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🟩 Core Essentials

src/Mod/CAM/Roadmap/Functionality/Output Generation.md

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🟩 Core Essentials

Features present or expected in a basic CAM package and necessary to perform the required tasks

FeatureDescriptionAssessment
G-code GenerationTranslate internal tool path to machine-specific G-code dialectDONE
Output CustomizationLine numbers, comments, units (G20/G21)DONE
Output review & editAfter the gcode is generated, the user should have the option to review it and edit before saving. They should have the option of editing in an external editor of their choiceOutput review is done. Only uses internal editor which is poor

🟨 Professional Grade

Features usually present or expected in the state-of-the-art applications

FeatureDescriptionAssessment
Preflight ChecksCatch and flag obvious problems before generating outputSanity check can catch some errors. Requires running the check manually.
Post-Processor CustomizationControl modal vs explicit axes, tool change blocks, headers/footersCustomization with flags in the Job output tab. Posts are inconsistent.
Advanced CustomizationAllow customization of output beyond the trivial. Allow customizing the post with an editing/customization toolRequires editing the python file.
Requires copying the post file to a specific location. Clunky and unintuitive
Subprogram SupportGenerate G-code with subprograms and subroutinesNONE
Setup Page GenerationInstructions, checklists, warnings, and errors for the operatorDONE
G-code DecompositionBreak arcs/canned cycles into linear segments or explicit movesNONE
Coordinate ConversionConvert absolute to relative (G91), center arcs to relative (G91.1)NONE
Coolant ControlCoolant control should be started at the most desirable point to avoid wasting coolant during a tool change or before it is actually needed.Current coolant control turns on when the TC is loaded. Inefficient
Advanced g-code generationIt should be possible to write postprocessors to generate any valid gcodeSome gcode features are not possible

🟦 Next-Level CAM

Features that would exceed industry standard

FeatureDescriptionAssessment
On-Machine InspectionGenerate code or triggers for probing/inspection routinesNone
Multi-File OutputSupport splitting G-code into multiple filesLImited
Tool Wear CompensationOutput tool wear adjustments via offsets or tablesNone
Feedback Loop IntegrationClosed-loop post processing using machine stateNone
Direct-to-Machine FabricationReimagine CAM → G-code → Machine as a seamless pipelineNone