Where to get started with 3d

[bpfohler]

I would love to start diving into some 3d but figuring out where to start is confusing.
First, what modeling software can I use to start creating some simple 3d designs that I can cut on the shopbot without spending a fortune?
I'm using VCarve Pro now but I assume I'll need a new cam program that will generate 3d tool paths?
Will my Shopbot cut in 3d or will I have to add features to support the 3d files?
I've been reading about inexpensive programs like Silo but most are using it in addition to another programs?
I not willing to put out 7K for Artcam at this point so can someone point me in the right direction.

[paco]

Robert,

if you're really just getting your hand dirty into 3D then start from the beginning. Get familiar with the 3D space and environment and with the tools there's available in each CAD, CAD/CAM and CAM package. Yes, some only model, some only toolpath 3D and some do both.

Once you've make yourself more comfortable with the CNC world, you'll soon realize that 3D CAM is not so hard to get. 3D modeling on the other need some home working first.

I suggest you study what 3D CAM you already got (assuming you already have one; say MillWizard) toying with demo 3D models. You may want to play with Vector Art 3D Machinist and the free files. You may just be routing your first carving in mo time with that! Download Vectric Cut 3D demo.

As regarding getting started into 3D modeling, get Google SketchUp and shape up a dog house, furnitures and what ever silly shapes. There's huge amount of learning material about SketchUp on the Internet. You may not be able to use the file you make in SU with your SB tool but what you'll learn in SU will serve you in other applications.
Have you heard about MoI (Moment of inspiration)? It's a NURBS based modeling software (like RHINO) but WAY more easier to use and very much simplify yet capable of complex designs. It's currently at it's latest state of beta testing so get the current beta copy to make your mind about it. I believe it'll be sold for a smile but you still have to be your own critic about it.
Silo is a subdivision (or mesh) based modeling application. It is easy to use and very affordable but the latest release (v2) isn't quite ready if you ask me... make sure you can have v1.42 or that v2 work on your system... try it before spending on it.

There so many other to discuss about but that's would be my chat with you about getting started into the 3D world.

The SB tools have all they need to make use of 3D toolpaths; all you need is models (from 3D CAD or models resellers), toolpath generator (the CAM part) and bits... ball end that is.

Hope that get you primed. Bot on!

[scottcox]

Robert,

I've been learning the open source "Blender" (blender.org) for 3D sculpting. It's very powerful, but difficult to learn. Luckily there are plenty of tutorials to help. It just takes time and practice to learn the interface.

From Blender you can output *.3ds files to cut in Vectric's Cut3D, which itself is very powerful, but also very affordable. Using Cut3D, I've successfully toolpathed several models that I made in, then exported from, Blender. It's been a smooth transition through the *.3ds format every time.

With powerful software combinations like this and my trusty shopbot, I feel like I can make anything now! And it doesn't have to be complex to be useful. Yesterday I sculpted a rear-end depression for a chair seat!

[billp]

Robert,
As Paco and Scott have suggested there are now many programs available which will let you design 3D files. However if you just want to TRY the 3D process there are also numerous web sites, and services which will do the design work for you, and at that point you can learn the CAM portion of the process.In fact you can find a large number of free 3D files to play with right on the Shopbot web page under "Support". Go there and look for the "CNC Resource list";
http://www.shopbottools.com/resourcelist.htm
This has worked very well for many other Shopbotters,and a number of them have realized that they don't have either the time, or inclination to do the design work. Once you are familiar with the process you can then decide if you want to do your own design work. If not you'll find links to a number of people such as (James Booth, and Grant Bailey) on this Forum who can take your concept and create a file for you...Just use the "search"feature and you'll find a lot of info on 3D.
Both Millwizard, and now Cut 3D offer very reasonably priced CAM packages which are capable of getting you started..