Real-World Projects

Complete, production-ready GScript programs for actual projects. These examples demonstrate practical applications and real workflows.

PCB Isolation Routing

Mill isolation traces on a PCB for prototyping. Perfect for hobbyists and small-batch production.

Project: Single-sided PCB with isolation routing Time: ~25 minutes Difficulty: Intermediate

yaml

meta:
  part_name: "pcb-arduino-shield"
  material: "fr4-copper-clad"
  units: mm
  origin: {x:0, y:0, z:0}

tooling:
  # V-bit for isolation routing
  - id: vbit-30deg
    type: endmill
    diameter: 0.2  # Tip diameter
    max_rpm: 18000

  # Standard drill bits for holes
  - id: drill-0.8mm
    type: drill
    diameter: 0.8
    max_rpm: 12000

  - id: drill-1.0mm
    type: drill
    diameter: 1.0
    max_rpm: 12000

  # Larger drill for mounting holes
  - id: drill-3mm
    type: drill
    diameter: 3.0
    max_rpm: 8000

  # Endmill for board outline
  - id: endmill-2mm
    type: endmill
    diameter: 2.0
    max_rpm: 15000

setup:
  stock: {x:70, y:55, z:1.6}  # Standard PCB thickness
  safe_height: 2
  # Z-zero critical: Set on copper surface!

program:
  # Step 1: Isolation routing (traces)
  # Note: In production, you'd import trace paths from PCB software
  # This example shows the structure for a simple circuit

  # Isolation pass 1: Main power traces (wider)
  - op: contour
    tool: vbit-30deg
    depth: 0.15  # Just through copper layer
    pass_depth: 0.15
    feed: 400
    path:
      - {x:10, y:10, z:0}
      - {x:60, y:10, z:0}
      - {x:60, y:45, z:0}
      - {x:10, y:45, z:0}
      - {x:10, y:10, z:0}

  # Isolation pass 2: Signal traces
  - op: contour
    tool: vbit-30deg
    depth: 0.15
    pass_depth: 0.15
    feed: 400
    path:
      - {x:15, y:15, z:0}
      - {x:55, y:15, z:0}
      - {x:55, y:20, z:0}
      - {x:15, y:20, z:0}

  - op: contour
    tool: vbit-30deg
    depth: 0.15
    pass_depth: 0.15
    feed: 400
    path:
      - {x:15, y:25, z:0}
      - {x:55, y:25, z:0}
      - {x:55, y:30, z:0}
      - {x:15, y:30, z:0}

  # Step 2: Drill component holes (0.8mm for IC pins)
  - op: drill
    tool: drill-0.8mm
    depth: 1.7  # Through board + bit extra
    feed: 100
    peck_depth: 0.6
    locations:
      - {x:20, y:35, z:0}
      - {x:23, y:35, z:0}
      - {x:26, y:35, z:0}
      - {x:29, y:35, z:0}
      - {x:32, y:35, z:0}
      - {x:35, y:35, z:0}
      - {x:38, y:35, z:0}
      - {x:41, y:35, z:0}

  # Drill 1.0mm holes for resistors/caps
  - op: drill
    tool: drill-1.0mm
    depth: 1.7
    feed: 120
    peck_depth: 0.6
    locations:
      - {x:15, y:40, z:0}
      - {x:25, y:40, z:0}
      - {x:35, y:40, z:0}
      - {x:45, y:40, z:0}
      - {x:55, y:40, z:0}

  # Step 3: Mounting holes (corners)
  - op: drill
    tool: drill-3mm
    depth: 1.7
    feed: 150
    locations:
      - {x:5, y:5, z:0}
      - {x:65, y:5, z:0}
      - {x:5, y:50, z:0}
      - {x:65, y:50, z:0}

  # Step 4: Cut out board outline
  - op: contour
    tool: endmill-2mm
    depth: 1.7  # Cut through completely
    pass_depth: 0.6
    feed: 300
    closed: true
    path:
      - {x:0, y:0, z:0}
      - {x:70, y:0, z:0}
      - {x:70, y:55, z:0}
      - {x:0, y:55, z:0}

export:
  backend: grbl
  optimization: O1
  post_process: true

Tips for PCB Routing:

