A library for generating HSM tool paths for CNC pocket milling.
TLDR
This project generates HSM (High Speed Machining) style CNC tool paths which minimise abrupt changes in tool engagement.
It is intended to be used as a library in a CAM package.
It is NOT intended to be used to directly generate gcode.
See the "Projects using this library" section for CAM projects using this library to generate gcode.
The problem
When CNC milling pockets, calculating a tool path that minimises endmill engagement and abrupt changes in engagement is challenging. There are few choices available to hobbyists and even less open source options.
Contour milling is the standard way of milling pockets where successive cuts run parallel to each other leading to high endmill engagement in tight corners and abrupt changes in endmill engagement.
This project generates a tool path which consists of a series of arcs. Each arc is centered on a point equidistant to two or more pockets edges and with an arc radius set so the pocket edge is a tangent to the arc. This leads to gradual increases in tool engagement, greatly decreasing the change of endmill damage.
How to use this library
See demo.py file.
Projects using this library
- DerpCAM A 2.5D CAM aimed at hobby CNC machine users.