All=purpose software

[ljdm]

Most of the things I carve usually include either raised or vcarve text along with graphics, like patterns from Vector Art3d. Any recommendations on which program is best all-around for this? I know VCarve is good for text, Artcam for reliefs, etc, any good for both at same time? Basically, insert text, position it, insert pattern, position, set depth or height. The Designer program from Carvewright(although propietary)was good for that purpose, looking for something similar. Any info appreciated.

[Brady Watson]

VCarve Pro & Cut3D will do what you want. ArtCAM will do anything you could want with a lot more control, plus create 3D from scratch or a pic like the CarveWright software.

-B

[ljdm]

What file conversions are needed using Artcam to SB2? Part Wizard isn't an option available. After creating model in Artcam, save it as what type file for use with SB2? Any help appreciated, thanks.

[hines]

Artcam as well as other software packages have post processors that convert the files into SBP files.

[ljdm]

Damn.......been staring at this computer screen way too long today, missed the save toolpath screen. Another question though - which type sbp file? They list quite a few. Thanks

[Brady Watson]

Lou,
What version of ArtCAM are you running? Some of the newer versions offer additional post options.

-B

[ljdm]

Unless I'm just not getting it(very likely) - VCarve doesn't do 3D graphics, Cut3d doesn't do text. Part Wizard doesn't do 3D. Artcam is way too much more than needed. What else is there? I'm sure Artcam can do it all, just a lot to figure out. All I want is to place 3D graphic with either raised or carved text on same piece of wood, and be able to move, size,etc those items. Ability to import grayscale bmp a bonus. Meshcam kinda ok, too new, I think. Any thoughts?
Newbies to Shopbotting are a real PITA, huh?

[jamesb]

Lou, First off to clarify - if you want to take existing 3D models like our Vector Art 3D clipart and then add text etc. the Vectric products will allow you to do that (as I will explain below). if you want to create your own original 3D parts from 2D artwork then you need a program like ArtCAM Pro (or one of the many others you will find info on this forum about).

To take 3D artwork and then add the 2D or V-carved elements with Vectric software you can do the following:

Size the object, position it and create toolpaths in Cut3D. Save the whole part (File, Save As...) Now open Vcarve Pro and set up a blank part to work in. You can now import the file you saved from Cut3D (or VA3D Machinist - FYI) into VCP. It will be displayed as a preview which you can move around the 2D work area. Now you can add or import your 2D data and create the VCP toolpaths on it. Once they are done you can preview the whole design (2D and 3D) as a toolpath simulation. Once happy you can output all toolpaths for your Bot as an SBP file.

Hope this helps and does not add to the confusion


Cheers,
James

[ljdm]

Tried the VA3D Machinist route, problem saving toolpath.How do I save it so I can open it in VCarve(trial version)?

[ljdm]

Let me rephrase that - In Cut3D, I can only save as .v3d and VCP is won't open that ext file. Is that a trial version limitation?

[jamesb]

Hi Lou, You need to create a new file in VCP first - then IMPORT the V3D file (the import icon is the fourth one along on the top row). If V3D is not available to you as an import file type then my guess is the trial version may not yet be activated to open the Cut3D file. The current release Version 4 opens the file with no problem. Attached are a couple of images - one a screen shot from VCP showing how you can simulate the toolpaths together - the other the finished part - courtesy Oscar Garcia. Cheers, James

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[tony_mac]

Hi Lou,

The Trial version of VCarve Pro 4 will allow you to create a New file / open a design and Import the .V3D Cut3D file or .V3M VA3D Machinist files. But you will mnot be able to save and run these toolpaths on the shopbot.

A thumbnail preview of your 3D project will appear in the 2D view. Click twice on this image and it can then be moved / dragged to the required position. The toolpaths associated with this thumbnail also move to the new position.

There's a short video tutorial and pdf document on the vectric web site that runs through using 3D Cut3D & VA3D Machinist Clip Art files in VCarve Pro.

See > http://vectric.com/WebSite/Vectric/support/vcpro_tutorials.htm

I hope this makes sense and please drop an email to - support@vectric.com (mailto:support@vectric.com) if you have any questions we can help with.

Tony