I realize Carbide Create has a 3D simulation option, but a simulator in Carbide Motion would be helpful.
On occasion I have to cut non-square / non-rectangular parts. For example, today I had to place my wood at a 45 degree angle so I could cut a long piece that would not work if placed horizontally on the bed. (Using the hypotenuse allows for a longer cut).
Because of this, it was not clear if the spindle would cut in the correct location as the software represents the cutting piece as a square or rectangle.
It would be nice to be able to have Carbide Motion move the spindle / end mill without the spindle actually spinning. Having the spindle move along its intended path, say an inch (20mm) or so above the surface would let you know if if might encounter an issue before you make the actual cut.
So like a dry run? Could you set your Z above the workpiece to a safe distance and then run the program like normal? Not sure if you’re using a spindle or trim router, but you could just not turn it on. Yes you would have to re-do the Z once the program is confirmed. But for parts where there is an uncertainty it may be worth the extra time.
Paul’s got the right train of thought. We can give you the dimensions of the cutting area on Carbide Motion, but to visualize the exact profile of what’s being cut, you basically need to just run your program. Carbide Motion isn’t going to filter through thousands of lines, and figure out the exact movements to replicate or omit in order to generate the preview you desire.
For the simplest visualization, when you export your program, you could just create an extra contour toolpath that follows the outline of where you expect your part to be. Make the cut depth super shallow so it only needs to do one pass. Then run that as an air-job as your gut-check.
Thanks… not sure I follow that. All I’m suggesting is for Carbide Motion to do everything as it normally does, but without the spindle spinning, and above the workplace. It seems that would be relatively simple.