12-5-2023 Q&A: Axis Jogging Issue, 3D Model Download, Slot Widening, Laser Engraving Acrylic, Milling Near Z Limit, Tool Database Blur Issue, O-Flute Bit Toolpath, Text Carving Issue

In this Q&A Meetup, Kyle dove deep into CNC machining intricacies, offering invaluable insights on Vectric, Aspire, and VCarve Pro. Participants learned about jogging issues, converting files from millimeters to inches, calculating epoxy volumes for cutouts, and the distinctions between VCarve Pro and Aspire for complex modeling tasks. We also explored dovetail joint creation, importing digital 3D models, and leveraging AI for grayscale image generation. Practical advice was shared on adjusting slots to fit parts better, setting coordinates, fluting techniques, painting acrylic for laser engraving, troubleshooting toolpath and material setup, and addressing vector validation errors. This session is a treasure trove for both beginners and seasoned CNC enthusiasts looking to enhance their skill set and workflow efficiency.

Questions Answered in this Q&A

• 00:02:19 - Can't jog any axis.
• 00:04:45- Can Vectric, Aspire calculate the volume of the cutout material so that I can estimate how much epoxy to mix?
• 00:14:21 - How do I change the Vectric file from millimeters to inches using a quarter inch end mill and ball nose?
• 00:17:54 - I have VCarve Pro and I need to model an axe bat for turning on a 4 axis. Can I do this in VCarve or do I need Aspire?
• 00:21:02 - Is it possible to make a dovetail joint without putting fillets in the inside tail corners?
• 00:25:06 - How to download digital 3d model in a tix download purchased online and inport it?
• 00:27:02 - I see a lot of talk about using AI to generate grayscale images from 2D. Can you explain what it is and how we can use it? Some programs mentioned are Bing, uh, Create, and Carveco. For someone not having Aspire, how would this be helpful?
• 00:30:08 - I want to make open slots area wider to fit the legs as to save time on shaving down the legs to fit inside. The wood thickness of the legs are one inch. What is the best way to do this?
• 00:37:14 - Do you need to install WinRAR?
• 00:37:48 - How to use top, lower, left to set x, y, and z?
• 00:38:40 - How to make flutes?
• 00:42:31 - Do I paint the acrylic top or bottom black before using laser?
• 00:44:05 - Any recommendations on how to stretch slash mill a part that is right at the limit of the Z?
• 00:48:10 - I have a problem on my VCarve desktop with all tools get blurry when I try to select them. After and erase the tool database and install again, I can select them. When I start a new project, I have the same issue again.
• 00:51:56 - Want to make a finger hole to get the top off easier with magnets, Don't know what toolpath to use.
• 00:55:35 - Under toolpaths, material setup, what is the best Z dimension to use?
• 00:58:31 - What toolpath and material usually use for the O Flute bit?
• 00:59:40 - I made a simple text file I'd like to carve, but the bottom text is not correct and I can't figure out why. Vector validator is showing intersections. What is the problem? 
  

Keywords:

cnc, vectric, aspire, vcarve pro, universal g-code sender, jogging issues, epoxy volume calculation, file conversion, millimeters to inches, 4 axis modeling, dovetail joints, digital 3d model, ai for grayscale images, slot adjustments, winrar, setting x y z, fluting, acrylic engraving, tool database, finger hole toolpath, rapid z gaps, o flute bit, vector validation