Z-Zero is critical - Set on copper surface precisely
Use peck drilling - FR4 is abrasive, helps chip clearing
Slow feeds - Copper clad requires slower speeds than aluminum
Tool selection: V-bits give cleanest isolation
Double-sided: Requires flipping and alignment holes
Import from PCB software: Use KiCad, Eagle, etc. to generate paths

Typical Settings:

Isolation depth: 0.1-0.2mm (just through copper)
Drill speed: 8,000-12,000 RPM
Feed rate: 300-500 mm/min for isolation
Tool: 20-30° V-bit, 0.1-0.2mm tip

Custom Electronics Enclosure

Machine a two-piece snap-fit enclosure for electronics projects.

Project: Raspberry Pi enclosure with mounting posts and ventilation Time: ~45 minutes per half Difficulty: Advanced

yaml

meta:
  part_name: "rpi-enclosure-bottom"
  material: "abs-plastic"
  units: mm
  origin: {x:0, y:0, z:0}

tooling:
  # Roughing tool
  - id: roughing-6mm
    type: endmill
    diameter: 6.0
    max_rpm: 12000
    flutes: 2

  # Finishing tool
  - id: finishing-3mm
    type: endmill
    diameter: 3.0
    max_rpm: 15000
    flutes: 2

  # Small detail tool
  - id: detail-1.5mm
    type: endmill
    diameter: 1.5
    max_rpm: 18000
    flutes: 2

  # Drills for mounting and ventilation
  - id: drill-2.5mm
    type: drill
    diameter: 2.5
    max_rpm: 10000

  - id: drill-4mm
    type: drill
    diameter: 4.0
    max_rpm: 8000

setup:
  stock: {x:100, y:75, z:20}
  safe_height: 8

program:
  # Step 1: Face top surface
  - op: face
    tool: roughing-6mm
    depth: 0.5
    pass_depth: 0.5
    feed: 1000
    bounds: rect(0, 0, 100, 75)

  # Step 2: Rough main cavity
  - op: pocket
    tool: roughing-6mm
    bounds: rect(3, 3, 94, 69)  # 3mm walls
    depth: 12.0
    pass_depth: 3.0
    feed: 800
    strategy: spiral
    stepover: 0.6

  # Step 3: Finish cavity walls
  - op: contour
    tool: finishing-3mm
    depth: 12.0
    pass_depth: 2.0
    feed: 600
    closed: true
    path:
      - {x:3, y:3, z:0}
      - {x:97, y:3, z:0}
      - {x:97, y:72, z:0}
      - {x:3, y:72, z:0}

  # Step 4: Create mounting post pockets (for heat-set inserts)
  # Bottom-left post
  - op: pocket
    tool: detail-1.5mm
    bounds: rect(8, 8, 6, 6)
    depth: 8.0
    pass_depth: 1.5
    feed: 500
    strategy: spiral

  # Bottom-right post
  - op: pocket
    tool: detail-1.5mm
    bounds: rect(86, 8, 6, 6)
    depth: 8.0
    pass_depth: 1.5
    feed: 500
    strategy: spiral

  # Top-left post
  - op: pocket
    tool: detail-1.5mm
    bounds: rect(8, 61, 6, 6)
    depth: 8.0
    pass_depth: 1.5
    feed: 500
    strategy: spiral

  # Top-right post
  - op: pocket
    tool: detail-1.5mm
    bounds: rect(86, 61, 6, 6)
    depth: 8.0
    pass_depth: 1.5
    feed: 500
    strategy: spiral

  # Step 5: Drill center holes for heat-set inserts (M2.5)
  - op: drill
    tool: drill-2.5mm
    depth: 10.0
    feed: 200
    peck_depth: 2.5
    locations:
      - {x:11, y:11, z:0}
      - {x:89, y:11, z:0}
      - {x:11, y:64, z:0}
      - {x:89, y:64, z:0}

