Generate G code from rhino file

[mredican]

Using Rhino v4.0 and I have created a 3d part. What I need to do now is convert this to gcode. I have tried gcode 2000, a plug-in called "gcode", and a few others. What I am getting out is limited 2d or just junk. I am going to try vetric cut3d and see if that can do the job.

What are others using to produce gcode? I'm also not sure if my DXF files are preventing these other programs from working right. I'll take any ideas and here is the file I made.

[mredican]

Here is the file:

[ger21]

In addition to Cut3D, you might also want to look at MeshCAM. For free, there's Freemill, but it's pretty limited. There are numerous other CAM programs costing much more money that will also work.

[mredican]

HA! I'll try this up load again:

[ger21]

Try zipping it if it won't upload.

[mredican]

I zip the last one but I'll give it another go....

[turmite]

Originally Posted by mredican I zip the last one but I'll give it another go....

mredican what diam tool bits do you want to use, what is your origin you want to use?

I am the reseller for Madcam, a cam plugin for Rhino and I would be glad to demo the software for you.

I would suggest roughing with a 1/2" ball endmill, do a finish with a 1/2" ball endmill, do a remachining with a 1/4" ball endmill and a final remachining with a 1/8" endmill. I haven't looked at the depth of the scroll yet, but if it isn't too deep, a pencil tracing with a 1/16" endmill would finish it out.

Mike

[turmite]

Originally Posted by ger21 Try zipping it if it won't upload.

Hey Gerry since you brought the zipping thing up, can you make it happen that we can upload native Rhino 3dm files? As many Rhino users as there are it would be nice to not have to zip those files, unless of course they were too large!

Mike

ps or do we need to nag Paul?

[ger21]

Paul.

[DareBee]

mredican - you can try a product called RhinoCam as well. It isn't free though.

In the subject of uploads you can add SolidWorks files to that wish list as well.

[mredican]

I am considering RhinoCAM.

I have fumbled with low end CAD to try and save a dime for a long time until I got to the point where I closed my eyes and bought Rhino v4.0. I am sooooo glad I did and I kick myself for not doing that faster. I just need to recover a bit if you know what I mean

I am wondering if my problem is the way I made my cad file? The project is a surface that is elevaded 0.22 inches on the Z. Do I need to convert this object into a solid or do I need to layer the object? I can generate gcode from simple dxf, like single lines and curves, in varrious z points.

[spoiledbrat]

With Rhinocam, you do not need to have solids to machine. I machine from surfaces all the time, with excellent results. It is also worth noting that Rhinocam converts all Nurbs surfaces to mesh while it is generating the toolpath. Whatever surfaces are higher (when looking at the Top Viewport) will be the surface the toolpath machines (this is for 3-D toolpaths). Of course, you can also machine directly from curves, using the 2.5D machining strategies.

Hurry up and recover from your expenditure, you really need to get your hands on this great software. Then, you will only be limited by your creativity.

Cheers,

Rob