G-code is the most widely used computer numerical control (CNC) programming language. It is used mainly in computer-aided manufacturing to control automated machine tools.
G-code instructions are provided to a machine controller that tells the motors where to move, how fast to move, and what paths to follow.
A G-code file contains a series of G-code instructions. To operate the machine for engraving and cutting, you must first prepare a G-code file. This article describes how to prepare a G-code file.
Open Luban on your computer.
Connect Luban with your machine. Then, use Camera Capture to take photos of the work area and generate a background for your image.
Skip this step if you use work origin to determine the position of your engraving and cutting image.
You can choose a case from the case library of Luban and load it to the canvas.
You can also choose an image from your computer. The add files icon is on the left of the canvas.
You can also add text, rectangles, ellipses or other patterns. The tool bar is on the left of the canvas. When adding text, you can type in any characters and set the font and the font size.
Adjust the positions, sizes, and rotation angles of the images, patterns or text.
Click to choose an image, and select and configure a Processing Mode for the image. Repeat this step to configure processing modes for the other images. When multiple images overlap, you can right click on the images to Bring to Front and Send to Back to select the image you want.
Switch Edit to Process. Click to choose an image, a pattern, or text, and click Create Toolpath. Configure parameters about the toolpaths of the laser engraving and cutting machine. Repeat this step to create and configure toolpaths for the other images, patterns, or text. Then, you can Prioritize or Deprioritize each toolpath to determine the engraving and cutting sequence.
You can configure the same or different toolpaths for different images, patterns, or text. You can also configure multiple toolpaths for one image, pattern, or text. If a toolpath for engraving overlaps with a toolpath for cutting, we recommend that you prioritize the toolpath for engraving to avoid undermining engraving quality in case the materials become less stable after being cut.
If you do not create a toolpath for an image, a pattern, or text, then they will not be engraved or cut.