Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Re: TurboCNC

In a message dated 5/7/01 9:14:09 AM Eastern Daylight Time,
dkowalcz@... writes:

> Randy,
>
> Well, I probably won't go for the look ahead algorithm -- it gets
> hairy pretty quick! Or if I did, I'd probably have to "upgrade" the
> price too... But that's not to say I haven't seriously thought about
> it.
>
> Here's the laundry list of upgrades in the works. I'll call it a
> rev 4.0 when I can check off about 70% of them or so. The most
> important thing to add, I feel, is the closed loop threading. Most
> of these were user suggestions.
>
> - Spindle encoder support
> - Constant lead threading (closed loop to spindle)
> - Assembly language MCU for speed (motion control unit)
> - Mouse pull-down menus (especially for files)
> - Integrated code editor
> - Conversational machining / G code builder
> - Canned cycles for turning, peck drilling
> - Toolpath visualization
> - Backlash compensation
> - Radius compensation
> - Jogging wheel encoder input
> - Improved hyperlink based help system
> - Parabolic and function based f(x) curve generator
> - Parameters and looping codes
> - 12 bit output
> - Multiple input file flavors (TurboCNC, Fanuc, CNCpro, HPGL, etc..)
> - Letter engraving macros or font reading capability
> - Anti-crash watchdog
> - Machine hours/job logging function
> - Command line batch programming
> - PET "PLC Emulator Thingy"
> - External disable for PLC handshaking
> - Overtemperature trip
> - "Top Five" most recent files/macro commands
> - Soft limits and homing functions
> - Drive disable outputs
>
> Whew! But I've got a month off between jobs here, so who knows...
> Any suggestions, criticisms, etc - feel free to sound off!
>
> Dave Kowalczyk
> Ames IA --> Seattle WA
>
>

Dan:
The list looks great, especially the radius compensation. That is
something that none of the popular interpreters seem to be able to integrate,
they say it is way too complicated to implement. The main reason I was
asking about the look ahead is that I am doing retrofits on old CNC routers
for cutting wood and ANY small pause in the movement will cause a little
"dimple" which is actually more of a burn spot due to the high spindle speed
(12,000 rpm up to 24,000 rpm) and when you finish the part with stain or even
some paints then the "dimple" shows up like a sore thumb. I was under the
impression that without the look ahead then you couldn't implement the
constant contouring that is used to correct the jerky motion of the machine.

At this point I think I will give it a try on a prototype and see what
happens. By the way, it would not be a problem for me if you did "increase
the price" and included the more advanced features.

Regards,

Randy Abernathy
Woodworking Machine Specialist
4626 Old Stilesboro Road NW
Acworth, GA 30101-4066
Phone/Fax: 770-974-5295
E-mail: cnc002@...


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