[geoff3881]

I am trying to decide if I should buy Via Cad 2D/3D which has been recommended. I have downloaded the trial which has now wxpired but still seems to function (maybe limited)

My task is :-
1. Generate 3D model using Dev Fus CAM this gives me an stl file
2. Cut the model which is 1 metre long into sections. This is to allow me to
CNC mill the mold due to limited x axis travel. Still stl format.
3. Generate g code. (Freemill)
4. Machine ( Mach 3 software)

I have successfully been thro the above process for a trial, but without the
need to cut the model into smaller sections. I thought this would be very simple ! Is my inability to do this in the ViaCad 2D/3D software (trial) just because it's the trial version ? It seems to be OK for other simple functions
Any other help /comments appreciated.

[ger21]

My guess is that most CAD software does not have the tools for cutting up .stl files into smaller sections. It's not a simple function like you may think.

You'd be much better off cutting up the model and creating separate .stl files for each section.

[geoff3881]

Thanks for the comment.
I have already asked the Dev Fus Cam software people if I can cut the model into sections and the answer is no. To create separate sections individually would, I think, create blending issues.
I guess from the reply I would ask :-
1. Can Via Cad 2D/3D cut up the stl model.
2. Is saving the stl file in another format an option ?

[lovebugjunkie]

With my limited experience with different 3D cad programs I have never seen one that will let you do what you want. But like ger21 said it would be best to create different sections in DevFus before generating the stl file, and with DevFus creating the separate section of the model would be easy and fast.

[ger21]

I looked at the Dev Fus website to see what it is, and I can see why breaking it into section isn't really an option.

.stl files are just surfaces made up of triangular faces. Saving an .stl into a different format won't change anything at all.

The problem is that it's just not easy to slice them up.

You might want to download MeshLAB and play with it. It's free, and may work, but it's not easy.

Another option is a CAM program like MeshCAM.

MshCAM will let you load your .stl files, and create machining regions. So you can create g-code for each section separately. To accurately use the regions, they must be imported as 2D .dxf files.

You must have a pretty good handle on what you're doing, or it won't be easy. But it is doable.

[blowlamp]

If the STL file isn't overly complicated then you might be able to do as you wish by converting it back to a solid inside of ViaCAD.

Here's a quick video of how to go about it.

2012-04-29_1751 - Hammering's library

Use a similar process to change it back once you've done.


Martin.