I would like to batch out some catch all trays for a Vet’s charity event - I will need between 20 & 25. I’ve looked at what I could find on the topic here and the threads I find are discussing the buidbotics (sp??) controller or generating the G-Code, and copying for each position on the table the new preset on the Masso G54 - 9 coordinates I think it was and then running that G-Code.
Can someone explain a couple steps please or point me to a video / thread / discussion with examples that specifically demonstrate step by step using the Masso controller.
I have 3 or 4 bit changes for these catch all trays, there is a flag carved at the bottom - this is for a Veterans event in April - I’d love to be able to get all the bowl carving done in 1 pass, then the EM’s and finally the v-carves…
Depending on your software and it’s post processor, it (might) be easier to just copy your entire program, then change all the g54s to g55s, save as “part 2”, and repeat.
Ideally, to minimize tool changes, you would run tool#1 on all your parts…change to tool#2, and so-on. But we don’t know which software you’re using.
I’m running Vcarve pro - what you describe is what I want to do - run tool #1 on all parts, tool #2, etc
But it seems there should be a easier way besides editing the G-Code - I used to do software development and anytime you mess with code, there are risks. I’d rather let the O/S (Masso) deal with it if possible. If not - I’ll just be super careful and take a couple backups
Sorry, I don’t know anything about how Vcarve handles multiple offsets.
Sometimes, if I have multiple small parts, I just copy/paste the vectors/reliefs in the software and space my rough stock accordingly on the table. My software is a p.i.t.a. when putting multiple offsets all in one program. Sometimes it’s just faster and easier.
I salute you for trying to learn a new method.
You might be better to do the entire project in G54, and use a linear pattern instead of different work offsets.
You’ll have a single XYZ0 position for all units, but the program will run each one side by side in a grid pattern. To me, that is the most professional way to program a repeat part like that. it’s also easier to nest them as close together as possible. I assume V-Carve has that functionality built in.
I would save the work offsets for situations where the programs at each WCS are different. Like an OP2 hole on the backside of the part or something. Or when you are using two different vices or something.
Either way you are bound to level up your programming knowledge!
I do use different coordinate systems, and I have to say that it would be quite complicated. You would have to zero x, y, and z in all coordinate systems.
Also Vcarve does not allow to chose the coordinate system, you would have to insert the code manually, which seems tricky and prone to error.
Instead I create surfaces and Vectors in my CAD software (Rhinoceros 3D).
It is very easy to select vectors and surfaces, copy and past them to a slightly offset location. Copy once to have 2 objects, copy paste again for four, three for 8 and so on.
Export the surfaces as stl files and the vectors as dxf and import them into VCarve. In VCarve you can them select (and group if you want) the vectors and use them as a boundary for your toolpath. That way you can easily slect the number of pieces you want to cut.
I understand the reluctance to do some manual editing, but I would encourage people to dabble with it. Inserting sub-programs, coordinates, temporary work offsets, etc. Just because you might make a mistake doesn’t mean it should be avoided. With the flick of one finger, I can veer my car off the highway and wipe out 15 people. But I don’t need a way to prevent myself from making that mistake. I think you’re really missing out on some very useful methods if you refuse to explore manual editing.
I could take an nc text file with 3 tools in it, and manually edit it to run as many repeats as you want and it would take me about 90 seconds. It’s not anymore complicated than learning about a half dozen words in your non-native language.
There is no right way of doing this. but there ARE several ways. And the more ways you know how to do something, the more tricks you have in your bag, and I think that has much more value than the risk of making a typo. That way of thinking doesn’t apply to anything else in your life. Your tax preparer, your bank, your pharmacist, etc.
There’s water in the well. Don’t let it go dry just because you might drop your iphone in it.
