Re: Lathe software once again

--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@y..., Ethan Vos <ethan@f...> wrote:

> While we're on this topic, I've been looking for a lathe type
>software but I need the following:
>
> The dimensions cannot use decimal places, i.e. 3.15 needs to be
>written as 31500
>
> I need to be able to define a bar pulling sequence.
>
> The lathe that I'm using has (I think) an odd way of handling tool
>offsets and so the program looks like:
>
> T100 (Call tool without offset)
> G00X0Y0T101 (The 101 specifies tool # 100 with offset 01)
> Cut part
> HomeT100 (Go back to the home position without the offset)
>
> I also use the Block Delete a lot.
>
> The spindle has 32 speeds so I need to be able to specify high or
>low range (M38 and M39) and then the speed (S1 through S16).
>
> Any ideas, suggestions and/or advice are welcome.
>
> Thanks
>

Ethan,
Sorry if I keep sounding like an echo but a program called Dolphin
can do this with no problem.
The post processor can be configured to do all of the above. It uses
a post processor as opposed to a text based config file so it
generates the code at the end of the process and not on the fly.
Copied from their small sales book:-

Dolphin CAM Turning
-------------------
Supports 2 axis lathes with either a single or double turret, also
lathes with a sadle configuration.

Supports bar feeders, parts catchers.

Tooling database.

Display tool centreline or complete tool animation with tool holder.

Canned cycles for facing and turning with automatic area clearance
between billet and finished profile, also facility for defining stock
such as casting or forged blank.

Canned cycles for drilling, tapping, boring, reaming, threading. All
of which may be parallel or tapered.

Separate finishing allowance in Z and X.

Grooving cycles for face and diameter with options for lip and root
chamfers or fillets.

Part surface programming.

Constant surface speed control.

Input simple profiles 'on the fly' without having to define them
within the CAD system.

Gouge free machining.

Cycle time estimates.

Output to virtually any machine tool with built in post processor and
RS232 comms package.

Operator setup sheets which show tooling required and machining
sequence.

Automatic generation of backup files to guard against power failure.

Powerfull editing facility to alter machining strategy if required.

John S.