Universal G-Code Sender: Mapping The Stock - 3D Probe Workflow for CNC
Download the macro to turn a points file into a 3D solid: https://ko-fi.com/s/5ccd8d158a
Download the macro to select only the edges of an object: https://ko-fi.com/s/e5b7381036
In this video, I show how to use a 3D probe with Universal Gcode Sender (UGS) and FreeCAD to mill perfectly on uneven surfaces.
First, we look at what happens when you try to engrave on a wavy piece of wood without probing — the results aren’t great! Then I demonstrate how to:
Set the probing parameters and the Coordinates
Scan the surface with UGS
Export from UGS and import the scanned data into FreeCAD
Adapt the toolpath to match the 3D surface
Use the FreeCAD macro to get a solid out of the scanned data
Run the program again in UGS and get perfect engraving results
Finally, I show how you can directly adapt your toolpath inside UGS, and what happens when a small error leads to a crash — so you’ll know exactly what to watch out for.
This workflow is fully open-source, using FreeCAD for CAM and Universal Gcode Sender for machine control — no proprietary software needed!
If you want perfectly sized halftone dots, especially on uneven stock, combine this probing workflow with my halftone tutorial: • Turn Any Image into a Halftone CNC Toolpat...
If you’re new to UGS or want to understand its basic setup before diving into 3D scanning, make sure to watch my beginner-friendly guide — Universal Gcode Sender (UGS) Beginner Tutorial.
It covers everything from connecting your CNC to sending your first G-code file, and it’s the perfect foundation for using the advanced mapping and probing features shown in this video: • Universal Gcode Sender (UGS) Beginner Tuto...
If you want to learn more about the probe setup, check out CNC Tutorial: Model, Mill & Set an XYZ Probe. In that video, I explain how to design, model, and configure an XYZ touch probe in FreeCAD and UGS — step for performing accurate 3D scanning and mapping like we’ve done here: • CNC Tutorial: Model, Mill & Set an XYZ Pro...
Once you’ve mastered 3D surface mapping, take your skills to the next level with V-Carve Text on a Cylinder | 4-Axis CNC Tutorial in FreeCAD 1.1. There, I show how to create and engrave text on a cylindrical surface using the rotary axis, combining 3D geometry and precision toolpaths for advanced multi-axis machining: • V-Carve Text on a Cylinder | 4-Axis CNC Tu...
In this video, you saw how powerful macros can be when automating 3D workflows. If you want to discover more tools that will save time and make FreeCAD CAM even smoother, watch 5 Time-Saving FreeCAD Macros I Always Needed. You’ll find free downloads and examples of macros that speed up modeling, toolpath generation, and CAM setup: • 5 Time-Saving FreeCAD Macros I Always Need...
00:00 – Intro
00:50 – Why Use a 3D Probe? – Benefits of 3D surface mapping before CNC engraving
01:33 – Testing on a Real Wavy Oak Board
01:48 – Importing and Preparing the SVG Logo for CNC engraving in FreeCAD
02:41 – Accurate Logo Placement using parameters and axes cross for perfect alignment
04:02 – Setting Up the CNC Job in FreeCAD (add toolbits, post-processor)
05:11 – Creating and Generating the Engraving Toolpath, then exporting G-code
06:55 – Engraving the Logo on an Uneven Surface
09:40 – Setting the 3D Probe Coordinates in UGS
15:25 – Auto-Leveler Module Setup
17:34 – Scanning the Surface with the 3D Probe
18:50 – Saving the Surface Scan (avoid freezing and data loss in UGS)
20:07 – Adapting the Engraving G-Code in FreeCAD using scanned surface data from UGS
21:07 – Fixing Issues when using Z-correction dress-up
22:58 – Convert Scan Data into a 3D Solid
24:48 – Setting toolbit Z accurately using a tool setter
26:07 – Engraving the Logo with Surface Compensation
27:20 – Adapting the G-Code to the Probed Surface in UGS
27:50 – Fixing Scan Coverage Issues
28:57 – Deep plunge issues and how to avoid them
32:27 – Final Thoughts
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You can book a one on one session with me, to sort things out if you need help with certain projects or situations:
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