Engrave on a curve

[Mooser]

Hello All
I'm running X2 MR1
I've got a slightly curved surface (.365R) with an indented shape (.01 deep) cut into it (straight down, not 4th axis)
I've cut the surface with a 1/8 ballnose, (finish surface parallel) and need to cut this indented area.
I tried engraving but it only outlines and stays at a constant depth (machine depth) so it cuts deep in the center and very shallow along the outer edge where the curved surface drops away
I tried pocket but it says it's not on the construction plain

How do I approach this cut?
Thanks
Mooser

[TarHeelTom]

Originally Posted by Mooser Hello All I'm running X2 MR1 I've got a slightly curved surface (.365R) with an indented shape (.01 deep) cut into it (straight down, not 4th axis) I've cut the surface with a 1/8 ballnose, (finish surface parallel) and need to cut this indented area. I tried engraving but it only outlines and stays at a constant depth (machine depth) so it cuts deep in the center and very shallow along the outer edge where the curved surface drops away I tried pocket but it says it's not on the construction plain How do I approach this cut? Thanks Mooser

One way is with a spring loaded spindle.

Tom

[dertsap]

try doing it as a contour (3d) , set it from the tool center (d comp off ) and no lead in

[Mooser]

Hey, quick responses

I've used the contour with no comp. trick for engraving outlines but in this case I need to cut the entire surface down, like a 3d pocket

I'm trying a finish parallel with the contour as containment right now, and then a contour with no comp. but leaving material on the x/y to see if it cleans up the bumpy shape left from the parallel finish.

Grrrr, 3D pocket shouldn't be this unusual
Mooser

[Superman]

Try using "Pencil" , you can do single or multiple passes

This strategy is also good for finishing corner rads on a shape that has a different fillet on the floor, before going in to finish the walls with a larger tool

This is not limited to just ballnose cutters

[Toonz]

Using the 'Project' command, project the elements you want to engrave onto the surface. Once on the surface you simply use a contour toolpath in 3D mode and set the depth you want.