Help with Lake Map

This forum is for general discussion regarding VCarve Pro
Post Reply
bbowers12
Vectric Apprentice
Posts: 73
Joined: Tue Nov 05, 2019 2:31 am
Model of CNC Machine: Axiom Basic

Help with Lake Map

Post by bbowers12 »

I am brand new to vcarve and CNC.

I am trying to cut out a lake map similar to this using vcarve desktop.
lake1.PNG
I have a lake vector file made from this.
lake2.PNG
The problem is when every I try cut this out like a pocket. I get something like this. I can use a v-bit and get better results, but I was looking for for that straight edge carved out silhouette look. At some point I would also like to inlay this into a cutting board. Can anyone help me try and achieve that look, what toolpath and configuration should I be looking at.
lake3.PNG
Thanks

User avatar
gkas
Vectric Wizard
Posts: 1450
Joined: Sun Jan 01, 2017 3:39 am
Model of CNC Machine: Aspire, Axiom AR8 Pro+, Axiom 4.2W Laser
Location: Southern California

Re: Help with Lake Map

Post by gkas »

You could get a more definitive answer if you posted your crv file. The reason your file cut as it did is that the size of the bit is too big for the carving. It won't fit into the missed areas. If you're using the pocket toolpath, you can check the box 'Show Advanced Toolpath Options'. With this option checked , you can check 'Use Larger Area Clearance Tool'. This will allow you to use your current bit as a clearance bit, then switch to a tiny bit for the detail work.

bbowers12
Vectric Apprentice
Posts: 73
Joined: Tue Nov 05, 2019 2:31 am
Model of CNC Machine: Axiom Basic

Re: Help with Lake Map

Post by bbowers12 »

I am using a 1/8 inch bit. How small do you recommend using.

User avatar
highpockets
Vectric Wizard
Posts: 3667
Joined: Tue Jan 06, 2015 4:04 pm
Model of CNC Machine: PDJ Pilot Pro

Re: Help with Lake Map

Post by highpockets »

Are you using VCP V10? The VCarve toolpath in V10 allows for multiple clearance tools.

If so I'd recommend using an 1/8" EM then a 1/16" EM and finish the fine detail with a 30° or 60° V-Bit. Only the very small detail areas will be left for the v-bit to cut and a little taper won't be noticeable.
John
Maker of Chips

bbowers12
Vectric Apprentice
Posts: 73
Joined: Tue Nov 05, 2019 2:31 am
Model of CNC Machine: Axiom Basic

Re: Help with Lake Map

Post by bbowers12 »

Something like this?
vcarve.PNG

User avatar
highpockets
Vectric Wizard
Posts: 3667
Joined: Tue Jan 06, 2015 4:04 pm
Model of CNC Machine: PDJ Pilot Pro

Re: Help with Lake Map

Post by highpockets »

Yes, but reverse the order of the clearance tools. It should go from largest to smallest.

If you plan on filling it with blue epoxy you might want to cut a little deeper.
John
Maker of Chips

BretC
Posts: 15
Joined: Sat Dec 30, 2017 4:14 am
Model of CNC Machine: CNC Router Parts
Location: Neodesha, KS USA

Re: Help with Lake Map

Post by BretC »

This is great thread.

I too want to do some old street and road maps. To this point, where can I find information on how to take a PDF or JPG to digital file to carve them with a CNC router.

Thanks!
BretC

User avatar
Adrian
Vectric Archimage
Posts: 14543
Joined: Thu Nov 23, 2006 2:19 pm
Model of CNC Machine: ShopBot PRS Alpha 96x48
Location: Surrey, UK

Re: Help with Lake Map

Post by Adrian »

BretC wrote:This is great thread.

I too want to do some old street and road maps. To this point, where can I find information on how to take a PDF or JPG to digital file to carve them with a CNC router.

Thanks!
BretC
The following tutorials all cover image tracing:

https://www.vectric.com/support/tutoria ... or_Drawing
https://www.vectric.com/support/tutoria ... or_Drawing
https://www.vectric.com/support/tutoria ... or_Drawing

4DThinker
Vectric Wizard
Posts: 1701
Joined: Sun Sep 23, 2012 12:14 pm
Model of CNC Machine: CNC Shark Pro, Probotix Meteor 25" x 50"

Re: Help with Lake Map

Post by 4DThinker »

Rather than pocket the lake outline try V-carving it. You can use any v-bit and set the depth. The open area can be cleared out by an end mill.

4D

4DThinker
Vectric Wizard
Posts: 1701
Joined: Sun Sep 23, 2012 12:14 pm
Model of CNC Machine: CNC Shark Pro, Probotix Meteor 25" x 50"

Re: Help with Lake Map

Post by 4DThinker »

If you want to inlay the map there is always the option to do a v-inlay. Not something there is a direct toolpath for, but easy enough to do if you know how:

Post Reply