4th

[tsutt]

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

[HuFlungDung]

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?

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. Still, I'm a noob to using 4th axis software, so that says something.

[tsutt]

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

[HuFlungDung]

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 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

[tsutt]

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. Todd