Dmap2gcode generates g-code to cut depth
based on a gray scale image darkness or lightness

Background
Features
Download
Documentation
Sample Output
Related Links

Background

Dmap2gcode is a depth map image cutting program written in python. This program is based on image-to-gcode depth map milling program that is integral to LinuxCNC. The name dmap2gcode is an abbreviated description of the function of the program (Converts depth maps to G-Code). A depth map is a grey scale image where the darkness or lightness of each pixel corresponds to the depth (or height) of the object at each point. Dmap2gcode is a free open source program released under the GNU General Public License (GPL) Version 3. Most of the core functions are unchanged from the predecessor program (image-to-gcode). The changes in dmap2gcode include a new graphic user interface (based on F-Engrave) decoupling the code from the LinuxCNC distribution and some additional options have been added. Decoupling dmap2gcode from the LinuxCNC distribution will now allow windows and Mach3 users easy access to the program capabilities.

dmap2gcode Features

- Generates g-code based on image input and user settings
- Option to disable cutting of the top surface. (allows stock top surface to remain)
- Option to offset the step over (allows cutting between previously cut scan lines)
- Option for vertical or arc plunge start
- Text input for v-bit angle (if v-bit is selected)
- Complete set of roughing configuration options
- Origin selection allows user to select the location of g-code zero position
- Use inches or mm as export units
- Customizable g-code preamble and postamble
- Opens previously saved g-code file and retrieve the settings
- Roughing g-code is saved to separate file to allow tool change between roughing and finish cut.
- Imports a variety of image files (including jpg, gif, png, pgm)

Changes in Version 0.01

- Initial Release

Download:

(Right click on the link and select "Save target as" or "Save link as")

Source files (zip file)	Windows Executable Files (zip file)	Python File Only (.py - text file)
dmap2gcode-0.01_src.zip	dmap2gcode-0.01_win.zip	dmap2gcode-001.py

Documentation

I have started the manual page for dmap2gcode here: dmap2gcode manual

Sample Output

The g-code for this lake map was produced by dmap2gcode. The text g-code was produced in F-Engrave. The map was carved into plywood. The glue, which is red for this plywood, forms contour lines between each plys. Too bad the plywood glue is not blue.

Green Lake Picture

Some more lake maps that have been carved. The map in the upper right is carved into a hand laid up plywood consisting of alternating walnut and birch veneer. The map in the lower right has the surrounding roads and title protruding up from the main shoreline surface.

Lake Map Video (How Make a Lake Map - Overview)

This video shows the process I used to make the smooth contour lake maps.

Dmap2gcode generates g-code to cut depth based on a gray scale image darkness or lightness

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