Macros substantially accelerate CNC programming

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VBA macros that ask questions and produce code

The VBA macros are said to work essentially the same as the macros produced with the previous software. The macro asks the CNC programmers questions about the part and the tooling that will be used to produce it, and builds the program based on their answers. The macro produces not only the finished G-code program but also a tool list and a tool setup diagram that shows the zero point for the tooling on the part. With the aid of a macro, a CNC programmer can create a CNC program for a new part in a matter of minutes compared to the hours required using traditional methods.

The next step is simulating the program in Esprit to verify the geometry of the finished part and the integrity of the machining operation. Esprit first generates the toolpaths and G-code needed to machine the part. It then simulates the machining operation while the programmer views each cutting tool being loaded and taking its assigned cuts along with the entire machining environment in dynamic 3D solids. In some cases, the programmer may see that the final geometry does not exactly match the design intent, so he can go back to the initial part geometry, make a small change and update the program. In other cases, he might see an opportunity to reduce machining time by moving a feature to a different tool. “Esprit macros improved the process of creating CNC programs for machining forming press components,” Avila concludes.

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CAD/CAM

Macros substantially accelerate CNC programming

VBA macros that ask questions and produce code