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  1. #1
    Join Date
    Feb 2008
    Posts
    30

    Question really basic question- scaling 3D shape?

    I have a question that is probably quite basic to anyone who has CNC experience: if I have a program for a three-dimensional shape (say, a Volkswagen Bug), can I mill out a large model a foot long and a small one an inch long?

    I'm interested in creating some models for an N-scale model railroad. At 1:160th scale, details are easier to check if I create a larger protype first. Also I may want to make the same model in 1/87th scale.

    So, can 'average' hobby-grade CNC software scale a complex shape up or down?

    Thank you.

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Mar 2003
    Posts
    35538
    Depending on the format, you should be able to scale it in either a CAD or CAM program.
    Gerry

    UCCNC 2017 Screenset
    http://www.thecncwoodworker.com/2017.html

    Mach3 2010 Screenset
    http://www.thecncwoodworker.com/2010.html

    JointCAM - CNC Dovetails & Box Joints
    http://www.g-forcecnc.com/jointcam.html

    (Note: The opinions expressed in this post are my own and are not necessarily those of CNCzone and its management)

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Feb 2008
    Posts
    30
    Thank you.

  4. #4
    Join Date
    Feb 2009
    Posts
    2143
    With just the CNC code, it will be more difficult. If you have the source 3D model, and created the code in CAM, then it is pretty easy.

  5. #5
    Join Date
    Mar 2003
    Posts
    35538
    Oops, I guess I misread that. If all you have is the g-code, it is possible to scale it with a control like Mach3, but you won't get as good of a result as if you scale it in CAD or CAM.
    Gerry

    UCCNC 2017 Screenset
    http://www.thecncwoodworker.com/2017.html

    Mach3 2010 Screenset
    http://www.thecncwoodworker.com/2010.html

    JointCAM - CNC Dovetails & Box Joints
    http://www.g-forcecnc.com/jointcam.html

    (Note: The opinions expressed in this post are my own and are not necessarily those of CNCzone and its management)

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