  # Step 6: Ventilation holes (pattern)
  - op: drill
    tool: drill-4mm
    depth: 13.0  # Through bottom
    feed: 250
    locations:
      # Row 1
      - {x:15, y:30, z:0}
      - {x:25, y:30, z:0}
      - {x:35, y:30, z:0}
      - {x:45, y:30, z:0}
      - {x:55, y:30, z:0}
      - {x:65, y:30, z:0}
      - {x:75, y:30, z:0}
      - {x:85, y:30, z:0}
      # Row 2
      - {x:15, y:40, z:0}
      - {x:25, y:40, z:0}
      - {x:35, y:40, z:0}
      - {x:45, y:40, z:0}
      - {x:55, y:40, z:0}
      - {x:65, y:40, z:0}
      - {x:75, y:40, z:0}
      - {x:85, y:40, z:0}
      # Row 3
      - {x:15, y:50, z:0}
      - {x:25, y:50, z:0}
      - {x:35, y:50, z:0}
      - {x:45, y:50, z:0}
      - {x:55, y:50, z:0}
      - {x:65, y:50, z:0}
      - {x:75, y:50, z:0}
      - {x:85, y:50, z:0}

  # Step 7: Create snap-fit ledge (for top half)
  - op: contour
    tool: finishing-3mm
    depth: 2.0
    pass_depth: 1.0
    feed: 600
    closed: true
    path:
      - {x:5, y:5, z:0}
      - {x:95, y:5, z:0}
      - {x:95, y:70, z:0}
      - {x:5, y:70, z:0}

export:
  backend: grbl
  optimization: O1
  post_process: true

Enclosure Features:

3mm wall thickness for strength
Mounting posts for PCB with heat-set inserts (M2.5)
Ventilation holes for cooling
Snap-fit ledge for top half
Fits Raspberry Pi 4 (85mm x 56mm)

Material Notes (ABS Plastic):

Lower speeds than aluminum (avoid melting)
Sharp tools essential
Chip evacuation important
Can also use: Acrylic, PETG, Nylon, Delrin

For the top half: Create similar program with:

Shallow pocket (5mm deep)
Matching snap-fit tabs
Optional display cutout
Access holes for ports

Laser-Engraved Wood Sign

Create a raised-letter wooden sign with engraved background.

Project: Hanging house number sign Time: ~35 minutes Difficulty: Intermediate

yaml

meta:
  part_name: "house-number-sign-123"
  material: "hardwood-maple"
  units: mm
  origin: {x:0, y:0, z:0}

tooling:
  # V-bit for engraving
  - id: vbit-60deg
    type: endmill
    diameter: 1.0  # Tip diameter
    max_rpm: 15000

  # Flat endmill for clearing
  - id: endmill-3mm
    type: endmill
    diameter: 3.0
    max_rpm: 18000
    flutes: 2

  # Drill for hanging holes
  - id: drill-5mm
    type: drill
    diameter: 5.0
    max_rpm: 8000

setup:
  stock: {x:300, y:120, z:18}
  safe_height: 8

program:
  # Step 1: Face surface for clean finish
  - op: face
    tool: endmill-3mm
    depth: 0.5
    pass_depth: 0.5
    feed: 1200
    bounds: rect(0, 0, 300, 120)
    stepover: 0.6

  # Step 2: Pocket around numbers (leaving numbers raised)
  # This is the "background" - everything except the numbers

  # Left side pocket
  - op: pocket
    tool: endmill-3mm
    bounds: rect(10, 10, 50, 100)
    depth: 3.0
    pass_depth: 1.0
    feed: 900
    strategy: climb

  # Between "1" and "2"
  - op: pocket
    tool: endmill-3mm
    bounds: rect(90, 10, 30, 100)
    depth: 3.0
    pass_depth: 1.0
    feed: 900
    strategy: climb

  # Between "2" and "3"
  - op: pocket
    tool: endmill-3mm
    bounds: rect(150, 10, 30, 100)
    depth: 3.0
    pass_depth: 1.0
    feed: 900
    strategy: climb

  # Right side pocket
  - op: pocket
    tool: endmill-3mm
    bounds: rect(210, 10, 80, 100)
    depth: 3.0
    pass_depth: 1.0
    feed: 900
    strategy: climb

  # Top pocket
  - op: pocket
    tool: endmill-3mm
    bounds: rect(60, 10, 150, 25)
    depth: 3.0
    pass_depth: 1.0
    feed: 900
    strategy: climb

