Combining 3D .dxf and .stl into one model

[beacon14]

I'm finally trying my hand at some 3D machining more out of necessity than desire. I purchased Vectric Cut 3D and find it very easy to use. I downloaded a .stl file from the Vector Art 3D site, no problem. But I'd like to combine the .stl model with a block and border which I created in DesignCad. I can import the 3d .dxf into Cut 3D and machine it, but I can't combine the two models into one (DesignCad won't import the .stl).

Can anyone combine the two models and send me a single .stl or 3D .dxf that I can import into Cut 3D? Thanks in advance for any help.


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[gwilson]

If you want email it to me, I am wiling to try. I have Autocad, Inventor, and Solidworks.
Gerald

gwcad@frontiernet.net (mailto:gwcad@frontiernet.net)

[jsfrost]

David,

Vector Art 3D has vector outlines available for their reliefs. If the design you want will place the relief on a flat surface raised above the panel as your drawing suggests, use the vector outline and your usual design SW to create a raised flat shape with height corresponding to the desired relief depth positioned where you want the relief. Cut the non-relief design as usual, then separately cut just the relief with Cut 3D. This approch will cut faster than a complete design done as a relief, since the large flat area will not need a ball end bit and small stepover.

Jim

[beacon14]

I can't cut just the inner relief with Cut 3D because Cut 3D will machine the background of the medallion to the outside extent of a rectangular area surrounding the 3D model. That would machine into the raised border.


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Anyway, the power of the forum shines again. I've already had 2 offers and Brady has produced the result I was looking for.


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Thanks Brady!

[beacon14]

and the finished sample...

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[Brady Watson]

Looks great!

-B

[dray]

Thats sweet!! 1/8" ballnose?

[beacon14]

1/16" ballnose, .0094" stepover

1.75 hours machining
5 minutes sanding

[fleinbach]

Very Nice!

[jamesb]

David, that looks very nice. For anyone interested the inner leaf model is available here: http://www.vectorart3d.com/store/index.cfm?Fuseaction=Detail&ID=36272

[gary_n]

That is a great looking keystone, David. Surely you did some roughing passes before using the 1/16" ballnose?


Brady -- it would be great if you would give us a brief tutorial of how you combined the 2 3D images.

[Brady Watson]

Gary,
I used ArtCAM to pull in the various elements and exported the model as an STL. From there it could be imported right into Cut3D.

-B

[beacon14]

Thanks all, especially James and Brady!

Yes, roughing pass with 1/8" ballnose, .04" stepover, .03" allowance, less than 15 minutes.

The customer approved it today, now to make 5 more...