How to generate Lathe GCode from a drawing?

[Robin2]

Thanks. I should have said that I'm looking for software that will run on Linux, not Windows or Mac.

...R

[m_c]

You'll be struggling to get something that runs on linux.
Lathe CAM doesn't have that many options, let alone ones that will run on linux.

I think CamBam has a linux option, although it's lathe capabilites are pretty limited (lathe only got added within the last couple releases).
The usual options are Lazyturn (it's free - there's a forum on the Machsupport forum) which is fairly limited and not being actively developed (it was written by Art but there wasn't really the demand for it), or Dolphin CADCAM, which is a lot more comprehensive but costs more.
I'm not sure how Bobcam compares.

[John S]

Thanks. I should have said that I'm looking for software that will run on Linux, not Windows or Mac.

...R

We are not making porridge for one

[Robin2]

We are not making porridge for one

I don't understand?

...R

[Robin2]

Looks like there is no alternative to DIY.

Over a couple of hours this afternoon I have put together a short JRuby program that will produce GCode from an array of Z,X values that represent the profile (or half cross-section) of the finished piece.

If anyone wants a copy of my code (which is very basic) let me know. (No charge ! )

...R

[Jonathan]

Looks like there is no alternative to DIY.

Over a couple of hours this afternoon I have put together a short JRuby program that will produce GCode from an array of Z,X values that represent the profile (or half cross-section) of the finished piece.

If anyone wants a copy of my code (which is very basic) let me know. (No charge ! )

...R

Have you included tool tip radius compensation? If not your code will only be accurate for moves parallel to X and Z, or with very sharp tools with no tip radius.

[birchy]

Maybe dxf2gcode? I'm going to be using LinuxCNC (cos I'm a Linux geek) and have briefly tried dxf2gcode. Seemed to work OK. Try searching the LinuxCNC wikis and forums as well, the members always seem to be willing to help and will probably suggest other programs.

[Robin2]

@Jonathan, thanks for the tip !

@birchy - thanks I will look at dfx2gcode

...R

[Robin Hewitt]

I don't understand? ...R

Old joke: A Scotsman goes to heaven and is asked if there is anything he would particularly like?

[Robin2]

Is that because he was only Scotsman in heaven?

Or had it something to do with one of my posts?

...R