  # Bottom pocket
  - op: pocket
    tool: endmill-3mm
    bounds: rect(60, 85, 150, 25)
    depth: 3.0
    pass_depth: 1.0
    feed: 900
    strategy: climb

  # Step 3: V-carve decorative border
  - op: contour
    tool: vbit-60deg
    depth: 2.0
    pass_depth: 1.0
    feed: 600
    closed: true
    path:
      - {x:5, y:5, z:0}
      - {x:295, y:5, z:0}
      - {x:295, y:115, z:0}
      - {x:5, y:115, z:0}

  - op: contour
    tool: vbit-60deg
    depth: 2.0
    pass_depth: 1.0
    feed: 600
    closed: true
    path:
      - {x:8, y:8, z:0}
      - {x:292, y:8, z:0}
      - {x:292, y:112, z:0}
      - {x:8, y:112, z:0}

  # Step 4: Drill hanging holes
  - op: drill
    tool: drill-5mm
    depth: 16.0  # Most of the way through
    feed: 250
    peck_depth: 4.0
    locations:
      - {x:30, y:60, z:0}   # Left hole
      - {x:270, y:60, z:0}  # Right hole

  # Step 5: (Optional) Create keyhole hangers
  # Mill slots from drill holes
  - op: contour
    tool: endmill-3mm
    depth: 16.0
    pass_depth: 4.0
    feed: 400
    path:
      - {x:30, y:60, z:0}
      - {x:30, y:50, z:0}

  - op: contour
    tool: endmill-3mm
    depth: 16.0
    pass_depth: 4.0
    feed: 400
    path:
      - {x:270, y:60, z:0}
      - {x:270, y:50, z:0}

export:
  backend: grbl
  optimization: O1
  post_process: true

Sign-Making Notes:

Raised letters: Background is pocketed, letters stay at original height
V-carving: Creates crisp, clean lines
Wood choice: Hardwoods (maple, oak, walnut) machine better
Finishing: Sand, stain/paint letters, seal with polyurethane
Alternative: Instead of pockets, use V-bit to trace letter outlines

Typical Process:

Generate letter paths from design software (Inkscape, Illustrator)
Convert to GScript contour operations
Create raised effect with background pocket
V-carve decorative elements
Finish with sandpaper, stain, seal

Tips:

Use sharp tools (wood dulls cutters)
Lower feed for hardwoods
Climb milling prevents tearout
Shallow passes (1-2mm) for clean edges

CNC Fixture Plate with T-Slots

Professional-grade fixture plate for work holding.

Project: Modular fixture plate with T-slot grid Time: ~90 minutes Difficulty: Advanced

yaml

meta:
  part_name: "fixture-plate-200x200-tslot"
  material: "aluminum-6061-t6"
  units: mm
  origin: {x:0, y:0, z:0}
  # Machinist notes:
  # - Face both sides for flatness
  # - Check square before starting
  # - Verify T-slot cutter depth

tooling:
  # Face mill for large surfaces
  - id: face-mill-20mm
    type: face_mill
    diameter: 20.0
    max_rpm: 6000
    flutes: 4

  # Endmill for slots
  - id: endmill-12mm
    type: endmill
    diameter: 12.0
    max_rpm: 8000
    flutes: 3

  # T-slot cutter (12mm shank, 16mm head)
  - id: tslot-cutter
    type: endmill
    diameter: 16.0
    max_rpm: 4000
    flutes: 2

  # Drill for mounting holes
  - id: drill-10mm
    type: drill
    diameter: 10.0
    max_rpm: 3000

  # Tap drill for M8 threads
  - id: drill-6.8mm
    type: drill
    diameter: 6.8
    max_rpm: 3000

setup:
  stock: {x:210, y:210, z:25}
  safe_height: 10

program:
  # Step 1: Face top surface
  - op: face
    tool: face-mill-20mm
    depth: 1.0
    pass_depth: 0.5
    feed: 800
    bounds: rect(0, 0, 200, 200)
    stepover: 0.8

