[RobSm]

Hi.
I am slowly getting to grips with Rhino with the error count out past Pluto...

But but here's what's niggling me..

OK - Rhino model of a stratocaster type guitar - it's got an outline, various pockets of different depths, contoured surfaces filleted edges and the like..

now it occurred to me that I'm not modelling for modelling's sake but to eventually run a process on a CNC routing machine.

So the question is given the same set up point is it more sensible to do lots of little models (or jobs ) eg the outline top - bottom . then the fillets, the the top surface then the bottom surface and run them sequentially - since the blank has to tuned over anyway.

Can this obviate the need to do a perfect complete model in Rhino which I've been trying to do always getting close then collapsing the whole thing through some error?

Can I just model the bits separately using the same origin? Then run them?

Sorry if I don't make sense - I have a headache.

Thanks,
Rob.

[ger21]

Depends on your CAM program, and how you intend to cut it.

[robertk925]

I use Rhino and Cambam (and an old version of Madcam sometimes). I model all of the geometry in one model, but put the geometry for each operation on a separate layer so that it can be exported individually. Makes it easier to keep track of things.

[RobSm]

Thanks for your info.

I appreciate the logic of keeping the one job 'together' and doing a layer at a time. I think that's where I was trying to lead myself )

As for my CAM programme - I am some way from even looking at one!

A friend said I can use his Vectric Aspire - is that CAM and if so a good one?

Thanks,
Rob.

[robertk925]

I have never used Vectric Aspire but I hear that it is easy to use. With CAM there are tens if not hundreds of options, it entirely depends on what kind of parts you are cutting (engraving, 2.5D, 3D, 4 axis, 5 axis), how much you want to spend (free to tens of thousands of dollars), and which interface you like best.

[ger21]

With your Rhino drawings and Aspire, you're only real option would be to bring in an .stl of the entire body, or a 2D drawing.

As I said, your CAM program is going to dictate your workflow.