Re: TurboCNC

Dave,

Looks like quite a list!

Do you REALLY need 'closed loop' threading? You can just interpolate
from the spindle encoder, using IT as the "master" axis. I described
how Microkinetics does this with their instep library command
ISTHREADER in a previous post... (a fair while back) Only catch is
that the spindle needs to be the "longest" axis (for most
interpolation routines). You could "multiply" the spindle encoder by
two to keep it the "longest". MK also has an offset from the index
pulse of the spindle encoder, for multi-start threads.
(forgive me if your new pkg already HAS basic threading. I haven't
looked at it in awhile)

If you add mouse-able menus, please dont forget keyboard shortcuts so
the mouse doesn't HAVE to be used...

Hope this helps.

Ballendo

--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@y..., dkowalcz@i... wrote:
> 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.
>
> 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
>
> --- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@y..., cnc002@a... wrote:
> > Dave:
> >
> > Thanks for the information. What new features will version 4.0
> contain?
> > Will it have "look ahead" and/or constant contouring abilities?
> >
> > Regards,
> >
> > Randy Abernathy
> > Woodworking Machinery Specialist
> > 4626 Old Stilesboro Road NW
> > Acworth, GA 30101
> > Phone / Fax: 770-974-5295
> > E-mail: cnc002@a...
> >