  # Step 2: Mill slots for T-tracks
  # Horizontal slots (5 rows, 40mm apart)
  - op: contour
    tool: endmill-12mm
    depth: 12.0
    pass_depth: 3.0
    feed: 600
    path:
      - {x:10, y:40, z:0}
      - {x:190, y:40, z:0}

  - op: contour
    tool: endmill-12mm
    depth: 12.0
    pass_depth: 3.0
    feed: 600
    path:
      - {x:10, y:80, z:0}
      - {x:190, y:80, z:0}

  - op: contour
    tool: endmill-12mm
    depth: 12.0
    pass_depth: 3.0
    feed: 600
    path:
      - {x:10, y:120, z:0}
      - {x:190, y:120, z:0}

  - op: contour
    tool: endmill-12mm
    depth: 12.0
    pass_depth: 3.0
    feed: 600
    path:
      - {x:10, y:160, z:0}
      - {x:190, y:160, z:0}

  # Vertical slots (5 columns, 40mm apart)
  - op: contour
    tool: endmill-12mm
    depth: 12.0
    pass_depth: 3.0
    feed: 600
    path:
      - {x:40, y:10, z:0}
      - {x:40, y:190, z:0}

  - op: contour
    tool: endmill-12mm
    depth: 12.0
    pass_depth: 3.0
    feed: 600
    path:
      - {x:80, y:10, z:0}
      - {x:80, y:190, z:0}

  - op: contour
    tool: endmill-12mm
    depth: 12.0
    pass_depth: 3.0
    feed: 600
    path:
      - {x:120, y:10, z:0}
      - {x:120, y:190, z:0}

  - op: contour
    tool: endmill-12mm
    depth: 12.0
    pass_depth: 3.0
    feed: 600
    path:
      - {x:160, y:10, z:0}
      - {x:160, y:190, z:0}

  # Step 3: Create T-slot undercuts
  # Note: T-slot cutter creates the "T" profile
  # Run at depth of slot bottom (12mm)

  # Horizontal T-slots
  - op: contour
    tool: tslot-cutter
    depth: 12.0
    pass_depth: 12.0
    feed: 200  # Slow for T-slot cutter
    path:
      - {x:10, y:40, z:0}
      - {x:190, y:40, z:0}

  - op: contour
    tool: tslot-cutter
    depth: 12.0
    pass_depth: 12.0
    feed: 200
    path:
      - {x:10, y:80, z:0}
      - {x:190, y:80, z:0}

  - op: contour
    tool: tslot-cutter
    depth: 12.0
    pass_depth: 12.0
    feed: 200
    path:
      - {x:10, y:120, z:0}
      - {x:190, y:120, z:0}

  - op: contour
    tool: tslot-cutter
    depth: 12.0
    pass_depth: 12.0
    feed: 200
    path:
      - {x:10, y:160, z:0}
      - {x:190, y:160, z:0}

  # Vertical T-slots
  - op: contour
    tool: tslot-cutter
    depth: 12.0
    pass_depth: 12.0
    feed: 200
    path:
      - {x:40, y:10, z:0}
      - {x:40, y:190, z:0}

  - op: contour
    tool: tslot-cutter
    depth: 12.0
    pass_depth: 12.0
    feed: 200
    path:
      - {x:80, y:10, z:0}
      - {x:80, y:190, z:0}

  - op: contour
    tool: tslot-cutter
    depth: 12.0
    pass_depth: 12.0
    feed: 200
    path:
      - {x:120, y:10, z:0}
      - {x:120, y:190, z:0}

  - op: contour
    tool: tslot-cutter
    depth: 12.0
    pass_depth: 12.0
    feed: 200
    path:
      - {x:160, y:10, z:0}
      - {x:160, y:190, z:0}

  # Step 4: Drill corner mounting holes
  - op: drill
    tool: drill-10mm
    depth: 22.0  # Through-holes
    feed: 150
    peck_depth: 5.0
    locations:
      - {x:10, y:10, z:0}
      - {x:190, y:10, z:0}
      - {x:10, y:190, z:0}
      - {x:190, y:190, z:0}

