My MPCNC (X=37", Y=25", Z=4") and needle cutter is built. I am now hoping for guidance so I can get "cutting"! Searched for days, but still needed your expertise - please.
1) Creating Gcode as I understand it: Import .jpeg into Inkscape to create .dxf -> Sketchup+SketchUcam = Gcode (Are there specific settings that make it for Marlin?)
My attempt at Inkscape .dxf creation from a .jpeg yielded a complex "multipath" .dxf containing far too many lines/node points which Sketchup could make little sense of. Is there a way to simplify the .dxf to just single line/node points that simply describe the original .jpeg outlines?
I found that it was simpler to just import the .jpeg into Sketchup and draw over the image. This new drawing is then used by SketchUcam to create Gcode, however, SketchUcam seemed unable to render a believable toolpath. I ended up exporting my Sketchup drawing as .dxf, then used Estlcam on this .dxf to manually select and create Marlin Gcode toolpaths.
Hoping for a strategy to render .pdf into Marlin Gcode as well.
2) Tool settings for the needlecutter.
What toolpath speed do you find works well? Any other pre-cut setup or settings info appreciated. My needle extends about 6 to 7mm beyond the end of the MIG welding tip guide. Z = 4". I can figure out the needle cutter speed easy enough.
3) Preparation for a cut.
How do you set the origin and the Z height in relation to the foamboard? Is there a simple way to confirm that you have the correct placement of the foam board so as to accurately predict where the cutting will take place? Are there other pre-cutting checks you regularly make such as confirming that the X and Y axis rails are in fact parallel to the frame rails? I always do a trial run and can print from Repetier or an SD card "headless". It seems that using Repetier allows you to set/change toolpath rates before running a cut job. Each axis of my MPCNC is equipped with "zero" end switches that are easily moved along the axis.
Perhaps there may be a Gcode routine that would send the tool out to each projected corner of the foam board? That may be a useful routine.
Would removing the paper from the $tree board make for more precise cutting? It can become a bit wonky with the paper off.
Still on the steep of the learning curve. My eyes are bleary from reading this terrific thread. Trouble is that I discover waaay too many other cool distractions (lasers!!) to investigate rather than staying only focused on extracting the info I originally was hunting for!