Vectric Customer

A poor mans approach to getting a PhotoVcarve like finish using Aspire.

1: Import image into Aspire
2: Convert image to component
3: Adjust component height to .030
4: Draw vector line through you image at the angle you wish the bit to follow.. In the attached image it was 21 or 33 degrees
5: Create an array of the vector line generated in step 4 (spacing of the vectors were set to .040)
6: Draw another vector (square, rectangle, oval etc) around the photo
7: Using the scissors trim the vectors generate in step 5
8: In material set up check that the component your cutting is at the top of the material
9: Select all vectors generated in step 5 and pick the 2D profile tool path and a V bit (60 degrees in this example)
10 : Set cut depth to .001 and select Project tool path onto 3D image.
11: Generate tool path.
12: Preview

What a great idea! I knew I cheaped out with Aspire instead of PhotoVCarve
Takes a bit to trim several hundred vectors, but pretty cool! (Plug for next version - trimming multiple vectors at once )
I like this a lot - cuts quick for a alternate to lithophanes for special occasions!

Here's my test - my son's 8th grade graduation from last Thursday!

Good technique, but I think you could take it further. What if, instead of cutting lines, you cut concentric circles? Or elipses?

It may give you a unique photovcarve look.....
Tim

[quote]Takes a bit to trim several hundred vectors, but pretty cool! (Plug for next version - trimming multiple vectors at once

I like your thinking Ron as I use this same method to design checkering for gun stocks. It would be nice to have a border or vector trim in an update.

Hi Rick,

Thanks for posting this very interesting technique that works well.

Tip that eliminates the need to manually draw, copy and trim all of the lines,
is to use the Pocket Toolpath with a VBit Tool
Depth = 0.0, Angle = 22 and Project onto 3D Model

This should make it much easier and quicker

The key to this approach to specify a large Stepover for the VBit tool

Tony

Tony,

DOH! Thanks Tony, that will certainly save some time! Now why didn't I think of that...

You can do it with a 3D finishing toolpath to create the same thing. Use a V bit with a large step over.
Dan

This took 3 minutes to do.
1 import image
2 Create component from bitmap and set height to .04
3 Draw oval and select it
4 3D finish toolpath 60 degree V bit with .07 step over.
5 Preview toolpath
The credit goes to Rick. Great idea you have here.
Dan

Ok i have been playing with this tonight. I have made progress but not close to what others have posted. I will try and post the picture

I did this once before and am having trouble. anyone using aspire recently to do lithopanes ? I need some updates.. I have a lot of white solid surface and want to cut multiples in one file, I have not loaded PVC in some years and can go that route if I have to.

so I need
1) material thickness
2) file production method
3) tool parameters
4) toolpath setup

I am following these instructions to the t but not getting the results ?

Hi Jim,

You can email me the file and I'll see if I can fix it for you, then tell you what I did to do so. I think you already have my email address in your address book.

I found my old file and it was inverted, these instructions never mentioned it so I am gonna run a test . will send files later today

I can't get mine to look good either....

Getting it to look good in the preview or as an actual cut?