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Question on tool Paths
I have a project in mind that will require a large number if regular pencils to be engraved. I am stuck when it comes to how to handle the tool path(s). I thought I would set up a jig to hold the pencils but what would be the best way to have the process stop after each pencil is finished so a new one can be put in the jig. Can it even be done without a separate toolpath for each pencil? I thought maybe somehow telling the toolpath that a tool change was needed after each pencil was engraved or some other way to have it stop? Wanted to have a list of 20-25 names in the same toolpath. Any help would be appreciated.
I had another thought - If I created a separate toolpath for each line of type in the list I know I could combine them but would the machine pause after each line finished engraving? That is my goal - have the cnc pause after each line of type.
Comments
3 options...
1) Create a toolpath for each pencil using toolpath template(s).
2) Hand edit GCode with pause keyword/statement/routine for your controller for each line (really not hard - copy/paste same code 25 times is nothing).
3) Use plate production and CSV list; modify/create new post processor to insert a pause after each engraved line.
There's a Post Processor Configuration Guide around somewhere...here's one from ArtCAM/Delcam/Autodesk that you can use: Post Processor Configuration Guide
Pencils, take a 1/4 inch ball end run a profile toolpath in some mdf with a single line, long enough for the pencils to fit in, spaced about 1/2 inch, deep enough to clamp those little babies down (you could do this with an end mill flat tip but ball would be my choice) 25 times or however many you need, you can clamp these things down with a chunk of wood and 10 screws or so.
Now I'll leave the rest for you to dream up.
mike
Great idea Mike.
Mike if I use my laser would I still need the clamp?
I don't own a laser, but I would imagine you would not because there would be no friction caused by an end mill. I am coming from what I use in my shop I would run a ball end for indexing and placement then clamp those babies down then run the other toolpath to v-grove them, very fast placements and zipping, but you have a different setup, caused by different tooling.
mike
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