New Roughing Progress
I have the roughing simulation code working pretty well and tested to the degree that I can so far. I’ve updated the display code to let the color of the toolpath vary depending on the feedrate so the new data can be visualized. Now I just have to redo the roughing code to take advantage of all of this.
Just to set expectations early, this is not going to be a complete 3D simulation of the machining process so no attempt is made to find the “optimal feedrate”. This new code is an attempt at solving 80% of the roughing feedrate problem with the least computing time and memory required. Once I get it running we’ll have some idea how good it will be.
Based on all of your feedback I’ve made the last release an “official release” available on the main download page. Thanks for all the help getting to this point.
Comments
8 Responses to “New Roughing Progress”
Robert,
Any plans for a variable feed rate based on tool load for finishing? I usually don’t bust roughing bits, but it is a different story for little finishing bits
I don’t need to see a coloured visualization on screen, just the faith that MC is at least making an attempt at slowing full cuts. No doubt the new roughing will help but not in areas too small to fit the roughing bit
Jeff
That hadn’t really occurred to me. My finishing paths all assume that anything remaining can be cut at the full feedrate.
I think this might be a better case for a semi-finish or reroughing toolpath. Maybe V4? We’ll see how the new roughing works and go from there.
-Robert
Yes, semi-finishing! Leaves constant chip load for the cutter, and constant speed when finishing. (OK, OK, I’ll stop harping on it because I can do it myself…)
But Jeff, you must have the situation where your finishing cutter is enough smaller than your rougher that it picks up a lot of fine detail that the rougher bridges over. I can see how the variable speed rate will help you on finishing.
As long as I can toggle it off! (what’s the code for evil grin emoticon?)
Randy
Randy,
Dead right, I usually rough with a 1.6mm ball end and finish with a 18° taper with a .2mm tip. Usually wax or plastic but I still manage to bust tools.
The difference in my tool sizes has caused Robert problems in the past (he fixed quickly), but usually works well for my work style.
Jeff
Randy,
(code for evil grin emoticon goes here) You probably don’t need an ‘OFF’ button for automatic finish feed reduction. Never come close and it shouldn’t happen, cross the line and it would be a really nice feature even if just for one line.
Jeff
Jeff,
You’re right, of course. But a latching “warp speed” toggle switch would still be a nice touch…
Randy
Just kidding, just kidding of course! I’m the last one who needs his mill pegged at full feed rate… :p An intelligent feedrate will be just fine, Robert.
Randy
Randy,
I tend to cut wax and plastic. Most at G0 feed rates. I never even claimed to be sane
Jeff