Recently i found a reason to stack files on top of each other to end up with a final g-code output in a single output file. each layer contained its own cut files and the final output g-code cut it's own code all stacked together . Some of you probably aready know how to do this .but it was a new experience for me ........
Here is an egg-zample Of what im doing The grid for the table top is made with 3 layers of code and the output files (g-code) all are stacked and created...cut independently Here are sample files . check out the cnc file . Its made in 3 layers
So are you saying you used layers instead of groups? I've never thought to do it this way as I always just use groups and reorder them how I want them cut.
Bruce, did you manually combine the files into one or was it generated by SketchUcam? If it was generated by SketchUcam I'm not sure how you did it.
@ Shawn , Im sorry ..... Yes there groups. But when one group is stacked onto another there kinda like layers . sorta like a layer cake @ Yoram . I uploaded the skp file for you to look at too ....... the cnc was created with sketchucam . not by me manually manipulating the codes I did not know you could stack layers of groups together until last night......... I got all giddy when i discovered this . I smiled all night
That's a great discovery, Bruce, it will make it easier for many people. Now I will not have to make a drill file and a cut file. Excellent, my man, excellent!
I have to be honest I have been doing this for a while mainly on pockets that need to extend out side the parameters I thought this was a known and I apologize for not letting others know sooner. It can make for some complex and great milling operations! Thanks for bringing it to the open Bruce
Hummm ? I wonder if i could put a tool change routine between them? so I could change sharpie markers mab'y
Bruce if you give your groups names in the 'entity info' box you will see the names in the Gcode. This can greatly assist in figuring out what went wrong (-: and will also assist in inserting tool changes since you can name your sharpy group and search for the name.
Oh my gosh swarfer ! I did what you said and it worked Here is the same cnc file with 2 tool changes . Thank you soooo much ! I understand its not 100% correct but it worked non the less
OMG, I totally have to try it out. It will make things way easier. Can't believe I didn't know about it before. BTW, Bruce, I normally make the holes first and then make the cuts. Gut feeling tells me it may be better, but who knows, right?
If anyone wants to run this file under mach3 to see the tool changes , dont forget to tic off ignore too change settings under the settings tab Ps: dont run this code with your machine because it might cause a big bang, crash and burn !
I don't understand how you did that Bruce. The term groups leaves me confused. After looking at your .NC file in OPENSCAM im seeing 3 different runs in one file but I'm not understanding how you did it.