Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Re: TurboCad CAM???

Chris L wrote:

> What I really want to know is, if it really is so hard to add CAM
> possibilities to a CAD program, especially if it is just 2-1/2d.
>
> In my feable mind, I clearly see, and have seen hpgl output work for years
> across MANY programs. hpgl output is nothing other than X,Y locations with PU
> (penup) and PD (pendown) commands. Think about it, Who didn't have hpgl
> output ????

HPGL just draws the picture, and not necessarily in any order, and it is
only 2D. CAM has to MACHINE the PART, not make a picture of it.
It has to worry about the order in which to make each move, how to remove
material in a manner so as not to overload the machine, damage the part,
break the cutting tool, etc. It also has to do this in an efficient manner, as
the cutting tool can't CUT at the speed a pen draws.

How do you efficiently cut the stamping mold that made your car hood, for
instance? If you don't do it right, it might take weeks instead of days, or
not give the right surface, or have gouges somewhere.

Jon