I really like what you've got going on here, nice back knife system Al. Hope you can figure out the code. Does anyone know if Artcam handles this better?

Al, I will post and explain how to do a rough cut later with pic`s.

Eding cnc has a good lathe section and you can also easily write macros. But you need their controller which will cost you.... But the software is free to download so you can play with it for a while and see if it might be an option ?

one word.... linuxcnc :)

Ezilathe
 

After a lot of searching I found 'Ezilathe'
http://www.machsupport.com/forum/ind...topic=27514.20

R1.4 on page 3 with a PDF file as well.
It is free and it works.

The only thing to look out for is a G28 at the end of the program.
If you are turning between centers remove the G 28 or it will try to send the Z axis home through the tailstock.Also make sure Z0 is he front face of the job otherwise you will get an error.

There is also a thread on CNC Zone.
http://www.cnczone.com/forums/uncate...cnc-forum.html

If you want to turn get this software.

Blank cleaning
 

This might be difficult to snap the first time but hope it helps as this is the way I clean my blanks.
I first draw it in cad and export it in a dxf file.
Lets say that the blank is 30 mm x 30 mm square and 100 mm long.
Work out the Pi value in this case 94.2478 mm.You will see that I have drawn a pink line on the right side of my blank.I know that I will use a 12 mm dia cutter to clean or do my rough cutting ( or use the cutting width of your chisel).

I then draw 2 lines the length of the Pi value ( x-axis 0 + 6 mm ( radius of cutter) + 6 mm ).
From the 6 mm ( y-axis 0 point ) draw a line at an angle so that it cross the second line (12 mm x -axis value and 94.2478 y-axis (Pi value ) line in green see drawing.
draw this line so that it crosses the pink line.This point will be the point where the cutter will stop an start again to return.

Import the dxf file to arguments sake to vectric cut 2d.
do a cut on the line away 1.5 mm deep ( not to much ).then return it on that same line cutting another 1.5 mm deep , do this till the required depth is reached.This way one can control the cutting speed and it will reduce the time spent to clean the blank.

Keep in mind that the value of my y-axis is the same as the Pi value = to 1 revolution of 360 degrees.( do spread sheet to work it out )

pic of a 1860 mm post

Thank you for sharing your procedure Hennie.
I have got Ezilathe working well so I will stick with it.

I've generated the G-Code with Delcam FeatureCAM Turning

http://youtu.be/0lETcKzd1zE

Guys...
One last look before it goes to the new owner: https://youtu.be/4j_GFr0spSE

Toolpathed with VCarve Pro (or Cut2D)

Very nice indeed.
I hope one day to build something that cuts and looks as good as that.
Not easy I know.
Dedication, that's the word.

Al...
Thank you. I was a fun 6 month project. It was nice to start on a robust platform AND have an ample budget, too!

Nice job Gary. Very nice indeed.

4 axis+lathe, Baluster

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x3b...-baluster_tech

Guys...
Current project is a little brother to the unit I posted above.


Usually I construct a special purpose machine that has specs above what an OEM would have. Not so in this case, as affordable NEMA 23 motors and an inexpensive 5 amp drive system was used. If you watch carefully you will notice that I am pushing the cuts about as fast as they can go.

Also note that this is an attempt to quantify and compare speed, not quality. You should be aware that they are inversely proportional. This and some soon to come, will show as many ways to reduce rotary machining time where possible to allow time for the time consuming 3D portions of the cutting, if needed.

Enjoy: https://youtu.be/WpLfE6kn0j4


The machine is based on the Jet 122vs with stand. Fully supported linear rails and ballscrews. Porter Cable 1.75 hp router. 5 amp 4 channel drive. System control is currently designed for WinCNC as it has the most elegant control options, but this system (with DB25 connection) is close to plug and play with Mach, LinuxCNC, UCCNC, Planet and others. Optional DB37 to DB25 adapter required for ShopBot. Not all features are supported by all control systems. Complete assembled and tested systems available as are kits for standard and extended lengths.
For more info email: [email protected]

Seriously impressive work, Gary, as usual.

Here is a rotary based video for Jim's Aspire Camp. This is just some minor toolpath trickery.

Done in VCPro, no rotary wrapped job required. The quickest way I have found to develop a rotary 3D profile. Pay no attention to the ugly shape, this is a "proof of concept"

https://youtu.be/9bLnP9R7bE0

That is Flippin Cool Gary. Well Done.

Always been fascinated by your creations on....CNC attachments, jigs and other.... wizardry....in this ...what, past +/- 10yrs !!?
You're an inspiring one....thks for sharing !!

A brace of cannon.

Well that's super cool!

Looks like fun starting a race or celebrating holidays!