3D model problems

[ScottOlson]

Just getting started with the Bot and having 3D model issues. When I import a 3D model, create a vector around it, then generate a finish toolpath, the model is not parallel to the wood surface or the table surface. It is tilted slightly one way. When I machine this, the area between the model's edge and the created vector is cut into the wood. This increases towards the "tilt" of the model. it is only cutting in about .010" or so. This is hard to clean up and I figurerd I am doing something wrong!

Anyone have any ideas? Thanks !!

[blackhawk]

Scott - Can you post a picture of a 3D carving with this problem?

[navigator7]

I find errors like that in extrusions or creation of sheets.
You think you are extruding on the X, Y or Z axis but instead it's off a wee bit.
My guess is your bot is machining exactly what it is told.

How about the table?
Has it been surfaced?

[Mayo]

If the model is not parallel to the wood surface or the machine surface, it sounds like the model is not positioned exactly flat or parallel in the original file.

If the model AND the wood surface were uniformly cut on an angle in the X or the Y position, then I think it would mean the spoil board is not parallel with the rails or the machine is out of square.

[ScottOlson]

Thanks for the replies!

The table has been surfaced, twice. When I looked at the Preview in Aspire, it appears that the models are "tilted" away from the X axis. There were two models and they both appeared this way. The Bot seems to machine correctly. So, I believe I am doing something wrong in Aspire. I have seen this on different models I've used also, so it's not this specific model. I tried to attach the Preview, but the file is too large.

Any more ideas? Thanks!!

[navigator7]

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Any more ideas? Thanks!!
It might be you are inadvertently rotating the file with a misplaced key command. I do it all the time....by accident.

[ScottOlson]

When you have a 3D model and you go to put a vector around it for a boundry, is the proper procedure to select the model, then do a "trace bitmap"? I see this gives a vector that is fitted perfectly to the perimeter of the model. Before I was just putting an oval a little larger than the model's perimeter.

[ssflyer]

Scott,

That's how I do it - select black and white, then usually slide the bar all the way to the right.

Ron

[navigator7]

When you have a 3D model and you go to put a vector around it for a boundry, is the proper procedure to select the model, then do a "trace bitmap"?

Are you tracing a bitmap or a 3D model?
What you are describing sounds suspiciously close to 'Save As' .stl?

An .stl file is totally machinable.

[ScottOlson]

Thanks everyone for your input!!!!

I checked all the mechanics and eveything looks good. I used Ron Sloan's method of creating a vector around a 3D model, which was an .stl. When I machined this I got the results I am looking for!! The "dished" model looks good.

Thanks again!! This Forum is an incredible source of info and help!!!