only gave one post processor I'll give them an email and see whats up why is it always a hassle to set up new software but at least with a forum like this one and guys like all of you willing to help out it makes things easier to follow.

Thanks
Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: RICH on August 03, 2012, 05:22:56 PM
Dennis,
Go to their site and you will find a list of currrent  pp available for download. They give an explaination for each.

RICH
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 04, 2012, 12:37:51 PM
Rich
Thanks again I am going to spend most of the day today working with the Dolphin program.

Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 04, 2012, 02:47:27 PM
Hey Guys
So i tried again to setup and use Dolphin with just a basic outside profile DXF file, first off Dolphin did not want to save the file where i wanted it to next it dose not show which processor is for an inside or outside profile also i could not get the program to to start and finish the cut where i wanted it to i am sure its me not clicking some box some where but i do see some problems maybe a mater of the learning curve but since i have just a short trial period before i buy i would like to see the program drive the machine and cut a basic part still trying oh and when i brig the file into Mach it still shows crop circles and the tool path wants to follow the circles not good can't seam to find the reverse arcs tick box.

Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on August 04, 2012, 04:11:33 PM
Never had an issue saving to where I wanted so not sure whats going on there.
Not sure what you mean with "next it dose not show which processor is for an inside or outside profile", the post processor will do both internal and external. The difference between the two Mach 3 post processors from Dolphin is one is for Radius mode the other Diameter.
Never had an issue with starting where I wanted either, its very configurable and you can tell it to strat and finish at exact positions if you wish.
Have you had a look at the tutorial video and the manual?
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: RICH on August 04, 2012, 06:42:05 PM
Dennis, if you looked at the file I posted you would see how to do some of what you are asking.

DOPLHIN TURNING POST PROCESSORS
Mach 3 - Radius mode T_mach3Rcss
 
Mach 3 - Diameter mode T_mach3DcssT

RICH
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 05, 2012, 01:10:13 PM
Guys OK so there is a difference between radius and diameter post rich i have only one post that dolphin provided that has a (t) in it the other dose not so dolphin must have made a change i contacted them and they have sent me yet another post to try but it is a single post processor. Hood when i contacted Dolphin they said because my machine has a front mounted tool post that i need to use the lower quadrant to work with for my start and finish positions and for some reason it is not processing the simulation or code correctly. when using the upper quad half the program in the simulation mode works to cut the profile but if i use the lower as Dolphin instructed the part gets cut off and won't cut the profile correctly so i don't know whats up here also it could be that i need to configure Mach differently to accept the code from Dolphin i don't know but i have used pieced together code from bob cad to make a small part and it worked just fine and i have another program from denford that is a real basic outside only turn program that works but i have to delete one line of code from the file that comes up numerous times in it which is a real pain this is why i have been trying to find one package that works.

Dennis 
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on August 05, 2012, 01:54:32 PM
I think it is the tool designation of front or rear that defines where the tool will cut but not sure. If you create a job then attach its .cnc file here I will be able to see what you are doing and maybe be able to help.

Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: EJParrott on August 05, 2012, 02:10:24 PM
I thought Mastercam was hardwork, it seems like this Dolphin thing is ten times more difficult to get working.  I have to ask, with this much trouble, is it really worth it?
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on August 05, 2012, 02:18:31 PM
I thought Mastercam was hardwork, it seems like this Dolphin thing is ten times more difficult to get working.  I have to ask, with this much trouble, is it really worth it?
I found it fairly easy, I downloaded the demo, watched the video/read manual  and had a part programmed soon after. I couldnt post code as it was the demo but I was happy enough that I bought it and a dongle, probably spurred on by the fact it was on a special deal at the time and cost me under £300 including the dongle and VAT.
The thing that took me a while was getting the Post Processor altered to suit my lathe as I had front and rear turret setup but once I got my head round it it wasnt too bad.
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 05, 2012, 03:04:54 PM
Hood
I think your right about the post and where the tool is front or rear of center line, i have not problem with the program and simulation but running the code is where most problems occur and getting the programs set up correctly to accept and work with one another was always the issue when i was a professional working with cad cam software.

EJParrott
I don't find the problems i am incurring with dolphin any different then others i have used in the past such products as smart cam and such what i have found after they have your money then it becomes a pissing match with oh no its not our product its the others guys product and no one wants to just help fix it this is where a great forum like this one comes into play.

Many thanks to all you guys

Dennis 
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: RICH on August 05, 2012, 03:42:22 PM
I never thought Dolphin was hard and frankly found it rather easy to use, since to me anyway, it mimicked what i would do manualy.
One just needs to spend some time finding out what all the other settings do and how to use them. In fact if one wants to they can extract info
and get very precise information from Dolphin.

