re: CNC UI (V hj vs. conversational prgmmg)

Alan wrote:

>Just took a look at ShopBot and examined the .sbp files. Don't know
>from a brief look why they just didn't use gcode!
>
>JZ, .5
>M2, 10, 5
>MZ, -.5
>
> These are simple replacements for:
>
>G0 Z 0.5
>G1 X 10.0 Y 5.0
>G1 Z -0.5
>
>So you really just have the same thing. Reinvented the wheel. Is
>that part of what you're after?

No, I'm fine w/G code. But...

It IS worth noting, that your "equivalent" uses 24 key strokes, while
theirs uses 18! (adjusting for white space which is not required in
either format) To do the same thing.

That's a 25 % reduction!! In only 3 short codes. GOTTA be
better "throughput" in the control. And ALL commands are 2 letters.
More like a 3d HPGL.

>I also got that you could use a "conversational" input (fill in
>the boxes) to generate the part file, or run the 'bot immediately, I
>would guess. Is this part of what we're after?

Yes. This is some of what I've been writing about. Campaigning, even.

>I'm wondering if there is a way to use Vector for
>the "conversational" part, and command immediate cuts. I think it
>can "export" to another machine, which could be like the MDI input
>of the controller program (the MaxNC or CNCpro). OK, I'll think
>about this some more.

Fred has got to LOVE this! :-)

>Maybe we just need to add a "machine control" >screen to Vector!
>I understand that there is some DLL style connectivity coming up for
>vector. Vector (or your favorite CAD) could then a "module" in your
>machine control system. Once the gcode is in the NC window,
>you "send" it to the "MILL CONTROLLER" window. Yeah, that's it.
>Alan

Be vewwy, vewwy careful here! Fred said He'd have to KILL anyone who
knew what new "windows machine control" software was coming...
Thanks for the "clue" about vector DLL style connectivity ;-) .

BTW, Larry Kenny at Larken automation already has LCAM working this
way. Not in windows, but CAD/CAM/CNC integrated. Nice pkg.

Also Dennis Bohlke with Supercam. I'd LOVE to have access to the
source code of Supercam... Hate the interface. Love the possibilities.

Hope this helps.

Ballendo