09/14/2026
I’ve been experimenting with something that opens up some interesting possibilities for CNC design:
**Using ChatGPT to build Lua Gadgets for Vectric Aspire.**
Instead of manually creating the same vectors over and over, I’ve been working with ChatGPT to turn design ideas into parameterized Aspire Gadgets.
For example, we built a **Two-Line Address Sign Gadget** that can generate a complete 12" × 8" sign with:
• Adjustable sign dimensions
• Rounded corners
• Single or double inset borders
• Two independently positioned text lines
• Automatic text sizing and centering
• Multiple CNC vector lettering styles
• Selectable decorative dividers
• Separate Aspire layers for the profile, borders, text, and decoration
The interesting part isn't just the finished sign.
It's the development process.
We started with very simple geometry and tested the Aspire Lua API one capability at a time. Once we knew a technique worked, we reused that proven approach to build increasingly sophisticated Gadgets.
ChatGPT helped generate the Lua code, HTML user interface, parameter calculations, vector geometry, and debugging changes.
That changes the economics of creating custom CNC automation.
A woodworker or CNC designer doesn't necessarily have to become an expert Lua programmer before creating useful Aspire automation. If you understand the design rules and can describe what you want, AI can help translate those requirements into working code.
There are still limitations. Aspire's Gadget API doesn't expose everything we'd like, and AI-generated code still has to be tested against the actual software.
But the combination of **domain expertise + AI-assisted programming + incremental testing** is powerful.
I'm going to keep exploring what we can build.
**What repetitive Aspire design task would you turn into a Gadget?**
