Re: Vector cad import

Elliot,

> Does Vector import solids?

I don't know, but I'm sure Fred of IMService will answer this one for
you.

> BobCAD can import IGES files,

Yes it can import IGES, but I believe it doesn't import surfaces or
solids, instead it converts them to a framework of lines and arcs,
which have to be re-drawn if you want to be able to produce useable
CNC code.

> The low priced Dolphin software seems very limited, is it really 2D?

Yes, the CAD software is 2D, however when creating NC Contours, you
can apply Z surface & Z depth data which the CAM software
automatically extracts when applying machining.
The CAM software however is 3D. This can seem a bit confusing at
first, especially when its linked to a 2D CAD system, but it actually
works very well. Essentially in the CAD you create an NC contour as
either a 'Contour' (XY) or 'Profile' (XZ).
When this is passed to the CAM software, you can Merge (3D) two
contours together, machine a contour with an attached profile (2.5),
rotate a profile to produce a core or cavity (3D), create surface
machining based on two profiles (3D), apply a draft angle (roughing
and/or finishing) to all area clearance or go-round routines (2.5D).
The 2D machining strategies are many and varied, but all very useful.
In my search through the different budget cadcam systems, I have
found that the ones that support 3D, do not import 3D geometry at all
well (this is also a problem with much more expensive systems!). This
usually means that extensive (or complete) re-drawing is required of
the imported geometry.
The Dolphin method however, because its based on more reliable 2D
geometry import routines, requires very little, or no re-drawing.
Yes I am biased towards the Dolphin system, I write CNC programs for
a living, and I use the Dolphin system for 95% of the programs I
create.
By the way, for mold work (the other 5%), using surfaces and solids,
I use Solidcam 2000, but that probably falls outside the budget being
discussed here.

> Can anyone recommend a low priced CAD CAM program with solid import
> capability?

I wish I could, but I cannot. I have looked at some that can import a
solid (closed surface), but not in a reliable manner, so they have
long since been consigned to my Recycle Bin.

Good luck in your quest, and please let us know if you find a
suitable system.

HTH

Dave Pearson