What's up with VS3D 1.6?!

[the_paco]

Hi Daniel!

Yes, I'm still having my eyes on VS3D...!

I just happen to refer your page to a friend and noticed that it was now 1.6 release... and I'm wondering what's new to it?

One of your fan Paco

[dcarr]

Hello Paco,

Thanks for the referral !

VS3D version 1.55 included more options on the G-Code output to make it compatible with more types of machines/controllers.

The main change for version 1.60 is the ability to export a fully-enclosed STL (triangle mesh) of a selected region, rather than the entire surface.

Here is the updated documentation for the related functions:

VS3D user's guide - section 1.1.3B

And also:

VS3D user's guide - section 1.1.7A

1.60 also has numerous other subtle enhancements.

[the_paco]

"1.60 also has numerous other subtle enhancements."

Which are...?

[dcarr]

"1.60 also has numerous other subtle enhancements."

Which are...?

1. Better retention of 3D coordinates when exporting (converting) a VScad3 3D model to a VS3D relief surface.

2. Changed the window titles on export file selection dialogs.

3. Slight improvements to the contour tool path algorithms.

4. Several internal changes (not apparent to users) in preparation for version 2.0 .

[the_paco]

"4. Several internal changes (not apparent to users) in preparation for version 2.0 ."

Aaaahhhhh, now Daniel, you got to tell us more about this V2 release... what's your projects about it?!

I know you software editors all hate when I do this... but I'll respect your silence if you prefer the suprise version...

[dcarr]

"4. Several internal changes (not apparent to users) in preparation for version 2.0 ."

Aaaahhhhh, now Daniel, you got to tell us more about this V2 release... what's your projects about it?!

I know you software editors all hate when I do this... but I'll respect your silence if you prefer the suprise version...

VS3D version 2.0 is still in the planning/preparation stage, so the full extent of modifications is not yet known. Features currently in 1.60 will be retained basically as-is. VS3D excells in 3D relief surface sculpting and machining. The main goal of version 2.0 is to add more rudimentary (simple) vector machining capabilities. The possibility of a Macintosh version of VS3D 2.0 is also under investigation. No date has been set yet for the release of 2.0 .

[Sapandy]

Hello Daniel,

I am new to this forum. A quick question: Can the VS3D output to a Roland RX-50 Spiral axis engraver with the required G-Codes. I think at the moment the only software that works is the bundled s/w that Roland supplies with this m/c - "Medal Editor' but it sure has tremendous limitations. I am scouting the web in the hope I can find something. appreciate a quick reply. Thanks. Sapandy

[dcarr]

Hello Sapandy,

Yes, I'm fairly certain that VS3D G-Code output will work with that machine. I've never used that machine myself, but I believe that one or more of my customers have.

PS: VS3D has a "spiral" tool path type that I use for coins & medals. I also offer free 30-day evaluation licenses for VS3D so you can try it out and make sure that it works with your machine before you buy.

[Sapandy]

Hello Daniel,

That's great news. I sure would like to try this out.
How do i get the Evaluation license.
I will download the s/w right away.
Do I need to email you.
I think i read that somewhere in this forum.
Thanks a ton.

[dcarr]

Yes, just go to this site to download and install:
http://designscomputed.com/vs3d/download/index.html

Then just email me the "Host ID" code that is reported when you start VS3D. I will then email back a 30-day key which you can enter at your convenience.

[Jkirk3279]

VS3D version 2.0 is still in the planning/preparation stage, so the full extent of modifications is not yet known. Features currently in 1.60 will be retained basically as-is. VS3D excells in 3D relief surface sculpting and machining. The main goal of version 2.0 is to add more rudimentary (simple) vector machining capabilities. The possibility of a Macintosh version of VS3D 2.0 is also under investigation. No date has been set yet for the release of 2.0 .

Okay, now you have my attention ! I use OS X and OS 9 for my sign work.

I have a Precix 9000 that only runs with HPGL. It can be upgraded to GCode, or so I was told.

I'd love to ditch the '98 computer and run the router table with OS X.

I know a guy who's working on QuickPath for both platforms but it's not released yet.

Does or will your VS3D handle HPGL a la Precix ? Fairly standard, I think.

[dcarr]

VS3D can output HPGL files, although G-Code is generally a better way to go for 3D relief surfaces. HPGL is typically a 2-D vector format, with each vector assigned a color which is scaled to the desired depth of cut. Typically, it is used for laser machines, or for cutting out 2D shapes.

Here is more info on how to output HPGL files from VS3D:
VS3D HPGL output