Planar-to-Rotary G-code Transformation Via Post-Processing for Discrete 4-Axis Machining

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Volume: 12 | Issue: 1 | Year 2026 | Subscription
International Journal of Computer Aided Manufacturing
Received Date: 02/26/2026
Acceptance Date: 02/27/2026
Published On: 2026-03-13
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By: Pedro Portugal, Damian Venghaus, and Diego Lopez.

1. Tecnologico de Monterrey, Queretaro School of Engineering and Sciences
2. Grafisch Lyceum Rotterdam, Rotterdam, 3013 AK
3. Tecnologico de Monterrey, Queretaro, 76130

Abstract

Conventional 4-axis CNC machining remains inaccessible to many due to the high costs of industrial hardware and the complexity of firmware modifications for entry-level controllers. This paper presents a software-defined framework that enables Planar-to-Rotary G-code Transformation, allowing standard 3-axis CNC systems to perform discrete 4-axis machining without hardware retrofits or firmware changes. The core of the proposed method is a custom Python-based post-processor that maps Cartesian XZ toolpaths onto a cylindrical coordinate system by injecting indexed Y-axis rotations.

The framework incorporates an automated calculation module that determines optimal angular displacement based on stock diameter and tool geometry, utilizing an 80% overlap factor to ensure surface continuity. To facilitate user adoption, the system was implemented as both a desktop GUI with 3D visualization capabilities and a platform-independent web interface. Experimental validation using hardwood and copper specimens demonstrated high dimensional fidelity, with average deviations within ±0.25 mm. By shifting the complexity from hardware to a post-processing software layer, this approach provides a cost-effective solution for indexed rotary fabrication, expanding the capabilities of desktop CNCs in educational, prototyping, and makerspace environments.

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How to cite this article: Pedro Portugal, Damian Venghaus, and Diego Lopez Planar-to-Rotary G-code Transformation Via Post-Processing for Discrete 4-Axis Machining. International Journal of Computer Aided Manufacturing. 2026; 12(1): -p.

How to cite this URL: Pedro Portugal, Damian Venghaus, and Diego Lopez, Planar-to-Rotary G-code Transformation Via Post-Processing for Discrete 4-Axis Machining. International Journal of Computer Aided Manufacturing. 2026; 12(1): -p. Available from:https://journalspub.com/publication/ijcam/article=26082

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