keith
07-18-2005, 08:54 PM
Guys,
I'm considering buying a ShopBot but have some questions that I hope someone can help me out with. My plan is to machine out complex 3D art (included converted BMPs) into wood and acrylic. I have tried this using a friends limited table top machine but needed to do 3 tool changes. Here are some of my questions, and I apologize if some of them are a little simple... :-)
1. Is it safe to assume that if the shopbot software can read the file in and we can see it in preview....then the Shopbot can cut it? I'd be using either Surfcam or Mastercam and both I believe have posts for the Shopbot. Just need to make sure before I make the investment.
2. I read that when using coated bits you can't use the z sensor. Is this true? If so, how does one accurately zero multiple tools for one part. Would the 'paper-under-the-bit' technique be accurate enough for 3 tool changes?
3. I'd like to program multiple parts and cut them all out at once (i.e. all with my roughing cutter, then change tools and cut all parts with a finishing bit, and then if needed a smaller finishing bit). If this can't be done manually, is there a way to copy and paste portions of the code to do this?
4. Do you regularly leave your shopbot unattended overnight, or at least for multiple hours at a time? Since the Shopbot would be in my garage or basement...it's something I have to consider.
5. And for a simple question....when your job is done will your Router shut off or continually spin? I'm assuming it would shut off but I have to ask...
6. Finally, is there anyone in the central NJ area (NJTPK Exit 9-10 vicinity) or an hour or two away that would be willing to let me see their shopbot in action? I'd like to see the machine, what's involved in setting it up, etc. I'd also like to bring some of the parts that I have cut on my friends machine to get your opinion on whether this is doable on the shopbot. I'll buy the pizza...and beer if it's after hours!!!!
For now...that's all. Thanks for your help!
-Keith
I'm considering buying a ShopBot but have some questions that I hope someone can help me out with. My plan is to machine out complex 3D art (included converted BMPs) into wood and acrylic. I have tried this using a friends limited table top machine but needed to do 3 tool changes. Here are some of my questions, and I apologize if some of them are a little simple... :-)
1. Is it safe to assume that if the shopbot software can read the file in and we can see it in preview....then the Shopbot can cut it? I'd be using either Surfcam or Mastercam and both I believe have posts for the Shopbot. Just need to make sure before I make the investment.
2. I read that when using coated bits you can't use the z sensor. Is this true? If so, how does one accurately zero multiple tools for one part. Would the 'paper-under-the-bit' technique be accurate enough for 3 tool changes?
3. I'd like to program multiple parts and cut them all out at once (i.e. all with my roughing cutter, then change tools and cut all parts with a finishing bit, and then if needed a smaller finishing bit). If this can't be done manually, is there a way to copy and paste portions of the code to do this?
4. Do you regularly leave your shopbot unattended overnight, or at least for multiple hours at a time? Since the Shopbot would be in my garage or basement...it's something I have to consider.
5. And for a simple question....when your job is done will your Router shut off or continually spin? I'm assuming it would shut off but I have to ask...
6. Finally, is there anyone in the central NJ area (NJTPK Exit 9-10 vicinity) or an hour or two away that would be willing to let me see their shopbot in action? I'd like to see the machine, what's involved in setting it up, etc. I'd also like to bring some of the parts that I have cut on my friends machine to get your opinion on whether this is doable on the shopbot. I'll buy the pizza...and beer if it's after hours!!!!
For now...that's all. Thanks for your help!
-Keith