Lunchlines.py

Overview

Lunchlines.py is a script that will take a DXF (and eventually other vector formats) and convert it into a printable .gcode file for your Frostruder MK2. It has some optional configurations to set speed, line widths, etc.

See the Frostruder MK2 usage page for information on where to download lunchlines.py and the rest of the tool 'suite'.

Step 1: Create your DXF File

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There are many programs that generate DXF files, but we recommend using QCAD. When you are designing your file, keep in mind that the printer will attempt to print out exactly what you have drawn. Furthermore, we will interpret all units as millimeters, and will use the actual coordinates you use.

If you make your drawings centered on (0,0), make sure you center the extruder head on (0,0). If you make your drawings in the positive quadrant, make sure you position the extruder head in the lower left hand quadrant. As a sanity check, always open the DXF in a program like QCAD before printing.

Finally, we have implemented most of the DXF spec, but there are a few stragglers where support is not complete. We have not implemented ellipses, blocks, text, and a few other advanced/obscure features. To be safe, make sure you have converted all your files to simple lines and curves (in qcad, select all and type 'xp' for explode.)

As of ReplicatorG 0014, arcs, circles, and exploded ellipses (including curves in exploded text) will bog down the execution of the GCode and result in thicker lines than expected. This is a known bug and a fix is expected in ReplicatorG 0015.

Step 2: Create your GCode

Creating your GCode is pretty easy. Since DXF is a vector format, you really only need to specify your feedrate, and possibly a few optional paramters like stop distance and start delay. Here are a few examples:

#get a list of options and help
python lunchlines.py --help

#generate gcode with standard settings
python lunchlines.py test.dxf > test.gcode

#generate gcode with a feedrate
python lunchlines.py --xy-feedrate=1234 test.dxf > test.gcode

#generate gcode with a bunch of settings
python lunchlines.py --xy-feedrate=1000 --start-delay=50 --stop-delay=146 --line-width=1.0 --stop-distance=2.0 test.dxf > test.gcode

Step 3: Run your GCode

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  1. Startup ReplicatorG (0015 or later) and make sure your Frostruder entry is selected
  2. Open your newly created GCode
  3. Position your Frostruder tip just above your build surface in the Z axis (see Frostruder Materials for ideas)
  4. Position your Frostruder tip in the proper XY place according to your drawing.
  5. For a test-run, disconnect the air pressure. For a real-run connect the air pressure
  6. Click 'Build' and watch the magic of Frostrusion.
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