I just released v1.15a of my PixelCNC program for streamlining the process of getting from a raster image design to G-code. It can generate a variety of toolpaths - some of which are unique and can’t be found in any other CAM software out there. Their purpose is to exploit the nature of the toolpath’s marks left from a tool’s shape profile to add an artistic stylized texture or pattern. Instead of a toolpath being exclusively a means to an end now the toolpath itself can be a piece of the artwork. There’s also the usual parallel/horizontal/v-carving toolpaths one can expect from a CAM program for more conventional CNCing purposes.
In a nutshell PixelCNC is a CAM program for artists who want something that gives them all the power and control they need, without the complexity (and price tag) of professional CAM software packages. There are also free programs out there for ‘converting’ an image to G-code, but they are extremely limited in features and capability and usually run very slow. PixelCNC is highly optimized, provides a nice looking 3D preview and minimalist interface, and features (the beginnings of) a simulation system for previewing the cuts that generated toolpaths will produce, so that you don’t have to ‘cut blind’ just to discover what your toolpaths will actually look like when run, which is something I loathed about the free software out there that just spits out G-code, or maybe only renders the toolpath as naked lines that poorly convey what the CNC will actually produce.
The latest version has a bunch of fixes and improvements and now supports SVG images as well, which was a feature suggested by a user. More features are on their way for v1.20a, which I’m aiming to have out in May. I’m also working on some video demonstrations and a set of tutorials for accomplishing different things with PixelCNC.
Thanks!
