If you create wild things you should look at CNC Toolkit. There is a Yahoo group and Rinnea's own site. The Toolkit is a plug-in for 3DS Max and creates 3,4, or 5 axis toolpaths. A few guys are doing fantastic thiongs with it.( like inlays for pool cues!)
I don't know if solidedge will export in a format compatible with 3DS Max but if it does that may be the way to go. The Toolkit is free right now and there is a free version of 3ds Max called Gmax. I don't remember the limitations of the freebee.
I advise you to spend a lot of time delving and working with demos before you spend a few thou on a CAM program, you may not have to.
Everyone thought a control program had top cost 10 or 20 thou until Art started his Mach creations. It's world class now for less than $200! |