TubeNotcher Paper Template including

[zipzit]

I'm a mediocre welder but a pretty good software developer. A few years ago, I wrote a program to do tube notching, generally for custom bicycle builders. I wrote the software in Java, and that language now has major security requirements, as it relates to functional applets within the browser. All the security warnings just turned folks away. I thought was time for an update. Additionally, I keep seeing these awesome exhaust collectors on this site. That got me thinking about making one of these.

I figured I'd use this exercise to improve my TIG skills. I need stands for my PortaBand, for a new Craigslist vise and for my bench grinder. Ten feet of pipe is just enough for one stand.. Weld feet on the bottom, fill bottom half of the stand with sand.

So I've re-written the software and added a whole bunch of enhancements. With this software you can create full size paper templates for critical joints. Cut out with scissors, tape to your materials. Use spray paint or magic markers to mark the edges. Cut with hand held cut off tool or grinder. You can make stuff doggone accurate. No, it may not be fast, but certainly do-able. Templates for collectors, templates for ovals, etc. Would love to get some feed back from folks on this forum. The one weak area I'm aware of is rectangular tubing. I need a parametric equation for a rectangle with 2 times material thickness radii at the corners... (Frankly thinking about that math, makes my head hurt...)

Click here for the software. Nothing to download. Runs in JavaScript in your browser (Chrome / Firefox) recommended.

What I'm really looking for is feedback. Things gone right, things that could be improved, things you wish you had, etc...


Many thanks,

LB Corney (Zip...)

[bebo]

That's really cool. My TurboCad software has a function called "unwrap face" which I needed on a recent job. It does the same thing. When I get some time I will try this out and compare the results to the cad program.

[Mondo]

Outstanding thread! This is a butt saver!

- Mondo

[whtbaron]

I had forgotten about this one... haven't tried using it yet. I'm surprised the links all still work from 2015, that's rare.

[NotaVegetarian]

Well the link works, I just don’t follow the metric system well

[Jodo]

Could promote that to stock car racers. Most fab their own cars and roll cages. Very handy tool there mate