LatheEasyStep – experimental QtVCP macro for step-by-step lathe programming

Repository:
github.com/peter-pan08/LatheEasyStep LatheEasyStep is an experimental QtVCP panel for LinuxCNC that enables step-by-step conversational lathe programming directly at the machine — without external CAM software.The goal is fast, safe, and practical programming for typical workshop jobs.PurposeLatheEasyStep is designed for:

• Programming simple to medium turning operations directly at the machine
• Repetitive standard jobs (facing, contouring, grooving, drilling, threading, roughing)
• A workflow-focused approach:
  Enter parameters → Verify preview → Generate G-code

It aims to bring an industrial-style conversational workflow to LinuxCNC.Current Feature SetProgram Structure

• Program header with stock/workpiece parameters
  (diameters, lengths, units, safety values)
• Step-based program building with sortable operation list
• Save/load for single steps and full programs
• Bilingual UI (DE/EN)

Supported Operations

• Facing
• Contour
• Groove / parting-style operations
• Drilling
• Threading
• Roughing (material removal)
• Keyway (macro-based)

Preview & Visualization

• Live X/Z preview including reference geometry
• Dedicated chuck safety zone visualization (color-coded with legend)

Safety & Motion Logic (Core Focus)

• Context-aware retract/free-travel behavior per operation
• Material-aware retract decisions
• Extended chuck / no-go safety parameters:
  • Chuck size
  • Workpiece type
  • Clamping mode
  • Chuck profile
• Machine/workshop profile presets for faster setup

Project Status

• Experimental
• Actively developed
• Designed for real machine workflows
• Iterative improvements based on practical use

Known Limitations

• Not a full CAM replacement
• Complex freeform geometry is intentionally limited
• Machine-specific adaptation may be required

Target Direction

• Fast conversational programming at the machine
• Clear and understandable geometry visualization
• Safer default behavior for common turning tasks
• Continuous refinement driven by community feedback

Feedback WelcomeIf you test it, helpful reports include:

• Brief machine/configuration info
• Reproducible steps
• Expected vs. actual behavior
• Optional screenshots, preview images, or G-code snippets

 

This should be moved to the Qtvcp section.
Looks promising! Keep is updated! If you get stumped with the programming i can try to help.

I've never moved anything in a forum before, how do I do that?

cmorley wrote:

This should be moved to the Qtvcp section..

Done.
Thank you.

Hi,
this looks really cool, thanks for sharing! I’ll definitely be testing it once my lathe is ready.

I really like the idea of solid onboard solutions. If this works well, you could do around 90% of lathe parts without external CAM, which would be a real improvement.

It reminds me a bit of Native CAM. Do you know it?
If so, I’d be interested in what made you decide to develop a completely new macro. From my point of view, Native CAM on the turning side is mainly missing proper G71 support and a polyline tool (which already exists in Native CAM Mill).

This is not meant as criticism, I generally find new developments very exciting. I’m not a programmer myself and can’t really judge the effort involved, which is why I’m asking.

Either way, very promising project. Looking forward to seeing how it develops

greetings 
Tom

I note you use the qtpy abstraction layer. This is not pulled in for our linuxcnc package, so could trip some people up. I would suggest adding a descriptive warning to the terminal if the module is not found.