Mach3 shape file to ACAD

[vmax549]

We are creating a shape file with Mach3 that is basically 2.5D XYZ points that define the perimeter of an object and set its elevation.

What we end up with is 100s of short line segments that represents the shape. Is there a way to bring these point shapes into ACAD and automatically create long line segments and arcs from the points. That way the Gcode created from them would run faster and smoother.

Could ACAD then export the cleaned up version out to GCODE?

(;-) THanks TP

[neilw20]

Painful I know, but try leaning lisp!
It can do (almost) anything, if you can figure out how to coax it!.

[vmax549]

Hi Neil, I learned years ago before diving into an adventure to ask experts in the field IF it can be done before spending weeks trying to do something that can't be done.

Besides programming is one of the adventures I have NEVER been able to do.(;-) Been trying for 20 years and it hasn't happend yet.

(;-) TP

[turmite]

TP email me a segment of the file or the whole file if it isn't too large. Rhino has some good tools for doing things like you want. You have my email address.

Mike

[ger21]

How are you creating the shapes? Can you output it as g-code?

There's a lisps that can read g-code into AutoCAD and write g-code from AutoCAD here:
http://www.wjbzone.com/autocad/gcodein.zip
http://www.wjbzone.com/autocad/gcodeout.zip

And I wrote a macro that can export g-code.
http://home.comcast.net/~cncwoodwork.../AC2GCv039.zip

[vmax549]

Gerry, The point shape file comes out from Mach GCODE ready if you add a g1 to the top it will cut exactly like you probe it. The problem is all there is code wise is many short line segments. No long lines or arcs. We would like to be able to clean up the code to make it run smoother/faster and cut arcs instead of line segments for curves. It would also be nice to let acad set the layer based on the Z elevation. That way you could have a 3d object one slice at a time(;-) Just looking for a simple way to do 3d that the average newby can master. A tool to get them started working with 2d/3d objects.

X1.000 Y2.000 Z3.000 A0.000
X1.100 Y2.200 Z3.000 A0.000

We have a probing array that can probe the perimeter of a 3d object inside or outside one slice at time from top to bottom in a cutting order. Either xyz or axz with a rotary. Just looking for a good simple way of cleaning up the shape files.

Thanks GUYS , (;-) TP

[vmax549]

HI Mikey, just looking for a simple approach to the problem. Rhino is a high end solution. If the process can be prototyped in ACAD. Then perhaps we can find someone that can create an open source program to do it as well.

We are just looking to provide a simple FREE application that will allow newbies to TRY OUT 3d CNC to see if it is something that they will enjoy doing. Then IF they get hooked they can invest in a commercial package that suits them. IF it does not excite them no harm no fowl. THey would not have wasted money and would be more apt to continue in CNC in another form instead of throwing it all out the door as a giant money pit.(;-)

I enjoy 3d work as a 2.5d object in Isometric form. I live it, see it and dream it(;-)The wife on the other hand is a true 3d/organic nut. My part is easy to do as a free and simple process, her side is a bit more challanging to do free and easy.(;-) BUT we are working on that part.

Thanks (;-) TP

[turmite]

Terry Autocad is a lot more expensive than Rhino isn't it? I don't know since I don't own Acad, but I was under the impression that was the case.

Rhino is quite customizable with scripts and such, and there is a very inexpensive alternative to Rhino called MOI. The problem with MOI is there are no plugins for it yet and I have no idea how long that process will take.

If'n I can help, let me know.

Mike