  # Step 5: Drill/tap grid holes for clamping
  # These holes get tapped M8 after machining
  - op: drill
    tool: drill-6.8mm
    depth: 18.0
    feed: 120
    peck_depth: 4.0
    locations:
      # Center grid (9 holes, 40mm spacing)
      - {x:60, y:60, z:0}
      - {x:100, y:60, z:0}
      - {x:140, y:60, z:0}
      - {x:60, y:100, z:0}
      - {x:100, y:100, z:0}
      - {x:140, y:100, z:0}
      - {x:60, y:140, z:0}
      - {x:100, y:140, z:0}
      - {x:140, y:140, z:0}

export:
  backend: linuxcnc  # Industrial machine
  optimization: O1
  post_process: true

Fixture Plate Features:

200mm x 200mm working area
T-slot grid (40mm spacing)
M8 threaded holes for clamps
Precision-faced for flatness
Modular work holding system

Post-Machining:

Tap all holes to M8 x 1.25
Deburr all edges
Optional: Anodize for corrosion protection
Check flatness with precision straightedge

Usage:

Accepts standard T-nuts and clamps
Modular setups for different parts
Repeatable positioning
Professional work holding

Comparing G-code Output

See the difference GScript makes. Here's the simple-drill example:

GScript (10 lines)

yaml

meta:
  part_name: "drill-pattern"

tooling:
  - id: drill1
    diameter: 5.0

setup:
  stock: {x:50, y:50, z:10}

program:
  - op: drill
    tool: drill1
    locations:
      - {x:10, y:10}
      - {x:40, y:10}
      - {x:10, y:40}
      - {x:40, y:40}
    depth: 5
    feed: 300

Generated G-code (40+ lines)

gcode

; Part: drill-pattern
; Generated by GScript

G21 G90 G17
M6 T1
S5000 M3
G0 Z5.0

G0 X10 Y10
G1 Z-5.0 F300
G0 Z5.0

G0 X40 Y10
G1 Z-5.0 F300
G0 Z5.0

G0 X10 Y40
G1 Z-5.0 F300
G0 Z5.0

G0 X40 Y40
G1 Z-5.0 F300
G0 Z5.0

M5
G0 Z5.0
M30

90% less code, infinitely more readable, and generates perfect G-code.

Tips for Real Projects

Project Planning

Sketch first - Draw your part, mark dimensions
Break into operations - Face, rough, finish, drill, cutout
Tool selection - Choose appropriate sizes and types
Material prep - Square stock, establish zero points
Test programs - Run simulation first

Common Workflows

Pattern 1: Enclosures

Face → Rough pocket → Finish walls → Drill holes → Cutout

Pattern 2: Plates

Face → Pockets/features → Drill mounting holes

Pattern 3: Signs

Face → Background pocket → Detail V-carve → Drill hangers

Pattern 4: PCBs

Isolation routing → Drill holes → Board outline

Production Checklist

[ ] Stock properly squared and clamped
[ ] Zero points established (X, Y, Z)
[ ] Tools loaded in correct positions
[ ] Feeds and speeds appropriate for material
[ ] Program simulated and validated
[ ] Safety check (soft limits, estop)
[ ] First-article inspection after first run

Download & Try

All examples available in the repository:

bash

cd gscript-core/examples
# Compile any example
gscriptc compile <example>.gscript --target grbl -o output.gcode

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Submit examples via pull request
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Next Steps

Basic Examples - Start here if these are complex
Advanced Examples - More programming patterns
CLI Commands - Master the toolchain
Language Reference - Complete syntax guide

Real-World Projects ​

PCB Isolation Routing ​

Custom Electronics Enclosure ​

Laser-Engraved Wood Sign ​

CNC Fixture Plate with T-Slots ​

Comparing G-code Output ​

GScript (10 lines) ​

Generated G-code (40+ lines) ​

Tips for Real Projects ​

Project Planning ​

Common Workflows ​

Production Checklist ​

Download & Try ​

Share Your Projects! ​

Next Steps ​

Real-World Projects

PCB Isolation Routing

Custom Electronics Enclosure

Laser-Engraved Wood Sign

CNC Fixture Plate with T-Slots

Comparing G-code Output

GScript (10 lines)

Generated G-code (40+ lines)

Tips for Real Projects

Project Planning

Common Workflows

Production Checklist

Download & Try

Share Your Projects!

Next Steps