PDFThis document describes the setup of the machine, some of its dimensional limits, use of the Roland SRP Player software (for generating toolpaths from STL files), and some aspects of the process whereby an .RML file from MasterCAM is used. Harvard GSD Guide to Roland MDX-40-A.pdf Edit Review the NC FileThere are two post-processors that you can select in MasterCAM to output an NC file for the Roland Mill, depending on which you choose, there are different steps involved. | Info |
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| title | Recommended: Fanuc Machine Definition and Post Processor |
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| The files that are most up-to-date can be found on Goliath:\Software\Mastercam\Folder_Migrate_MCX_X9\* and are also saved on the computer connected to the Roland Mill. The |
.RML file that is generated by MasterCAM needs to be edited before it can be run on the RolandFanuc 3 Axis Mill Machine Definition, Control, and Post Processor will output an .NC file. This .NC file should be reviewed for errors and needed corrections before it is run on the Roland Mill. Do this within MasterCAM's code editor. - Check for the correct Spindle Speed and Feedrate for the tool.
- Check for Z0 and Z-, to prevent cutting into the machine table.
- Return to MasterCAM and make corrections there, if either of the above conditions need to be corrected.
Things to note: - In the VPanel, users must set the 0,0,0 of the "G54" coordinate system before cutting the RML file.
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- The NC file does contain the spindle speed as defined in MasterCAM for the tool/toolpath.
- Coordinates are displayed in inches.
- Drilling operations are supported.
- Toolchanges are not supported by the Roland MDX-40A. MCX files that use multiple tools must output the toolpaths for different tools separately and re-calibrate a new Z for each toolchange.
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| title | Not Recommended: Roland Machine Definition and Post Processor |
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| The files that are most up-to-date can be found on Goliath:\Software\Mastercam\Folder_Migrate_MCX_X9\* and are also saved on the computer connected to the Roland Mill. The Roland Machine Definition and Post Processor will output an .RML file. Although not as easy to "read" as other types of NC files, the .RML file should be reviewed for needed corrections before it is run on the Roland Mill. Do this within MasterCAM's code editor or a text editor of your choosing. |
Replace:- Ensure that the first line of the file
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, , with MC - 1", otherwise the spindle will not start.
- Ensure that the the last line of the file
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, with MC Save the file - in order to stop the spindle
- (There may be a line at the start and end of the file that read "H", this is OK, as it tells the machine to rapid to its home position.
- Ensure that any edited file is saved with an extension of .RML (some text editors will save it with a .NC or a .TXT, which might have to be removed)
Things to note | Alternatively, replace the ROLAND MDX40 3 AXIS MILL INCH.PST file that is saved to C:\Users\Public\Documents\shared mcamx9\mill\Posts with the one that can be found on goliath: Z:\Software\Mastercam\Folder_Migrate_MCX_X9\put_contents_in_shared Mcamx9-mill-Posts: - In the VPanel, users must set the 0,0,0 of the "User Coordinate System" before cutting the RML file.
- The RML does NOT contain spindle speeds, so this must be controlled by setting it in the VPanel interface.
- Coordinates are displayed in 1/100 mm regardless of MCX file units.
- Toolchanges are not supported by the Roland MDX-40A. MCX files that use multiple tools must output the toolpaths for different tools separately and re-calibrate a new Z for each toolchange.
- Drilling Operations are NOT supported by the Roland Machine Definition and Post Processor. Units for these toolpath types are output as inches, rather than 1/100 mm, so do not cut correctly.
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Template FileBelow is an empty MasterCAM template file with a few toolpaths included within it (Rough Parallel, a few Finish Parallel options, and a 2D Contour toolpath). The settings assume that 2" foam material is being used, so changes would be necessary for other material characteristics. Only one tool is defined, so if using a different tool, a new tool will have to be defined. It is necessary that toolpaths using different tools be posted separately so that each tool can be have a new Z calibrated on the machine between toolpaths. Roland Template File | Note |
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Presently (Fall 2016), the post for MasterCAM does not write out DRILL toolpaths correctly for the Roland Mill, so do not use these types of toolpaths. Contours and Surface-based toolpaths seem to be fine. Sales representative for MasterCAM has been contacted regarding the issue, but no solution was provided. For Drill toolpaths, the units are written in inches instead of being converted to millimeters (X,Y, and Z coordinates of drill points).
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