Importing 3D from AutoCAD 2000

[noisillator]

I'm trying to determine which software to use for my first efforts with a Taig CNC system. I'm new to both machining and CNC.

MeshCAM looks like it might have the functionality I need, so I installed and registered the demo version this evening. I encountered a problem right away when attempting to import an AutoCAD 2000 DXF file. The file contains the image below, an AutoCAD solid.

When I try to open the file, MeshCAM produces the following error:

"The file contained no polygons. Be sure that the file was created using 3D faces. Please see the manual for more information."

I went back to the GRZ software site, but haven't found a manual. How can I fix this? I'd like to evaluate this program before the current sale expires in two more days.

Thanks!

[ger21]

If it's a solid model, you need to export an .stl from AutoCAD. The only way to get an AutoCAD .dxf into MeshCAM, is to create your model with mesh surfaces, NOT solids.

Before exporting the .stl, set the FACETRES variable to 10. This is important!

[noisillator]

The only way to get an AutoCAD .dxf into MeshCAM, is to create your model with mesh surfaces, NOT solids.

I'm sorry to say, I don't know how to do that. Wow, there's a pretty steep learning curve to all this. Guess I'll miss the sale.

[ger21]

It appears your model is a solid, so use File > Export, and choose .stl format (Lithography)

Meshcam should load it fine. Don't forget to set facetres as I mentioned above.

[ger21]

Guess I'll miss the sale.

I'm pretty sure the sale will be extended.

[noisillator]

I'm pretty sure the sale will be extended.

Excellent! I just borrowed a book on AutoCAD 2000 with a large section on meshes. Shouldn't take too long to generate a mesh object like the previous solid for evaluation. Thanks for your help!

[ger21]

You don't need to use meshes, just export the solid as an .stl

It's usually far easier and faster to model using solids, unless you're really, really good. Really good.

[noisillator]

You don't need to use meshes, just export the solid as an .stl

It's usually far easier and faster to model using solids, unless you're really, really good. Really good.

You know, I tried that yesterday, but got an error from AutoCAD. It was really late, so I didn't spend more time with it. After reading your suggestion today, I tried this quickly at work, and it went off without a hitch. I have now resolved the error at home, and imported the STL into MeshCAM. Many thanks for your help; I'll make a decision on this quickly.