Using Algebra Functions in CNC Woodworking

A discussion of how algebraic functions can be useful in CNC work, along with some specific mathematical code expressions. June 17, 2009

Question
I seem to remember a while back somebody had posted a list of algebraic functions that were usable by Busellato's Genesis software. Does anyone have a complete list of allowable operators that can be used?

Forum Responses
(CNC Forum)
From contributor L:
Here’s some information I found from a discussion I read a while back that may help.

“In our Genesis manual it explains about several trigometric functions that are available for usage, but I discovered that there were more functions than were documented. Is there a complete list of all the functions available? Two that I cannot find in the manual but are very useful are the integer and absolute functions. Here is what I've found so far.”

Documented:
Sin ( ) or s( ) sine
asin( ) or as( ) arcsin
cos( ) or c( ) cosine
acos( ) or ac( ) arcosine
tan( ) or t( ) tangent


atan( ) or at( ) arctangent
sqrt( ) square root

Undocumented:
int( ) or i( ) integer value
abs( ) absolute value
q( ) square root (same as sqrt( ))
p( ) power or squared
pi value of pi (3.142)

Undocumented (unknown what there results are for) :
f( )
v( )
sr( )
cr( )
tr( )
x( )
y( )
z( )

“I know that myself or most people will never use some or any of these, but it would have been nice of them to include everything available for our use - who knows how it may impact an individual’s usage.”

“Can anybody add to this list or clarify the unknowns?”

Response: “your list is nearly complete. Below are a few more.”

v( ) returns the inverse of an argument as 1/X
sr( ) returns the sine of an argument in radians
cr( ) returns the cosine of an argument in radians
tr( ) returns the tangent of an argument in radians


From contributor D:
Would you like to share how your using algebraic functions in the custom woodworking business?

I know that complex motions are better defined by sin(x), cos(x), tan(x), 1/x, abs(x), arcsin(x), e^(x)Cos(2x)/2, ect., but does the average CNC programmer actually see these functions in his/her work? ACAD has arc functions that are B-Spline in nature, very different, although scaleable just as the aforementioned are scaleable.


From contributor H:
I'm a bit baffled here too. I draw in Autocad and apply tool paths with CAM software. I would never try to set up tool paths mathematically. I know programs like Cadcode to this type of thing so you can speed up the process of cutting similar parts of different sizes. Is that what you are doing, or are you developing G-code from geometrical requirements?

I had some arc wizards written for me that allow us to input radius, chord length etc. type of information and G-code is automatically created for cutting our curved blanks. Are you creating programs/wizards such as that?


From contributor L:

Genesis has the ability to use these algebraic functions in parametric programming. An equation is written in the variables to compute direction of a cut, start point, or end point. I use "sqrt" to compute the hypotenuse of a triangle, and "atan" to compute trajectory of a cut in parametric programs that I run.

From contributor D:
“Atan” will compute theta - rise over run.

From contributor M:
I am unsure if the debate or question is "how" or "why"? There are instances where parametrically programming with controls equipped for it, is dramatically more efficient than the Cad to Cam to machine process. In fact the redrawing and reposting of code steps can be omitted all together. It is a very application-specific process. It works best when your process can be standardized to a point that, for instance, field measurements can be entered into variables directly in a CNC program and all geometric properties, points of tangency and discreet attributes or features are recalculated on the spot, within the control. The trigonometric/algebraic functions are used to insure all proportional relationships are maintained. This is very application and business orientation specific.

However I have helped customers with parametrics in the following examples;
Valances
Fluted components
Rafter Tails
Doors
Archways
Cabinet Components
Panel Components
Countertops

This just names a few. I hope this doesn't make this topic more "murky".


From contributor D:
If anything you have helped clarify where we can start using algebraic functions in the woodwork industry - this is great news.

From contributor J:
"There are instances where parametrically programming with controls equipped for it, is dramatically more efficient than the Cad to Cam to machine process. In fact the redrawing and reposting of code steps can be omitted all together."

Contributor M is correct. This is a good reason to understand G-code, and why I have debated for it here in the past. However, you should also have an understanding of basic programming skills and some creativity. That being said, I've seen so many poor CAD drawings created by people who didn't understand drafting, but knew the basics of how to draw a line with a CAD program. So, don't let a lack of knowledge prevent you from attempting it.


From contributor C:
I have written a number of parametric programs that use geometric formulae. Works for me, and the results are flexible programs that make products that others cannot duplicate.

From the original questioner:

Contributor L you nailed it twice. Your first response is exactly what I was looking for. Your second response is exactly what I was going to say to contributor D. Yes I plan to use the info for parametric programs. Why should I have to draw then program similar parts with subtle size changes, when I can have one program that my operator can simply insert a variable or two in a matter of a few seconds and then be ready to run? In addition I also use “if” statements along with simple variables for many other existing parametric programs.

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