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

Thanks John,

I should clarify my view point. I realize all the facets to a real CAM program.
The start/stop locations, depth control, specific machine commands and the
like...........

But, think for a moment as to how hpgl has been used by the newbie over the years.
He creates a drawing, makes different entities different colors, then exports hpgl
"code" per "part" or "line" he wants to cut, more often than not using the (export)
"Selected Only" checkbox to its full, or the option "by color". Often, one would or
could re-assemble these independent sections of code into one tool path file.

Additionally, In many cases, the hpgl would even allow some division that could be
applied for depth and or speed via the "Pen Color" commands sent with the file. So,
some "division" for "cutting" was there. This truly is the poor mans Cam.
Unfortunately, many have been forced to use it on the commercial engraving machine
level as the results one needed were not always easy to get with the commercial
software packages when using hpgl.

My real point was that hpgl is nothing more than X-Y locations, just the format is
different when displayed in characters. Many could do FAR better if there was a
generic G-Code export option.

One example of such a generic G-code export is found in a Generic G-code driver in
Signlab. Irrelevant as to "order", "depth" and the like, it WILL spit out straight
up G-Code to reflect the "picture" you have pointed out.

I know I would rather be a newbie wrestling with that kind of output in a good yet
inexpensive G-Code editor than any baloney it takes to really understand and edit
hpgl. I had to manage toolpaths for OEM hpgl engraving machines. PAIN. Too many
varieties (6 machines) not unlike you point out for G-code machines. BUT, far more
manageable when in G-Code.

Actually, as I recall, Corel Draw has some "open" interface capability. This is
proven by all the 3rd party Corel "add-ons" available, even "Cad" tools that run
inside of it. I am suprised no one has made a generic G-code filter to export with.

Clearly, I do not speak of sophisticated machining via such a technique. I am just
recalling that some things were possible that old fashioned and very miserable way.
I remember them well and will be the first to suggest that anyone serious about
this hobby go out and BUY software that works. The PAIN of the dollar amount goes
away as soon as you realize how productive you are now compared to how productive
you were then.

I am sure TurboCad and all of the programmers that they undoubtedly have can
accomplish this without too much work.

Chris L


Jon Elson wrote:

> 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
>
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