====== CAM Software Testing ======


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This page details our experience with CAM software for use on the Multi-cam CNC. New platforms are trialed and documented here. The list of software used (or to be tested) is;

  * Enroute
  * Vectrics Aspire
  * Vectrics Vcarve Pro (makerspace edition)
  * Fusion360

For all CAM programs except Enroute we will need to find Post Processors and make a tool library.  


 ===== Enroute =====

This is the supplied and recommended CAM platform.  The version supplied was 5.1 - basic.  It has extremely limited functionality;

  * No drawing functions
  * Limited import functions
  * Buggy tool and path assignment

We have described most of the tools we use in the Enroute Library.

===== Vectrics Vcarve =====

Recommended by contractors who have worked for SLQ in the past.

==== Post Processor ===

Luckily the in-built AXYZ A2MC (MM) post is close - we compared it the the enroute version created our own modified {{ :facilities:fablab:equipment-cots:multicam_m-2412:the_edge_axyz_multicam.zip |version}} -refer to [[http://forum.vectric.com/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=24639|vectrics forum]] for a discussion.



===== Autodesk Fusion360 =====
 
==== Post Processor ===
According to this forum thread [[https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/computer-aided-machining-cam/help-with-post-processor-required/td-p/6443999|here]] {{ :facilities:fablab:equipment-cots:multicam_m-2412:multicam_aus_-_tekt_edit_b_14.zip |this}} post processor should work.


====ILLUSTRATOR & 123DMAKE TO ENROUTE==== 

Seeking to establish a workflow of design in Illustrator or 123D Make (exported as DXF) and layout/ and CAM settings via Enroute. here are my recollections a couple of hours later (figured i should get them down while it is fresh and we can edit/ improve later)

==== 123D Make - Enroute ====
=== 123d Make ===
  - import an STL model into 123D Make
  - adjust the dimension of the model to the size output you want. 
  - set material settings - dimensions of the plate and thickness, size of the tool you will use
  - choose construction method adjust number of surfaces/ shapes you want to cut the orientation of shapes etc
  - export file as DXF
=== EnRoute ===
  - new file 
  - set plate dimensions 
  - import DXF
  - Ungroup & delete markings, part numbers, bounding box etc
  - Select each shape to cut and create path offset cut settings? (set tool- feed rates, spindle speed etc; whether its an external or internal cut)
  - tabs on these cut paths (forgot this)
  - add fabrication features like dogbone fillets (drillholes)   
  - Prepare output - Set cut strategies, order)
  - Save
  - output to jobs folder
  - Connect to machine via file manager and push outputted job into the machine memory. 
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=== notes ===
I wouldn't recommend trying to do too much editing of the shapes in enroute. i'd import files into Illustrator or Corell and make edits to the shapes 
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==== Illustrator - Enroute ====
this needs testing but i image this wont be too different to exporting a DXF from 123D. one consideration is that you probably want to be careful which shapes/paths you are grouping as you are un likely to be able to separate these for different tool operations.


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===== Enroute =====

Ungroup holes before applying paths.  

When outputting with multiple strategies - untick 'Maintain Grouping' to ensure the rough passes are all cut first.

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