QCad CAM
30 Oct 2013 06:09 #40409
by Sterling
Well...that is exactly what I mean.
I can draw and move shapes on screen in the "work area" where I want them to go, based on the displayed coordinates.
You saw how I was doing them earlier (the post in ArcBuddy= how I would super-impose a drawing onto a computer made graph set in increments of .0312" then hand-type in the coordinates).
Since then I had been experimenting with Inkscape+makercam with a hit-and-miss success rate and I recently had downloaded HeeksCNC to give that a try since I the aforementioned programs have more 'guesswork' involved. Inkscape had the rulers, but the reference wasn't exacting enough and I found I had to load them in Makercam, compile, and test. Then when the etching on the board it didn't come out to exactly where I wanted it based on code I had already written, I would then reload the SVG into makercam, make the modifications, (hope they re right), compile, and test again.
Rinse and repeat.
(I have used Makercam for a couple images and then hand coded a few parts here and there to add what I wanted as needed.)
Fast forward:
I have discovered that with Qcad, that I am able to make a line/drawing, and place it where I need/want it on the table where it will not interfere with existing programming (for instance = a pattern of holes designed for a cribbage board).
Next, I intend convert my drawings into DXF files (using WINTOPO) and then import them into QCAD to see if it can export them.
I'm sure this ability is possible with other programs, but I'd suspect they are for purchase and I presently lack the funds to purchase them.
What do you mean by "draw an object EXACTLY where I want it to go on my table"?
Well...that is exactly what I mean.
I can draw and move shapes on screen in the "work area" where I want them to go, based on the displayed coordinates.
You saw how I was doing them earlier (the post in ArcBuddy= how I would super-impose a drawing onto a computer made graph set in increments of .0312" then hand-type in the coordinates).
Since then I had been experimenting with Inkscape+makercam with a hit-and-miss success rate and I recently had downloaded HeeksCNC to give that a try since I the aforementioned programs have more 'guesswork' involved. Inkscape had the rulers, but the reference wasn't exacting enough and I found I had to load them in Makercam, compile, and test. Then when the etching on the board it didn't come out to exactly where I wanted it based on code I had already written, I would then reload the SVG into makercam, make the modifications, (hope they re right), compile, and test again.
Rinse and repeat.
(I have used Makercam for a couple images and then hand coded a few parts here and there to add what I wanted as needed.)Fast forward:
I have discovered that with Qcad, that I am able to make a line/drawing, and place it where I need/want it on the table where it will not interfere with existing programming (for instance = a pattern of holes designed for a cribbage board).
Next, I intend convert my drawings into DXF files (using WINTOPO) and then import them into QCAD to see if it can export them.
I'm sure this ability is possible with other programs, but I'd suspect they are for purchase and I presently lack the funds to purchase them.
Please Log in or Create an account to join the conversation.
30 Oct 2013 06:41 #40410
by BigJohnT
That does sound like a lot of trial and error over and over. If you know the dimensions and the layout you can create it in QCad. The reason you use vector CAD for machining is each line and point is exactly where you want it. Any time you try and use bit map you will have errors.
Even a board like this one would be simple (for me cause I know how) to lay out in QCad.
Draw the lines then split the lines by how many points you want then add the points to end of each line. Just make sure you put each separate operation on different layers. Even with the curves being a different radius you split them all the same number of times and you end up with the board above. I can make a screencast if you are having trouble following what I'm talking about.
JT
Even a board like this one would be simple (for me cause I know how) to lay out in QCad.
Draw the lines then split the lines by how many points you want then add the points to end of each line. Just make sure you put each separate operation on different layers. Even with the curves being a different radius you split them all the same number of times and you end up with the board above. I can make a screencast if you are having trouble following what I'm talking about.
JT
Please Log in or Create an account to join the conversation.
31 Oct 2013 22:06 #40453
by Sterling
LOL, I'm just learning QCad, and it is with great humble that I confess: I have no idea what you are talking about. I figured out how to do basic shapes, but that is it.
If I could figure out how to import/draw the existing board outlines with peg-holes that I already have made/designed = that would be a great start, because I hope to import images into QCad to go as a decorative design.
Here is one that I did by hand - if I could figure out how to get the CNC to etch in designs, I would be a much happier camper!
...if you are having trouble following what I'm talking about.
JT
LOL, I'm just learning QCad, and it is with great humble that I confess: I have no idea what you are talking about. I figured out how to do basic shapes, but that is it.
If I could figure out how to import/draw the existing board outlines with peg-holes that I already have made/designed = that would be a great start, because I hope to import images into QCad to go as a decorative design.
Here is one that I did by hand - if I could figure out how to get the CNC to etch in designs, I would be a much happier camper!
Please Log in or Create an account to join the conversation.
Moderators: Skullworks
Time to create page: 0.109 seconds