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Patricchio's Prototypes - BobCAD
CNC (Computer Numerical Control) programs begin by importing drawing files
from drawing programs like AutoCAD or making the drawings themselves in BobCAD.
Tool paths are developed in BobCad's drawing module, and then converted to
M and G code in the CNC module. M and G code instructs a CNC machine its cut location,
cut feed rates, and cutting depths of per cutting pass.
BobCAD allows the user to instantly generate a cutting program with
hundreds to thousands of lines of code depending on the sophistication of drawing.
My current skittle pin program has 194 lines of code alone. This makes cutting
process extremely fast vs. the manual method.
BobCAD Versions 19 & 20 can make M and G code for just about any CNC system
including $150,000+ Haas machines.
CNC programs generally use very little memory so they can be saved on
floppy disks and be loaded into a CNC controller computer which does not need
the much processing power. In my case an old Pentium 1 laptop does the job.
BobCAD will give you a lot of value for its relatively low price, and their support
is very good. They wrote post processor programs for my FlashCut CNC programs the same day I
requested a post processor program which makes your M&G code come out in the exact form the cutting
controller program operates.
Click on the following link: BobCad CAM to see and
test their product.
I use the FlashCut controller program to drive my cutting system which I will
discuss in more detail in the Machined Parts page.
If you have any small projects we can discuss it further by calling (509) 448-8133 or
E-mailing me at patsprotos@gmail.com.