The more control a program gives the user the more inputs and understanding is required. If you want limitations and a few clicks to get the job done then something like LT is ideal.

RICH

Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 06, 2012, 12:21:04 PM
Rich
I understand i have to learn where and what boxes have to be filed in or checked i don't find Dolphin hard to use at all it's the end code right now that is the problem the code is incorrect in Mach so the post has a problem i am working with Dolphin to get it fixed.

Thanks
Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on August 06, 2012, 01:36:10 PM
What mode are you in (radius or Dia)
What problems are you having with the code?
I am wondering if you tried an older PP whether it would work.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: RICH on August 06, 2012, 05:23:09 PM
Dernnis,
Do you have the dxf import options set?
Defined the machine type? ( ie; dia or radius)
Have Mach configured correctly ? ie; turn options  and also config distance and ij mode.

Draw in diameter mode, import in diameter mode, pp in diameter mode, have Mach set for diameter mode. Do not mix is the point.

RICH
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: RICH on August 06, 2012, 05:44:16 PM
Dennis,
Go to the Dolphin web site, SUPPORT>POST PROCESSORS
scroll down to the turning pp's and you will find the diameter and radius ones for Mach3.

Try the diameter one out.

I have attached a dxf for you to import. Define a button tool with a very small diameter, like 0.001" and use that to create code for just cutting a profile of the balls. All should work fine in Mach if Mach3 is configured correctly.

I am also attaching the code for the profile, this way you can play with the Mach settings or whatever. It does run.

BTW, I don't have anymore balls left..... ;)

RICH
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 07, 2012, 12:06:52 PM
Rich / Hood
Rich thanks for the code this will help me sort out where the problem is weather Mach or Dolphin, I had a lot of problem with Mach for my lathe then got it sorted with the help of Chip from this forum as i posted earlier Mach works just fine with the present cam programs i have they are just not that good for machining complicated shapes or inside turning facing ETC again my reason for looking at Dolphin. About the Balls its tuff getting older as its said getting old is not for sissies.
Hey Thansk for the extra ball though never know when a guy is going to need one.

Dennis
 
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 07, 2012, 12:55:56 PM
Rich
I loaded the code you post here into Mach for my lathe and got crop circles so while Mach works for my present setup it is not going to work for Dolphin i have Mach version R3.042.029 this is what i am presently running in the past when i have updated Mach it has screwed up the settings and then it a real pain to get thing's back up and running again would you think my present version of Mach to be the problem ?

Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on August 07, 2012, 01:32:59 PM
Crop circles are because of one of the following.
1.As mentioned a while back your IJ mode could be set wrong, putting a G90.1 at the beginning of the code will assure it gets set right.
2. You have the option of Reverse Arcs for Front Toolpost set wrong or your tools are set wrong in the table.
If you cant get it attach your xml and I will look.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: RICH on August 07, 2012, 05:46:07 PM
In general config click absolute mode and also absolute for IJmode. Tick the diameter and reversed arcs in turn options.
That is what my settings are and get no crop circles.

Just purchased Dolphin but it is Rev 11 and need to get my license and play around.

RICH
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 08, 2012, 01:52:19 PM
Rich / Hood
So its not the version but the setup OK i will give it look and see if  the setting changes straightens it out thanks. OK i am in the system config of Mach i see the distance mode and IJ mode and i have changed them as Rich described but i do not see turn options in the sys cofig box where is this located?

Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on August 08, 2012, 02:25:23 PM
OK i am in the system config of Mach i see the distance mode and IJ mode and i have changed them as Rich described but i do not see turn options in the sys cofig box where is this located?
Config menu then Ports and Pins then Turn Options.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 08, 2012, 03:53:38 PM
Thanks to many buttons
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 08, 2012, 03:59:49 PM
Hood
 OK, went to config ports and pins found that reverse arcs was already checked but it was in radius so i checked the dia and loaded the balls same thing crop circles.

Thanks
Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on August 08, 2012, 04:09:13 PM
Attach your xml and I will have a look.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 08, 2012, 04:32:25 PM
Hood
Thanks here it is.

Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on August 08, 2012, 05:04:03 PM
Dennis, that has a Mill screen loaded so I think it must be the wrong xml.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Overloaded on August 08, 2012, 05:12:36 PM
After changing the IK mode, are you Regenerating the toolpath/file ?
It won't show correctly until you do.
Maybe ?
Russ
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: RICH on August 08, 2012, 05:25:58 PM
See attached.....
RICH
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 08, 2012, 08:49:36 PM
Rich
 Yes it is the same screen as is used in the mill application but i modified it to use in the lathe as i did not like the lathe screen you may be right so i will change the screen to the lathe screen set up and see what happens.

