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3d solids from dxf file

Discussion in 'CNC Mills/Routers' started by Jason Sanford, Apr 6, 2019.

  1. Jason Sanford

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    Im new here and new to cnc machining. Im looking to create true 3d molds for aircraft canopies... I was trying to import a autocad dxf file with a 3d solid into the openbuilds cam software to see if i could create gcode tool paths? But didnt seem to find anything... Im also looking to see if i should buy a workbee cnc kit? Can you cut true 3d shapes? And also as this part is very large xyz can your software tile the part or would i have to tile the project in another cad program? Thanks for any assistance you can provide!

    Jason
     
  2. Giarc

    Giarc OpenBuilds Team
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    I do not believe you can use a .dxf for a 3d object unless it is a flat plate. I use .dxf for pretty much everything I do, but it is all 2.5 d flat plates with holes, pockets, and counter bored holes.
     
  3. Alex Chambers

    Alex Chambers Master
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    3D DXF files do exist, but getting them into anything other than Autocad is a real pain. I haven't had access to Autocad for a very long time, and I certainly can't afford it now.
    Alex
     
  4. Jason Sanford

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    Guys thanks for the help!... is there a way to use some other software or format to get a true 3d shape into and cut by a openbuilds cnc machine? I have autocad at work... so is there another format that will work for import? Also can i use another cam program and still use an openbuilds machine.. sorry for all the newbie questions..:)

    Thanks
    Jason
     
  5. Alex Chambers

    Alex Chambers Master
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    I don't know what formats Autocad can export, but suggest you look at what formats cam software can import. I use Fusion 360 and there is allegedly a way of importing a 3d dxf into Fusion. As they are both from Autodesk there is a good chance of success. I'll try to post a link to the method tomorrow (on my phone at the moment - need my desktop for that). Fusion is free for non-commercial use and has cam features as well as cad. Lots of people here use it to generate G code for openbuilds cnc machines.
    Alex.
     
  6. Jason Sanford

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    Awesome Alex that's exactly what im looking for!
     
  7. jeffmorris

    jeffmorris Journeyman
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    AutoCAD and 3DS MAX can export 3D models to STL files.
     
    Alex Chambers likes this.
  8. HC.Carbo

    HC.Carbo Journeyman
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    dxf in fusion is pretty horrible slow!
    from max export in step or iges if can. NOT in .stl . Its easy to edit the model & make toolpaths from step/iges models

    oeps, i guess you don't have 3dsMax

    you can import dxf in blender(free) edit > export .stl then import in fusion in cm (to get the right size asap)
     
    #8 HC.Carbo, Apr 7, 2019
    Last edited: Apr 7, 2019
  9. Alex Chambers

    Alex Chambers Master
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    Going back to your original question are you planning on making canopies for full size aircraft? If so most hobby machines are very limited on their Z travel.
    Alex.
     

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