If any of you have read my previous posts, you know that I'm a beginner to CNC. I have many questions. The biggest mystery for me now exists as the magic that occurs between design work and the machine cutting my design.
I know I can design a part using a product like Autocad or BobCad. I know the end result of this is G code acted upon by the machine controllers. I also know that my rendering of a part does not factor in the cut a tool will make. I think there is software used between the CAD software and the machine that is used to create tool paths and G code.
I've been looking at a product called BobCad. It appears to be targeted at CNC type of operations. (As compared to Autocad which is targeted at a much wider audience: architects, civil, mechanical, electrical engineers, etc.). Does anyone use BobCad? If so, do you have any good or bad feedback regarding it's use with Shopbot?
Also can someone detail for me in simple terms the steps they perform to go from design to cutting and what products they use for those steps?
Example:
Design: Autocad
Toolpath: Acme
G code: Acme etc.
Any input would be greatly appreciated.
Best Regards,
Dan Hofer
DanHofer@Comcast.net