Blender and shopbot

[carter_beck]

I am expecting my shopbot in a few weeks. I expect to use it in fine furniture construction. I have been researching 3d modeling software such as Artcam. Artcam is frankly out of the question because of the price. Does anyone know if 3d models from Blender can be toolpathed and machined on the shopbot. I am particularly interested in producing complex fluted turnings on the indexer. anyone know Blender?

[paco]

Sure can!

Blender will be a tool to produce 3D models but you'll still need a 3D CAM (toolpathing software). Most 3D CAM will use *.3DS and *.OBJ file formats. I suggest giving a fair try to Vectric's Cut 3D (http://www.vectric.com/WebSite/Vectric/cut3d/c3d_index.htm) for a start.

[myxpykalix]

Carter,
Here is an app from Randy Nelson that might help you:
http://www.nelsonsdesignssp.com/Nelsons%20Designs%20Download%20Page.htm

Based on the things i've seen him make this should be a good app. If it works for you please send him a "thank you"!

[tony_mac]

Your new ShopBot will be supplied with PartWorks 3D (and PartWorks) and this software will machine 3D models created in Blender as Paco said.

Good luck and have fun!

Tony

[carter_beck]

Thanks to all. I have reviewed the patch from nelson, it looks good. I am looking forward to it!