prototype maual+CNC at the same time

[fido]

I have an idea for prototype.

It will have a rotary stepper dirven axis and a manually moved horizontal axis.

I need the rotary axis to move at a given ratio directly related to the horizontal axis.

As the horizontal axis moves away from the rotary it turns directly proportional to the distance the horizontal moves. Basically cutting helical flute.

Can one use Mach 3 to accomplish this?

I am thinking using a mouse wheel type positioner on the horizontal axis inputting that position into Mach. Mach can then output a signal to the stepper. This would need to be repeatable.

Would it take a bunch of programming ?

Thanks for any help.

Stephen

[ronateah]

yes it could be done and yes there would be some programming / configuration time. you could also do this with simple standalone stepper or servo drive either way not a slam dunk interms of time.

[ktb100]

The new release of Mach uses macro variables that would literally make cutting a flue or a helical gear a slam dunk and only use no more than 20 lines of code.

Kirk