API for real-time control during machining process

[eastonhy]

Hello there. I am keen to explore the feasibility of dynamically controlling machining parameters—such as spindle speed, depth of cut, and more—using a programming language like Python or C during the machining process. By this way, I can monitor the machining quality and improve it by adjust the parameters during the machining process in real-time.

While I understand that many CNC machines allow manual parameter adjustments via controller boards, I am particularly interested in achieving this level of control programmatically through python or C scripting.

If there are existing APIs that facilitate such integration, I would greatly appreciate any recommendations. Additionally, I am curious about the possibility of developing a custom API for this purpose if none currently exist. I would be grateful for any insights, suggestions, or guidance on how to approach this. Thank you in advance!

[ASPeters]

Hello there. I am keen to explore the feasibility of dynamically controlling machining parameters—such as spindle speed, depth of cut, and more—using a programming language like Python or C during the machining process. By this way, I can monitor the machining quality and improve it by adjust the parameters during the machining process in real-time.

While I understand that many CNC machines allow manual parameter adjustments via controller boards, I am particularly interested in achieving this level of control programmatically through python or C scripting.

If there are existing APIs that facilitate such integration, I would greatly appreciate any recommendations. Additionally, I am curious about the possibility of developing a custom API for this purpose if none currently exist. I would be grateful for any insights, suggestions, or guidance on how to approach this. Thank you in advance!

The Centroid API (CentroidAPI.dll in your install directory) only supports .NET applications (C# or Visual Basic).
One user has gone through the trouble of making a python version of this api here: https://github.com/fca1/cnc_centroid_skinning
To my knowledge, no one has made a C/C++ version.

API documentation can be found here: https://www.centroidcnc.com/cnc_app_api.html

Adjusting some parameters mid-job is possible though for safety reasons, a lot of calls only work when the machine is idle. I believe items like depth of cut and spindle speed can only be altered in the g-code job.