I’m wanting to cut out a tree using multiple mills. The leaves and branches using a v-bit and the truck and larger branches with a couple different sizes of end mills.
What is the preferred method to do this. The tree only has one single vector. So, I’m not sure there is a way to box regions over a single vector. Maybe I need to break up the tree into small vectors?
I must be making this harder than it is… Ideas would be most welcome
advanced vcarve can do the main part with a single flat endmill, and a V bit for the tiny details.
if you have a “half each time” set of endmills, I’ve done some variation:
First I did an advanced vcarve with the bigger normal endmill
Second I did an inside contour with this same endmill
Third I did an inside contour with with smaller endmill
each progressive endmill will take care of the smaller and smaller endmills
I guess I need to understand the rules of Carbide. If I have one vector and start with the largest bit, it is only going to cut what it can. I get that. But when that’s cut, and I go to a smaller bit, does that smaller bit go over the area that has already been cut out with the larger?
if the 2nd bit is at least half the size of the first bit, you dont need a pocket, You can just do a contour toolpath (inside contour) instead for exactly the same effect at a lot less cutting time.
(this only works if the bit is half or more)
This is known as “Rest machining” — Carbide Create does not at this time have specific support for this.
You can do fancy geometry work to isolate the specific regions which would warrant using a smaller endmill, but as folks noted, using an Advanced V carve toolpath is the most expedient way to address this.
The other way would be to do this as a 3D model if you have pro — it will allow revisiting the design with a succession of smaller endmills.