Desktop, DXF file import..??

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Doug98105
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Desktop, DXF file import..??

Post by Doug98105 »

An I correct in understanding the dxf import in Desktop ignores Z coordinate values and assumes everything is in the Z0 plane?

For example, a dxf file of a line from X0 Y0 Z0 to X1 Y0 Z-1.0 seems to import as if the line was only on the Z0 plane.

Is there anyway to to import the example line into Desktop?

How about Vcarve Pro, will it import dxf recognizing the Z coordinates?

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Adrian
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Re: Desktop, DXF file import..??

Post by Adrian »

Have a look at the Vector Selection on the toolpath. There is an option for Z depth for imported vectors there.

ger21
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Re: Desktop, DXF file import..??

Post by ger21 »

Doug98105 wrote: For example, a dxf file of a line from X0 Y0 Z0 to X1 Y0 Z-1.0 seems to import as if the line was only on the Z0 plane.

Is there anyway to to import the example line into Desktop?
No, there isn't. You can't import a 3D vector, only 2D vectors on flat planes. And they all must be on the same plane for a given toolpath.
(You can import them, but not like you want, as you've seen)

This goes for Aspire as well. (I just tested it.)
Gerry - http://www.thecncwoodworker.com

Doug98105
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Re: Desktop, DXF file import..??

Post by Doug98105 »

Thanks for the replies guys.

Quoting below the update notes for V9.5 there may be a solution. Note the part about start z and end z differ. I think for my purposes a large helical arc would work as well as a straight line. I'll have to dig a bit into modifying the post processor.

"Helical Arc Support (V9.5)
VCarve Desktop now supports the output of helical arcs. These are like regular arcs when viewed in 2D but where the start z and the end z differ. They are typically found in toolpaths where ramping occurs. These arcs can now be ouput via the newly introduced post-processer variables:
FIRST_CW_HELICAL_ARC_MOVE
CW_HELICAL_ARC_MOVE
FIRST_CCW_HELICAL_ARC_MOVE
CCW_HELICAL_ARC_MOVE
FIRST_CW_HELICAL_ARC_PLUNGE_MOVE
CW_HELICAL_ARC_PLUNGE_MOVE
FIRST_CCW_HELICAL_ARC_PLUNGE_MOVE"
CCW_HELICAL_ARC_PLUNGE_MOVE"

ger21
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Re: Desktop, DXF file import..??

Post by ger21 »

Not sure exactly what you want to do, but I don't think that helical arcs are the answer.

If all you want to do is have a "ramped" toolpath, then try the fluting toolpath.
Gerry - http://www.thecncwoodworker.com

Doug98105
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Re: Desktop, DXF file import..??

Post by Doug98105 »

Gerry, is there a way to post images to this forum? If so I can show what I want.

Basicaly, a shallow depth 5 point star is the intent. The obvious way is to use the star shape provided in Desktop and vcarve it. The issue there is the depth at the center of the star is too deep. Plus, with vcarving all the edges are not sharp like in chip carving.

The intended effect could be done by a radial array of 5 lines representing the star from the outside of the star diameter to the center contoured with the center being about -.05" deep. Cutting those with a 120 degree v-bit gives a very shallow star. On dark wood the star would be a subtle effect only visible from certain angles and lighting which is what I want. This method has all edges sharp too.

ger21
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Re: Desktop, DXF file import..??

Post by ger21 »

The Fluting toolpath will do what you want.
Gerry - http://www.thecncwoodworker.com

Doug98105
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Re: Desktop, DXF file import..??

Post by Doug98105 »

Thanks much Gerry, fluting will work perfectly for what I have in mind.

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