3d software

[dan_cooper]

I am trying to create a true 4d file to carve with the indexer

can I do this with artcam or does this only create 3 d files

and if not artcam can I do this with rhino

[dan_cooper]

Another question is if I have a round or oval shaped piece of wood can I create a file to carve a name or relief along the arc of the object.

[dana_swift]

a 4d file? I think you mean you are trying to toolpath a 3D file with a 4 axis toolpath generator...

[gene]

As far as carving a name on an arc vectric i know will do it and i think the new partswork software should do it as well

[myxpykalix]

There was a post over in another forum for a utility called "Wrapper" that might do what you want. Not sure if it will work with a shopbot or not.
The normal indexer virtual tool will do what you want also.

[dan_cooper]

To claify my question
What I am trying to do is carve along the arc of a 3d shape not along the arc on a flat piece

[erik_f]

if you are trying to carve along an arc you just have to model the arc...rhino will do that...if you are looking to use an indexer that has nothing to do with a CAD program...you can model just about what ever you want in rhino if you are good enough with rhino. Turning something with an indexer (4th axis) requires special software. An indexer is much like a lathe but with a stepper motor that turns your piece for you while the other 3 axis of your machine function as usual.

[dan_cooper]

Ok to make it even more clear I will provide a little more detail of what I am trying to do.

First I have deskproto software for creating the cut file.

I have went in and revised the postprocessor so that it will generate a true 4 axis toolpath for use with the indexer.

What i need now is a way to make a 3d file that is full 3d and not a relief type 3d

and that brings me back to my original question can I produce a full 3d file with artcam or rhino.

[myxpykalix]

Are you trying to do something like this:
http://vectric.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=2920&highlight=wrapper
Where you basically are vcarving something into the surface of your arc,

Or are you trying to wrap an object around a column (for example) a grapevine so that the grapevine is above the surface? If so then i think you would consider that an "onlay" where all the material is cut away from the surface leaving the grapevine.