Some basic training

[dlcw]

I am going to be starting an introduction class on Partworks to the local high school woodshop class next week. I know how to use the software but was wondering if anyone has put together a simple 1 to 2 hour introduction presentation to using Partworks. The main thing I need to focus on for this class is importing DXF files from Rhino. In addition I would like to cover some of the ins and outs of compensating for machine flex, how to select proper feed and spindle speeds, some tips for working efficiently in Partworks, etc. The goal is to get these kids up and operating quickly on the machine. I got the machine running and tuned up yesterday so they are ready to go when the kids can develop models and toolpaths.

Any ideas/help/documents/examples you might have would be greatly appreciated.

I will also be teaching these kids a lot about basic woodworking from sharpening tools to tuning up power tools to joinery, etc. The current shop teachers' expertise is more in metal working so I'm helping him out with the wood shop.

[myxpykalix]

I have not watched the shopbot training when they broadcast it, but you might see if any of those videos are archived and watch them and maybe you can glean techniques and tips from that in order to formulate your classes.
Also shopbot might have ciriculum notes or work files they use in their classes that they might share? Also put a note in the (shopbots in schools" section as I know there are other teachers that frquent the forum. Maybe they would share some teaching aids they have?

btw...not all kids are college material and we need to teach these kids how to use their brains, in order to be able to use their hands to make a living, so you're doing a good thing Don..

[gc3]

why not show vectric tutorials for vcarve pro?

[dlcw]

Thanks Gene.

I kicked that idea around but they just run to long. I need to be able to push a lot of information about a lot of facets of Partworks in a short period of time. Once I can get this first part of their training done, then I can take some more time to do one-on-one with individual students who want to learn more.

I just worry that I would loose a lot of the students if I don't make it very applicable to their environment and current course of study. A lot of them are looking at combing the metal shops plasma cutting capabilities with the wood shops router cutting/carving capabilities. Inlaying metal projects in to wood backgrounds for instant.

[gc3]

well....gotta tell 'em rome wasn't built in a day......takes a little time investment to learn the software!

[bill.young]

hey Don,

There are a couple of PartWorks videos on youTube that might be useful for inspiration.

A very complete one was done by "Mr ArtStation" at http://youtu.be/rKZZYZ-GyfE

I did a much simpler one for a customer a couple of years ago at http://youtu.be/wSHQsthRajg

Neither of these use the newest versions of PartWorks and the newest Posts (I'll try to get mine updated before too long), but hopefully they'll still be helpful.

[GlenP]

Have you thought about contacting Vectric? Perhaps they have some less time consuming tutorials....then again most kids have internet at home, give some homework and perhaps have them do up a small file to bring into school and review in class setting. Not sure if downloading the demo will work well that way. Good luck and keep us posted on your success teaching the kids.

[myxpykalix]

I found some training info from some time back that might be helpful and relevant but it isabout 3 megs and can't be posted here so email me and i'll send it to you. Address in profile

[dlcw]

Bill, thanks for the links on the YouTube videos. I'm going to go check them out.

[dlcw]

Glen, Great idea on contacting Vectric. I've emailed James Booth and am waiting for a reply. I'll keep everyone posted.