Dennis 
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on August 09, 2012, 02:46:56 AM
You can use the Mill screen but you MUST change the file extension to .lset. If  you dont then Mach will treat it as a mill.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 09, 2012, 01:13:04 PM
Hood
That's exactly what i did changed it to Lset unless when i did an update the update changed it back to Mill set. Just took a look at Mach and see there are more then one XML also i looked and the screen set is named 1024 Lset so don't know whats up?

Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on August 09, 2012, 01:44:11 PM
The xml you attached was not the correct one, it had no config in it so likely it was the standard Mill one you attached.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 09, 2012, 02:22:14 PM
Hood
I have gone back to a normal Lset screen and then loaded the ball tap file found the same condition made changes to the reverse arcs and diam no change in the crop circles and how can i find the backup XML for the lathe what would be its name.

Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on August 09, 2012, 03:10:03 PM
Whatever your lathe profile is called is the xml you need to attach. If for example you are using the standard lathe profile look for a file called Mach3Turn.xml and attach that (renamed for forum) If you made a custom profile then the xml will have the name of whatever you called the profile.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 09, 2012, 07:07:22 PM
Hood
How about this one .

Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 09, 2012, 07:08:42 PM
Hood
Finlay the system took the file i had made several attempts to upload it but the system would not accept the file even changing the name.

Thanks
Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on August 10, 2012, 02:05:19 AM
Atill not it Dennis.
Tell you what to do, open Mach as you normally would then go to view and load the Mill screenset then lower right you will see profile, find a file with that name and a xml extension. Before you close Mach however change back to a lathe screenset.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: RICH on August 10, 2012, 05:37:52 AM
Modified xml from your post which will use the lathe screen. You will need to configure  it for your machine ie; tuning, pin assignments, etc.
But for now, the display will show correctly for the code posted.
RICH

Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 11, 2012, 01:34:09 PM
Hood / Rich
Hood i look for the file Bu ti don't understand the reason to look for a mill screen set XML as i am using a modified mill screen 1024 LSET.
Rich I will load the modified XML you posted and see what gives thank you both for the help.

Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on August 11, 2012, 04:10:43 PM

Hood i look for the file Bu ti don't understand the reason to look for a mill screen set XML as i am using a modified mill screen 1024 LSET.

Dennis

The reason I said to load the mill screen is it has the name of the profile and ths the name of the xml you need to look for. Your modified mill to turn screenset may also have that, if it does no need to load the mill one.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 11, 2012, 05:24:05 PM
Hood
This is the file i found MAch loading displayed in the lower right hand corner of the screen.

Thanks
Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on August 11, 2012, 05:44:00 PM
You have Incremental IJ  mode chosen and also you are running in Radius mode.
If you wish to run Radius then you will need to use the radius Post Processor.
The IJ mode needs to be set to Absolute, as mentioned earlier the best way to do that is in your code by having a G90.1 at the start. Changing it in General Config will also do it but the danger there is some other code may change it to Absolute and then if your new code is written in Absolute mode and there is no G90.1 at the start it will not produce the correct toolpath.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 12, 2012, 01:03:11 PM
Hood
In one of my earlier post i stated that I had made the changes to Mach going to Dia & absolute also the code had a G90 at the start but the screen showed the same crop circles and the cutter followed the display so for sure something is wrong just don't know what?

Thanks
Dennis 
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on August 12, 2012, 01:40:39 PM
The xml you attached does not have these changes and when I changed them it displayed correctly so try again as it seems you did not change them correctly.
Oh and BTW it is not G90 it is G90.1.
G90 & G91 are distance mode, G90.1 & G91.1 are IJ Mode

Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 12, 2012, 02:10:46 PM
Hood
I work with the settings in Mach and got it to display the proper code file Balls for Dennis What i changed was Diam unchecked reverse Arch, Distance changed to absolute and IJ to absolute and the code displayed was correct so i think i have the problem fixed at least it seams so right now next i will go back to Dolphin and see if i can draw a part and code it to run on Mach.

Many thanks for your and Rich help
Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on August 12, 2012, 02:27:27 PM
Dia unchecked is not correct for that file as Rich used the Dia post processor, you need Dia chosen for that. If you wish to use Radius you will need to use a Radius post processor for Dolphin.
If you have Dia unchecked and it is showing correctly then I dont know how unless you did not regenerate the toolpath.

Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 13, 2012, 01:06:35 PM
Hood
 I checked it and then tried the code the cutter would clip the back side of the balls but when i unchecked it the cutter ran along the back side with out clipping them.

Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on August 13, 2012, 01:22:09 PM
Dennis, please attach the xml you have changed as I am perplexed as to  how it could possibly be showing correctly if you are in Radius mode when the code was written in Dia mode.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: RICH on August 13, 2012, 09:00:44 PM
Dennis,
The xml I posted in reply #96 works and brings up the standard lathe screen set. So if you do nothing other than just load the program posted in reply #73 it will run and the path shown is correct.

You absolutely need to have your xml correct so you know what is being portrayed is correct, and if not, you probably did a booboo in Dolphin.
I will echo again, IE; Draw in diameter, configure Dolphin for diameter, use a Dolphin diameter post, have Mach configured for diameter. Do not mix diameter with radius anywhere along the way. KISS applies  ;)

I am still waiting for my license. I requested a pp for radius and diameter but as provided they did not work for V11.  :(
Not sure what they sent you Dennis...read on.

Hood,
Thanks for the pp mod as it worked for both of the V10 pp's for use in V11. I looked in the manual and there is not crap on what to do.
Now I want to just confrrm that they  post correct pathing to have confidence in them ( so far so good   :D).  Also got the CAD import to cam profile
creation down path, hey hey , amazing what one wrong click can do......  ::)

RICH

Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 14, 2012, 05:19:56 PM
Rich
Dolphin kept sending me a different post every time i contacted them it was hi Dennis try this post see if it works so i don't know what they sent but i am with you on the kiss method i will use the #73 and #96 see what happens thanks again.

Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: RICH on August 14, 2012, 11:05:38 PM
Dennis,
I'll get Mach3 diameter & radius post processors posted on this site for your use with V11.
1. You need to have Mach display properly using what was posted.
2.Then when 1. is working, you will need to learn a few things in Dolphin CAD so you can create a proifle for use in the CAM.
   Dosen't work like V10 did.
   I will post a how to do that including adding the pp's to the program.
3.With the CAD working and the pp's installed, then you will need to learn how to use the CAM part. Let not your heart be troubled
   as i will post another example how to.

Dolphin is working on updating the site to have new pp's for V11 available for downloading and new documentation. Should you get bored,
search you tube as there are number of videos which one should watch very carefully.  ;D

Remember that this is all fun,   ;)
RICH
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on August 14, 2012, 11:12:29 PM
Rich, I thought Dennis said he was buying V10 as it was on special  but may be mistaken.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: RICH on August 15, 2012, 06:12:02 AM
Dennis,
Please confirm what version your using.

RICH
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 15, 2012, 12:47:55 PM
I  have version 10 i have not purchased it yet as i wanted to fix the problems i was having with the example code in Mach.

Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: CNC Junkie on August 15, 2012, 09:48:25 PM
I'm sure you'll get along great with it Dennis.
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 16, 2012, 11:58:01 AM
Thanks guys i am trying to learn where all the buttons and switches are that make it all run.

Dennis
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: DennisF on August 17, 2012, 07:12:24 PM
Guys a question regarding the use of Dolphin when designing a part should the part be in a certain quadrant like upper left hand quadrant or right hand quadrant the start of the part be up against the 00 cross heirs and so on ?like when i design for a mill part it is in the upper right hand quadrant this maybe part of my problem as well thanks in advance.

Dennis 
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on August 17, 2012, 07:26:22 PM
Are you drawing the part in DolphinCAD or are you drawing in some other CAD and importing the DXF?
It shouldnt really matter where you draw as long as you pick the correct point as the origin when in DolphinCAD.
For lathe work it is normal to have the front centre of the part as the X/Z zero, That would mean all X values would be positive and all Z values negative.
I draw my parts of the upper half of the section as I have a rear turret but I would imagine you should be able to draw the lower section if you wanted, reason being when you open in CAM you get both halves of the section displayed.
Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: RICH on August 17, 2012, 07:46:06 PM
Dennis,
I made a video on the three balls  from importing the dxf to machining the profile.
Send me a PM with your email address and i'll send it to you. The next one will have audio.

RICH
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: Hood on August 17, 2012, 07:47:52 PM
Should that not have a X X X rating Rich, a video of three balls? :D

Hood
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: RICH on August 17, 2012, 07:54:13 PM
Maybe when I add the audio to it. Heck I may as well include using the pp and show the mach end of it also.
BTW, I did make one with audio, but the boss was giving me some guff, made me screw it up some, and my recorded
comments were past the adult supervision warning.  >:D  ;D

The licenses work on both machines, so if one generates a request make sure that your  security is turned off.

RICH
 
Title: Re: re:CNC Lathe program
Post by: CNC Junkie on August 18, 2012, 02:00:29 PM
LOL