Creating an NC program from a DXF or similar 2

[Milkboy]

Hey All

Im looking a piece of software will out put a 'G and M' NC Code where the input it a dxf or similar (similar to ProCut seen on

http://www.espritautomation.com/procut.asp)

I have a gas profiling cutting machine that cuts profiles on the ends of Fork Lift Truck Forks so the programs and profiles are very simple
i.e. cuts one at a time. No need for nesting etc

All the progs I have seen so far are very expensive
and have more features than for what I need
I hoping there is shareware/freeware/demo of a simpler option but any recommendations are appreciated

TIA

-
Milkboy

 

[JayMaechtlen]

hmmm-
I wonder if any of the cheaper sign cutting programs would make something like G-code.
Otherwise- do you suppose that HPGL could be massaged?
worth trying...
regards
jay

Jay Maechtlen

 

[SERVOCAM]

Maybe try this one:

http://www.topshareware.com/AdvaNum-Programming-Center-Professional-Edition-download-8484.htm

Cameron Anderson - Sales & Applications Engineer
Aerotech, Inc. -

http://www.aerotech.com

"Dedicated to the Science of Motion"

 

[jbel]

If the profiles are as simple as you say, why not just write the g-code by hand? I'm sure you could pick up a CNC programming manual for your machine if you don't already have one and have at it. With only time and well under $100 invested you could easily solve this problem. There are several textbook publishers that have books on this subject that cover more general cases of CNC programming and that may be the best place to start. A search at

http://www.amazon.com

should return several good leads.
Or, ask around, your local community college engineering technology department should have several students that can write G and M code easily. You would be suprised at how easy the language really is. With only minimal exposure you could be writing simple programs in a day or two.

 

[eriep]

If you want inexepensive and good, try mach 2 from artsoft

http://www.artofcnc.ca

it is designed as an inexpensive step and direction controller, but will import DXF or HPGL and save the resultant G-Code, the trial version is good for up to about 1000 lines of code, registration is $150.00


erie

 

[revdode]

I haven't used in in anger but Camexpert looks like it may work.

http://www.ribbonsoft.com/camexpert.html

You can download a time limited trial and the purchase price is reasonable. While you are there Qcad is also worth a look as a basic but usable cross platform 2D CAD package.