Messages

91

General Mach Discussion / Re: Could this be done with Mach

« on: August 20, 2011, 09:15:47 PM »

Ok, it looks like it will work. You just need to be sure your X and A axises are fast enough to keep up with the feed of Z. Just like I said before its all about timing the 2nd tool (whatever the offset between them and the feed rate). Programming this by hand will become a mind bender for sure. Its just like 3 axis 3D profiling. That you just don't do by hand as well.

92

Modbus / Re: DIY MODBUS I/O board.

« on: August 20, 2011, 04:57:45 PM »

Sorry... posted before reading...

Please note. The source code for the firmware is not included and I currently don't have any intention to release it. One of the reasons for doing this project was to show some of the capabilities of the MODBUS "driver" I've developed for the PBP compiler. My intention is to license that driver to other developers using PBP who are looking for a MODBUS driver. This application works as a "demo" for that driver. So, the source code is not available.

93

Modbus / Re: DIY MODBUS I/O board.

« on: August 20, 2011, 04:53:52 PM »

Henrik,

Any chance of releasing the source code for those of us that like to play with Pic micos? Very cool project.

Wes

94

General Mach Discussion / Re: Could this be done with Mach

« on: August 20, 2011, 02:37:51 PM »

I think BR549 is right. I just did some tests myself and one of the 2 axises will always be incorrect. I guess maybe Mach cant do it???

95

General Mach Discussion / Re: Could this be done with Mach

« on: August 20, 2011, 12:56:22 PM »

I wish I could. Its all about math and will probably take some trial and error to get it just right. If It was me I think a single cutter (each axis would have its own pass) would be much easier to use. I would just do it in 2 passes. I am not familiar with wood lathe cam packages to recommend anything. 

Wes

96

General Mach Discussion / Re: Could this be done with Mach

« on: August 20, 2011, 12:25:48 PM »

Well since your Z is always the same on both tools you need to figure out the time it takes between the tools to be in the same spot to start using the finishing axis (A) and the give it the commands with X. It basically just a simple delay based on the feed rate of Z. You can always post out the roughing... then the finishing. Figure out timing point (offset) to graft them together. Like I say the G-code is the issue not Mach. Mach with just do what its told.

97

General Mach Discussion / Re: Could this be done with Mach

« on: August 20, 2011, 12:10:18 PM »

Yes this can be done with Mach. It is simply a 3 axis machine. You will not be able to show the correct toolpath simulation in Mach however. The way I would set it up depends on the post processor that you intend to be using. A simple way would be a simple 2 axis lathe setup with X as the rougher and A as the finisher. If you having an issue wrapping your head around this just think about 3D ball milling on a 3 axis mill. All 3 axises are driven simultaneously. Where it become complicated is in creating the G-code.

98

Works in progress / Re: THE LATHE PROJECT - 2011

« on: August 20, 2011, 11:55:56 AM »

As far as a time line goes... I want this right before it goes out. I have many of the wizards created.  I have the layout 99% finalized but still creating graphics and finalizing scripts. Right now its running my 9x20 converted lathe with touchscreen quite well. I will post a couple more screens as well as create a new thread on this sometime this weekend. Might make a video as well showing just how easy it is to create a simple program using multiple tools.

99

Works in progress / Re: THE LATHE PROJECT - 2011

« on: August 19, 2011, 06:51:01 PM »

As cool as everyones designs are they still never quite fit what I was looking for. I have decided to go my own direction with something I have had in the works for quite some time. It has always been a dream of mine to create a full conversational interface with a professional control look and function. With this screen set not only will it offer a clean professional layout similar to a real control it will also allow you to build full programs right from the multiple "wizards" that are imbedded into the interface. You will have full control of each operation. You can view all operations as well as delete last op and save the program you created. Just about anything simple can be programmed right on the IPS system complete with multiple tooling. This is very similar to what Haas Automation offers on there tool room series lathes. The amount of time I have put into this I will be charging a small amount for it when its finished if anyone is interested. Here is a screen shot of the OD turn IPS wizard so you can get an idea of what I am talking about. I would love to hear feedback of any kind.

Thanks,
Wes

100

Show"N"Tell ( What you have made with your CNC machine.) / Re: Using Biodiesel as a machining fliud - Video

« on: August 16, 2011, 04:02:42 AM »

Interesting. Does it smell like french fries when you cut? Nice work on the gang tooling as well. If you don't mind me asking, how do you adjust the height of the tools?