Using 2D and 3D toolpaths on same file

[cnc_fabricator11]

Hello everyone,

I've got a 3D model in Rhino that is relatively large (6.5' x 1'-6" roughly) that has a significant amount of 2D cutting and a small portion of 3D cutting. I generally use an 1/8" tapered ballnose bit for our 3D projects, but it seems highly inefficient to use that size bit on the whole piece just to accomplish what little 3D cutting there is. I use PW3d, Aspire, and Rhino for toolpaths. I'd like to take my 3D model and designate 2D toolpaths and 3D toolpaths in the same file so that I only have to come back with a tapered ballnose to cut out the small 3D areas with minor detail. It's sort of difficult to explain on the forum but I'd appreciate any feedback.


Thanks,

-P

[knight_toolworks]

I do it all of the time. Just draw the part you want in 3d and the rest in 2d. then you can use cut3d to make the toolpath import it into partworks and place it in the right spot.

[cnc_fabricator11]

Steve,

Thanks for the response. I'm familiar with the process you are describing, but let's say I have a sloped surface that ramps up into a flat surface, when I import just the sloped surface into Cut3D the toolpath runs the tapered ballnose up the slope and down into the material as if it to cut out the slope. Is there a way to program it to just cut the slope? btw, I don't have access to a v-bit with the slope angle I'm trying to achieve which is why I'm using a tapered ballnose if you're wondering.


Thanks again

[srwtlc]

Patrick,

Don't know for sure what it is that you're doing, but if you create and select a vector boundary for the 3D part when toolpathing it, it will limit the toolpath to just that area. You'll need to play with the boundary offset value to suit.

[tmerrill]

Patrick,

If you have Aspire, forget PW3D for something like this.

Do it all in Aspire, then create a vector around the 3D part. Have this vector selected when you calculate the 3D toolpaths and that will limit the toolpaths to within that boundary.

Tim

[cnc_fabricator11]

Great info everyone. I'll try the creating a boundary method tomorrow and let you know if there are any hiccups.


Thanks so much,


-P

[knight_toolworks]

also if it is just a straight angle use a straight bit. that will give a cleaner cut do it faster too. you can have a large stepover.
I did this with a 1/2" straight bit with about 40% stepover. I wanted to use a 1.5" bit but it needs ramped in.
http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s266/knighttoolworks/posting/83fd69a3.jpg I have done slopes with the same straight bit it works so much better then a ballnose.

[cnc_fabricator11]

Drawing boundaries in Aspire sufficed for isolating the 3D cutting area. Thanks again for the suggestions.

Steve the larger straight bit suggestion worked out for our angle, really appreciate it.



-Patrick