Re: Making a rapid prototyper

--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@yahoogroups.com, "Alan Marconett" <KM6VV@...>
wrote:

> It occurs to me the StlWork might do some STL to Gcode conversions

like RP

> requires? Something to do with water line?
>

StlWork has a slicer function that outputs DXF contour "rings". I
don't think it will do the internals. It should be OK for "solid"
models, but would not be useful for models that have one or more
hollow volumes.

> I was considering generating Gcode initially for a simplified

object by

> drawing the "layers" in Vector CAD/CAM. RP would seem to be the

INVERSE of

> milling a mold cavity. But you'd have to stay on the same Z level

before

> moving on to the next one. Hmmm, real intellectual stuff...
>

Vector has a function that calculates a planar slice through a 3D
surface model, based on the location of the coordinate axis. You
can write a Vector MTB script that will

1)Measure the vertical size of your model,
2)Create multiple incremental slices in Z, based on the height in 1)
3) make a "glue" path at each level that will start in the center
and proceed out to the outer contour (or vice-verca) without
stopping (in most cases even with islands), using pocket-contour
parallel.

That would generate a 2 1/2 axis, g-code file that could be used to
guide a RP head for glue, wax, or plastic deposition. The g-code
instructions can include flow start and stop, pauses, speed and
other commands needed to control the technologuy of the process.

Vector can also be used to add 3D sprues so that a supporting matrix
is created along with the part. (something you will need if the part
does not have a flat base)

Fred Smith - IMService
http://www.cadcamcadcam.com/hobby