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## What I do - Generate CNC machine toolpaths from CAD models - Select appropriate machining strategies and tools - Optimize cutting parameters for efficiency and quality - Simulate machining operations to detect collisions - Post-process toolpaths to machine-specific formats ## When to use me - When programming CNC machines (mills, lathes, routers) - When selecting cutting tools and parameters - When simulating machining operations offline - When optimizing manufacturing workflows - When generating G-code for CNC machines ## Key Concepts ### CNC Programming Basics ```python # G-code fundamentals class GCodeGenerator: # Rapid move (positioning) def rapid(self, x=None, y=None, z=None): coords = self._format_coords(x, y, z) return f"G0 {coords}" # Linear feed (cutting move) def linear_feed(self, x=None, y=None, z=None, feed=100): coords = self._format_coords(x, y, z) return f"G1 {coords} F{feed}" # Circular interpolation (clockwise) def clockwise_arc(self, x, y, i, j, feed=100): return f"G2 X{x} Y{y} I{i} J{j} F{feed}" # Circular interpolation (counter-clockwise) def counterclockwise_arc(self, x, y, i, j, feed=100): return f"G3 X{x} Y{y} I{i} J{j} F{feed}" # Tool change def tool_change(self, tool_number): return f"M6 T{tool_number}" # Spindle control def spindle_on(self, rpm, clockwise=True): direction = "M3" if clockwise else "M4" return f"{direction} S{rpm}" def spindle_off(self): return "M5" ``` ### Machining Operations | Operation | Description | Applications | |-----------|-------------|--------------| | Facing | Flat surface on top | Stock removal | | Roughing | Bulk material removal | Near-net shape | | Finishing | Final surface quality | Precision surfaces | | Pocket milling | Internal cavities | Molds, pockets | | Profile milling | Contour following | Complex shapes | | Drilling | Hole creation | Fasteners, passes | | Tapping | Thread creation | Threaded holes | | Turning | Rotational cutting | Cylindrical parts | ### Tool Selection ```python # Cutting parameters calculation class CuttingParameters: @staticmethod def calculate_sfm(diameter, rpm): """Surface feet per minute""" return 3.14159 * diameter * rpm / 12 @staticmethod def calculate_rpm(sfm, diameter): """Revolutions per minute""" return (sfm * 12) / (3.14159 * diameter) @staticmethod def calculate_feed_rate(rpm, chip_load, num_flutes): """IPM = RPM × chip load × number of flutes""" return rpm * chip_load * num_flutes @staticmethod def calculate_mrr(depth, width, feed_rate): """Material removal rate (cubic inches/min)""" return depth * width * feed_rate ``` ### Post-Processing ```python # Post-processor configuration POST_PROCESSOR_CONFIG = { "controller": "Fanuc", "output_format": "NC file", "settings": { "line_numbers": True, "decimal_places": 3, "modal": True, "tool_change": "M6", "coolant": { "on": "M8", "off": "M9" } } } ``` ### CAM Software | Software | Specialty | |----------|-----------| | MasterCAM | General purpose CNC | | Fusion 360 | Cloud-based CAM | | SolidCAM | Integrated with SolidWorks | | Delcam | Complex geometries | | GibbsCAM | Multi-axis machining | | HSMWorks | High-speed machining |