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03-08-2009 #1
What workflow are you using to convert your Sketchup drawings to CNC ?
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03-08-2009 #2
In truth that's a big problem:exclaim:
There are some .skp to stl converters in the open source, but they are worth what you pay for them! not a lot.
I have tried CadSpan who were contracted by Google to write a stl export tool. It does work, but you need to be online to use it. The job is sent to their server where it is processed and a while later you get to retrieve the finished stl files in a zip format. It works, but I'd rather have an off line solution. BTW the basic tool is free, they have a 30 day free trial for the pro version, after that you pay something like $32 per month:cry:
There is another method I have used, this was to export the stl files to a rapid prototype 3D printer. It needs the geometry to be correct down to microns. :surprised: So this method is not recommended for that type of process.
Method: Requires MeshLAB, it's free open source.
1. Export 3D model, (it creates a .KMZ file) (this is a google zip format file)
2. rename extension to .zip
3. extract the .DAE file from the model subfolder in the model.zip file
4. Open the .DAE file in MeshLAB
5. SaveAS in .STL format.
6. Open the .stl in a suitable CAM tool.
Make chips
I wanted to stress that Sketchup is a wonderful Proof of Concept tool. Not recommended for model manufacture.
If you have other CAM tools, then use those. I have access to ArtCAM, SolidEdge, MasterCAM, and Alpha Licam. Not all of these will open the .stl format.
hth
JohnTemplecorran
Where the Light was kept during the Dark Ages
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25-08-2018 #3
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05-08-2009 #4
Yes ,,, well ,,,, :whistling:
I can get the model, but I can't get it imported into any of the CAM tools I have available!:sad:
So ... aahmmm
Challenge off :clap:Templecorran
Where the Light was kept during the Dark Ages
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05-08-2009 #5
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06-08-2009 #6
Just ordered some proper cutters for ali from cutwel - http://www.cutweltools.co.uk/,
6mm 2 flute ali power cutters - £7.00 each
3mm 2 flute ali power cutters - £7.00 each
6mm Ali power ripper cutter - £18.62 each
Stocked up on WD40 as well (easier than making my own!)
Asked them about the K2 coated carbide throw away's and they are still doing them at £2.50 (up to 7.9mm dia) so ordered some of those as well.
Will let you know tomorrow how i get on.
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06-08-2009 #7
Yes, I'm sure it does. The thing is, most of us are allergic to spending money. Exporting .DXF files is only the start of the trouble.
It's the import of that into the CAM engine to generate the G Code.
All the tools I tried, got tangled up in knots.
admittedly I really don't know how to drive MasterCAM. ArtCam took in the dxf and flattened it! It doesn't import STL files.
I know that I can model it in such a way for the likes of ACE converter Or G-Scriber to make. I hoped there was a tool available to me that could take the 3D model and dump out G Code.
NOTE to Moderator: This thread has gone way off topic. Could one of you put it some place more suitable? Please?Templecorran
Where the Light was kept during the Dark Ages
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06-08-2009 #8
Dave, please re-read the first post. I used Sketchup to model the conceptual designs and copied it over to AutoCAD to be machined. At no time have I suggested that sketchup files can be machined (with mills or routers) into models.
Yes, I have said that I used Sketchup to create a model; but that was for a rapid prototype 3D printer.
The workflow as listed in post #3 was for the 3D printer.
So to answer your question in post #6: Forget sketchup for model making.Templecorran
Where the Light was kept during the Dark Ages
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07-08-2009 #9
* Moved to CAD/CAM section, OP left in DIY section.
.Me
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07-08-2009 #10
Here you go.
A plug in to go from Sketchup directly into Cambam.
http://www.cerebralmeltdown.com/cncs...cambam_export/
.John S -
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