Tool Paths

Computer-aided manufacturing () programs analyze your models or drawings, creating toolpaths from them that represent the motion of a cutting tool as it cuts the part. This is then processed into a set of instructions specific to your machine, telling it exactly how and where to move in order to cut out your part. Typically written in a language called “G-code”, they are the bridge between a part created in a modeling program (or an unaltered 3D scan) and your mill or lathe. The progr…

MecSoft Corporation has made it their mission to bring high-end machining capability to the world, at a price point far below other programs in the same league. The whole suite of programs they offer is called Visual /. It includes Computer Aided Design () programs including the free VisualCAD, that allows the creation and editing of curves, meshes, and solids, and VisualArt, which facilitates the creation of carveable geometry models from 2D bitmaps (and is now included in all…

MecSoft Corporation’s plug-in to McNeel’s Rhino 7 3D modeling software brings VisualMill’s functionality into the Rhino environment. RhinoCAM does everything that VisualMill does, while RhinoCAM Expert includes all the functions of VisualMill Expert and RhinoCAM Pro offers the full functionality of VisualMill Pro, from within the Rhino workspace. For someone who likes Rhino, wants to develop toolpaths for their Rhino models, and wishes to avoid the hassle of learning a new interface, the…

While it’s not intended for machining mechanical-type parts, DeskProto is an excellent choice for producing artistic, decorative, or jewelry items, as well as concept models. Unfazed by mesh files running into hundreds—even thousands—of megabytes, it generates toolpaths and the G-code that drives your router or mill very quickly, and boasts a range of powerful machining strategies utilizing 3, 4 or even 5 axes of your CNC machine. With various “wizards” to guide you in setting up such things as…