Re:CNC milling with open source software
by vespakoen on Friday January 18, 2019 @08:22PM
(#18944648)
I re-implemented (most of) TPLang (mentioned above) in pure JS , and called it openjscam [1]
And am working on open source software for CAM (as a hobby), just 2.5D gcode generators, using maker.js and openjscam [2].
And made opencamlib compile on Mac and Windows (and added basic Node.JS bindings) [3]
I am hoping more people will work on open source g-code generators so we have better alternatives to Fusion 360 / Solidworks for free
[1] http://github.com/makercam/openjscam [2] http://github.com/makercam [3] https://github.com/aewallin/opencamlib
The openhardware scene has advanced quite nicely in the last 5 years. There are many very nice projects out there to build from which are largely able to be built at home with parts which can be made locally and/or purchased online. Openbuilds is a good place to start if you are interested.
I always try to remind people...whether it is 3d printers, mills, lasers...the knowledge gain from building/breaking/rebuilding your machine far outweighs the small gain you get from simply operating one. I have never printed an object as interesting to me as it was to create and design an entire working machine from scratch.
If anyone is interested in openhardware projects I recommend checking out reprap.org , smoothieware.org , openbuilds.com as well as several other projects which I am sure you will stumble upon through research on those sites.
There are many opensource CAD/CAM software packages out there which allow you to pick and choose what you like. I personally use Fusion360 for most of my CAD/CAM stuff (I know...not Opensource) and for 3d printing my personal favorite is Slic3r.