Re: 3D DXF to G-Code converter?

Message: 14
Date: Wed, 06 Feb 2002 19:17:06 -0000
From: "jeffswayze" <jswayze@...>
Subject: 3D DXF to G-Code converter?

This may be an old topic, but I'm trying to track down a few 3D DXF
(or STL) to G-code converters to try out. I have ACE Converter from
Yeager Automation, but it does not handle the 3DFACE entity that my
3D program spits out. STLwork is another option, but at $400 it's
more than I want to spend.

I remember looking into software like this a year or so ago and
coming across some interesting shareware/freeware converters.
Unfortunatley my internet searches have come up empty. I remember one
in particular that was on an overseas website - Finland maybe? I
dunno.

Anyhow, if anyone can drop me a note with some options I'd appreciate
it. My goal [for this project] is to cut topological relief maps into
plastic or metal.

[I haven't seen any freeware/shareware that does an adequate job of this,
sorry. I've do have STLwork for a bit less, or you could look at DeskProto
Lite (free working demos of both programs are on their respective sites) and
Millwizard. I've used DeskProto to mill out USGS landscapes pretty
successfully, and either of these others should work just as well. The trick
is in converting them from the native DEM format into something you can work
with. It sounds like you've got this part figured out, if they are already
in the form of 3dface DXFs (what program are you using to get you this
far?). If you haven't decided on a material, I'd suggest Delrin (acetyl).
I've been using this lately and found it had fewer problems (fuzz, chip-out,
overheating) than most of the plastics I've attempted to cut. 6160 aluminum
will also work, but it takes a lot longer, since you have to cut it much
slower (at least on my machine).]

Andrew Werby
www.computersculpture.com