Re: How to go from 2.5 D to real 3 D ??

--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@y..., "Fred Smith" <imserv@v...> wrote:

(snip)

>
> Most current mainline controllers do not have limited memory. They
> are PC technology based, have hard drives, and network
connections.
> File size is no longer an issure for modern controls, even in the
> hobby market most of the manufacturers have eliminated file size
> limitations in the last year. They ALL are working on continuous
> contouring, especially after our little test program at NAMES last
> year.


By current controllers, I was referring to currently installed, the
vast majority of which have limited memory, with no way to
economically increase that memory.

> My point here is, it's very worthwhile paying a few bucks more and
> > getting a controller that has the 3 axis circular interpolation
> > capability. It may not give you the ability to do things you
> > couldn't do otherwise, it might let you do them easier and in
less
> > time, though.
> >
>
> How many bucks, what kind of controller? Is it suitable for home
> shop use? I don't know one hobby class controller that does what
you
> are recommending.
>
Hmmm, are we limiting ourselves to hobby class controllers? I know
the stated intent of this forum is hobby CNC'ing. But, in fact, I
don't think that's the way it is. My guess is well over 50% here are
either CNC'ing for money or are on a fast track to doing that, that
group certainly won't limit themselves to hobby controllers. I'd be
interested to know how many are here purely for the hobby and have no
interest in getting up to speed so they can produce some little niche
market product to partially offset the cost of their CNC'ing.

Have you noticed some of the big guys are now offering starter
machines at almost hobby prices, Haas for example.

What kind of controller? Most of the controllers I can think of
offer options like axis rotation that will allow my hemi-sphere
example to be done with only a few lines of code. I believe Haas
charges something like $1500 for that option. Money well spent.

thanks,

Doug