Low cost/free CAM solution for 3D relief

[KidKhaos]

I am just trying to reach out to some of you veterans out there for a little advice.
I built myself this here CNC router gadget.


Here is a picture when she was almost completed.

I am using an Arduino knockoff burned with GRBL to decipher G-code, mainly through UGS. Sometimes I run easel just to get the party started but as you know it is very limited. I typically use Fusion 360 for CAD/CAM, which works splendidly.
I have recently had the hankerin' to cut some 3D reliefs with little success. I have tried using MeshCAM since it seems to be geared toward this sort of thing. I have an STL file I bought to try to cut to the chase a bit but haven't been able to use it in Fusion or MeshCAM.
Fusion simply cannot handle it, the file is much too large. If I reduce it it loses most of its detail and Fusion still struggles to create a toolpath even if I were interested in using it afterward. The file starts out at about 3.6 million facets and Fusion will only convert about 50,000 facets into a solid.
I can load the STL into MeshCAM, but never end up with a working toolpath. I honestly haven't gotten a single working toolpath out of MeshCAM in any scenario. I feel like MeshCAM is meant to be a more user friendly program than Fusion but that has not been the case for me.

Feel free to drop any comments about your experiences here. I would love any advice about the current programs I am using, suggested software, ect. I would prefer free but would definitely consider paying for one if I felt it had value. I am not going to spend thousands... I know there is a better answer out there.

As always any help is greatly appreciated... thank you in advance!

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[dpot]

i use rhino 5 can you post the file mastercam normally handles most things it must be a problem with the stl file so need to have a look at it to help her is sum of my work so i am not just after the file https://www.thingiverse.com/davedpot/designs

[Lennings]

Try DeskProto, it can handle even very large STL files without any problem. It is easy to use, and the basic edition is completely free. See www.deskproto.com/products/free-ed.php
(this message comes from the manufacturers of DeskProto).

[MarcusWolschon]

I also suggest Deskproto. Detailed meshes like reliefs are where it really is shines. CAM software for technical parts (like Fusion360) usually can't handle this properly.

[ger21]

It doesn't get much easier than MeshCAM, so I'm guessing you are doing something wrong? Can you be more specific in your process, and what isn't working?

Multi-million polygon models can take a very long time when creating toolpaths, especially on a low powered PC. With the wrong settings, it can appear that the CAM program is frozen, or non responsive.

[MarcusWolschon]

That sounds like like a UX-bug in the CAM not communicating clearly that it is working and what it is working on. (Plus ability to Pause, Abort and maybe a progress).