spline g-code output

[Andris Skulte]

Hey guys,

Some of you mentioned using spline output to get small surface finish g-code file sizes, and faster/smoother finishes than point to point arcs/lines. We just picked up a new machine w/ a recent Fanuc controller (I'll double check which one), and was curious about trying that.

 

1. Can someone post an example of what the code looks like, and how the machine interprets it?

 

2. Can mastercam do this natively?

 

3. Do I need to make/get a new post? I'm using a self modified MP Fanuc post currently on this machine.

 

Thanks everyone!

[bill_nwd]

The shortest, most flexible and most robust entity type for a Fanuc control is a 3 axis arc. If your control can machine NURBS splines, it can probably also machine 3-axis arcs. On the Fanuc control, this is denoted by a "G03.4" or a "G02.4". 3 Axis arcs are NOT the same as G03's or G02's. They are arcs defined by 3 points in space and therfore capable of machining with 3 axis moving simultaneously. If you have more questions about NURBs, 3-axis arcs, or 2-axis arcs, feel free to contact "Bill" at Northwood Designs. 315.287.2877

[Guest CNC Apps Guy 1]

I'll post a sample of NURBS code when I get home I've used NURBS and 3D Arcs. My preference is for NURBS because NURBS in HPCC Mode on Fanuc Controls you get 1ms BPT. With 3D Arcs, you only get 2ms BPT.

 

Mastercam cannot do this natively. You need Bill's nifty utility Metacut Pro - which I've used and whole heartedly endorse. MPFan ain't gonna get it done.

 

HTH

[Allan Brown]

+1 to Bill from Northwood Designs.

 

MetaCut Pro as a downstream app will convert your code to 3D Arcs or NURBS.

 

3D Arcs are simple to code, and most importantly easy intuitively understand (e.g. your operators), while achieving good results. No buzz word though...

[mcpgmr]

What about the Filter tool under NC Utils. It gives you the option to create Arc output in XY,XZ and YZ. You have to post the NCI instead of the operations but it looks like it works with the MPFAN post.