Scott,
The version of NCplot 1'm running is V2.0 Beta 24
I hope that helps.
My wish list - as far as I've got:
1. A mechanism to switch off (not set to zero) 'Z' Retract when setting a DXF import that has incremental Z steps.
Why? - Because if you step through a plot at every complete cycle the tool retracts in and out of the block needlessly, and comes to rest at the new Z start point. The advantage is twofold: No contact part marking due to the unwanted movement, and improved path definition. There is a but....
If you enable the switch off 'Z' Retract during a program running a Z incremental step, then I think you need to add a forced insertion of Z retract at the end of that toolpath, before the plot moves to the next block of code. This ensures the tool is clear of the block before moveing. Note - for this function to work, you still need to set the value for Z retract, but it is only added to the code at the end of the block, not at the end of every cycle.
2. A mechanism to change layer names
In many organisations the CAD operator is not generally the machine operator/programmer, so the names on the layers are sometimes meaningless to the machine operator - I'm sure he would prefer to rename them to something he understands.
The DXF I sent you was drawn by my son - he understands the layer names - I needed them to be explained!
3. A mechanism to insert a Block header
I know you can insert a header / footer for each layer at the time of DXF conversion, and save standard info in the machine setups.
What I'm asking for is a mechanism to add a header / footer to the whole Gcode programme. It would have two uses: Some CNC machines require a block header before they will run - this is the way to add it, and even if they do not, it is a good place to put designer / programmer / company specific information in a standard format.
4. Following on from the above, the ability to display the block in the plot window, so that you can view the layout of your part relative to the block. Perhaps you can choose to have the block showing or not (a tick box?)
Perhaps the block is shown as say a shaded block or dotted lines by default using the part information found in tools / part info, which could be modified manually. The block should update automatically on any changes to show the corrected size. There are many uses for this view, not least the possibility to use find and replace all x and y coordinates so as to move the part location relative to the block
5. Macro creation buttons
I know you can run macros - though I have not run any of them yet
What I am suggesting is that certain macros be brought out to the panel above the plot window, so that one click opens up a specific macro creation tool.
Macros I think that would be good:
A... Surface face
For instance call up and amend the block info, set the Z depth and tool size and then get the macro to calculate the path to follow to surface the block
B. Mill leaving islands
i.e. select and adjust the block, select components, select tool and then calculate a path to mill the surface avoiding the selected components.
C. Pocket
One advantage of this approach would be to encourage people who create macros for their own use to share them
I'm sure others will have other suggestions
Regards
Clik!  |