Ok, Whats a good way to learn geometry creation and toolpathing for a 4th axes. I don't have one yet but want to let it start soaking into my little brain. Todd

Are you talking about a conventional 4th axis on a vertical machine?

I've only begun to dabble in this myself, using.....you guessed it...OneCNC XR2. Do I sound like a stuck record or what? :D

But, basically what I am finding out, is that there is not a heck of a lot to doing it. I wish the advanced software was cheaper for the average guy to see what I am talking about.

There are 3 modes of operation for 4th axis:
Positional: this simply automates the indexing, so that you can then perform machining operations at that particular rotary position, with the indexer locked.

Live: using a 3d solid model and Solid Machining Technology, the OneCNC software can generate the commands to rotate the part automatically during a sole rotary axis command, or a compound linear/rotary command. The software creates the toolpath from the model's surface information.

Wrap: this is sometimes easier than using "Live". This would be because it is sometimes easier to lay out a flat map of the surface features of the part than it is to actually model it in 3d. In this mode, the software transforms any Y axis movement into the equivalent rotary axis command. This is suitable for drilling hole patterns (radially centered on the 4th axis), or for machining a flattened (or linear) surface model (like a large helical groove) that is easy to sketch out on the flat, and much more difficult to make a model of.

They claim it is the easist 4th axis to use, and while my experience with other software in 4th axis is nil, I can vouch for the fact that it is easy to pick up. Mind you, I've only been machining for 30 years, if you think that might have any bearing. :D Still, I'm a noob to using 4th axis software, so that says something.

Huflungdung, yes a 4th axes add on a verticle mill. and as far as what I want to do is to be able to do all forms of 4th. ax stuff. so i'm looking for a way to learn before I build my 4th. I'm on a learning quest. I've been machining on and off for about 25 years. I just have a craving to do it. I've been running cnc's for 8 years now but only 3 axe. and they still amaze me. So any good reads out there on this?

BTW, So I take it you really like one cnc. I've been looking at it. I did the on
line demo a couple of weeks ago. I think we are goin to get it at work as we are finally getting a cnc. Todd

I have been nicknamed as a 'cnc gearhead' which is an apt description for my enthusiasm for the whole combined retrofit, cnc and OneCNC scene. :)

If you've got the work for it, 4th axis is a good way to make some decent money. When the work is there, then the outlay of cash doesn't look so bad. I run my own shop and I have a small shop mentality about buying software: I like rapid payback :D It is difficult to imagine what the cost savings are when the cadcam software jives with the way you think.

I've probably only written a couple of hundred mill programs in the last three years or so, since I went with OneCNC. What I like about it is that I can sit down with it after a couple of weeks when I haven't done a new program for a while, and the know-how all comes back. This is because there are no hidden settings, they are all right there in front of you.

Similarly, when working with the 4th axis stuff, I think I read the help file on it once a few months ago, and that was it. Now, I just get in and try a few options in the toolpaths, maybe backup a time or two and start again until I see what I want happening on the screen.

Its great for us cnc gearhead types :)

Hu, It's a disease, it's about all i think about at home, at work, I can't stop it. HELP! Just kiddin about the best illness i think one could have. :banana: Todd