Multiple 3D pass?

Software
1

Can I run another 3D finish pass after the initial rough and finish to use a smaller bit over a selected area ?

For example…

  1. Use offset vectors to create a larger outline of a selected area that has already had a roughed and finished pass.
  2. Duplicate the initial 3D finish pass and choose to use the selected area only (that was created from the offset vectors).
  3. Change to a smaller bit and run the pass.

In the simulation this seems to work, but I haven’t tried running it yet because I was wondering about the starting bit depth. In the example above, because I duplicated the finish pass, I would assume that the bit would start running at a depth the same as the initial finish pass (somewhere below the zero point). If in the same example I duplicated the roughing pass instead, I would assume that the bit would start at the top of the stock again (or the zero point).

Has anyone tried this yet?

2

Yes. This is actually the best practice, esp. if using a tool which has a reduced cutting diameter relative to the shank.

3

Ahh, good. Thanks for the info.

In simulation it also seems to work by just creating a shape (circle, square, etc…) around the area you want to use a smaller bit on (instead of the offset vectors). I haven’t tried cutting either one of these examples out yet, but i may try it out on some wood later today before I go onto the real project which is silver.

thanks again