EdgeCAM is a suite of software allowing users to design parts and then simulate the manufacturing processes necessary to create them on a machine tool. The end-product of an EdgeCAM worksession is a generalised instruction list, like this one:
This list has to be translated into a CNC file format suitable for a particular make and type of CNC controller.
Code Generator files perform this translation function for EdgeCAM. They also provide extra commands that are seamlessly integrated into the EdgeCAM command structure. Although EdgeCAM provides standard Code Generator files, new Code Generators are usually written (using these as templates) to suit particular CNC controller and machine tool combinations.
The Code Generator Compiler is an integral part of the EdgeCAM suite of software. It creates a Code Generator or "Machine Tool" file (having an *.?cp extension) from a man-readable source text file (which must have an *.?xt extension).
For example,
The compiled Machine Tool File can then be selected within a EdgeCAM worksession to specify the format for the output CNC code (this is known as "selecting the Machine Tool" when entering EdgeCAM Manufacture mode). Any number of Machine Tool Files may be present on a EdgeCAM system to give maximum flexibility.
The man-readable file must contain all the appropriate parameters required to convert the raw EdgeCAM data into usable CNC code, and must be written specifically for a particular controller. In practice, an existing text file for a similar CNC controller would be edited to produce a customised parameter source file.
WARNING:
To avoid any possible damage to your machine tools and material, test EVERY Code Generator File THOROUGHLY before using it to cut material.
See Also