[Mkroe]

Cut2d will do inlays if you make a few adjustments. Setup a tool in your tool database. Example. If you use an 1/8" end mill (0.125), make the tool diameter (0.122), save this tool as a (inlay -004)

Now when setting up tool paths for the pocket and the profile use this tool. Cut2D will create the path for the tool as specified. This will in effect give you a 0.004 interference fit. By importing Dxf's or Ai files and using this technique I have managed to get some nice inlays done at a minimal cost of software. some materials call for a different offset but you get the idea.

Just a tip to pass on.

MK

[Tony Mac]

Hello MK,

I think it's important to point out that although you are successfully
using Cut2D to machine inlays, the software is not ideally suited
to this type of work.

When cutting female pockets and male inserts for inlays both the
internal and external corners need to be modified to allow parts
to fit together correctly.

For example, cutting a simple rectangle female pocket with a
0.125" dia end mill will result in a 0.0625 radius in each corner.
But Cut2D will profile around the outside of the male insert and
product sharp external square corners that will not fit into the
pocket.

VCarve Pro includes Auto-Inlay toolpath functionality that fillets
the external corners, and applying an allowance that will ensure
the male shapes / parts will fit into the female pockets.

Tony

[Mkroe]

Hello MK,

I think it's important to point out that although you are successfully
using Cut2D to machine inlays, the software is not ideally suited
to this type of work.

When cutting female pockets and male inserts for inlays both the
internal and external corners need to be modified to allow parts
to fit together correctly.

For example, cutting a simple rectangle female pocket with a
0.125" dia end mill will result in a 0.0625 radius in each corner.
But Cut2D will profile around the outside of the male insert and
product sharp external square corners that will not fit into the
pocket.

VCarve Pro includes Auto-Inlay toolpath functionality that fillets
the external corners, and applying an allowance that will ensure
the male shapes / parts will fit into the female pockets.

Tony

Tony,I agree you must use some thought in your inlays. My point was, cut2d is capable in making inlays. Yes it helps to use all radiused corners when doing so. Where as though, if you need to make the square One would only need to add the corresponding radius to the inlay square profile which Cut2D can do.

Again I do agree it is not optimal but with some effort one can do quite a lot with such a simple tool.

MK

[perseo]

Hello MK,

I think it's important to point out that although you are successfully
using Cut2D to machine inlays, the software is not ideally suited
to this type of work.

When cutting female pockets and male inserts for inlays both the
internal and external corners need to be modified to allow parts
to fit together correctly.

For example, cutting a simple rectangle female pocket with a
0.125" dia end mill will result in a 0.0625 radius in each corner.
But Cut2D will profile around the outside of the male insert and
product sharp external square corners that will not fit into the
pocket.

VCarve Pro includes Auto-Inlay toolpath functionality that fillets
the external corners, and applying an allowance that will ensure
the male shapes / parts will fit into the female pockets.

Tony

Tony, was very interested in your info, have cut 2d but considering to upgrade to Vcarve pro. I am a retired engineer and have recently purchaed a precision 3ft x 4ft router. Deparate to learn inlaying and would like info on training or books or anything that will advance my knowledge.
regards Perseo

[Tony Mac]

Hello Perseo,

There's a very interesting thread on the Vectric Forum that discusses an
amazing inlay technique called V-Inlay. This allows very small and detailed
pieces to be machined using V / angled cutters to engrave female pockets
and matching male inlays that fit together perfectly.

Attached is a PDF document that explains the very simple process.

See the Forum >

Also added some conventional inlay and v-inaly projects machined
by customers that might be of interest. The star shows how sharp
corners / detail can be incorporated, which is not possible when doing
conventional pocket + insert type inlays.

I hope this might be of interest and have fun with the new machine.

Tony

[perseo]

Hello Perseo,

There's a very interesting thread on the Vectric Forum that discusses an
amazing inlay technique called V-Inlay. This allows very small and detailed
pieces to be machined using V / angled cutters to engrave female pockets
and matching male inlays that fit together perfectly.

Attached is a PDF document that explains the very simple process.

See the Forum >

Also added some conventional inlay and v-inaly projects machined
by customers that might be of interest. The star shows how sharp
corners / detail can be incorporated, which is not possible when doing
conventional pocket + insert type inlays.

I hope this might be of interest and have fun with the new machine.

Tony

Many thanks Tony, your info provided the the essential trigger for me to order Vcarve pro. Have not yet found a source where I could obtain training.
Did contact Vectric but they were not able to help. Up till now have been using machine to produce gears for wooden clocks.
Regards, Perseo