5-16-2023 Q&A: Bowl with Feet, Removing 3D Model Outline, Parametric Designs, 3D Printing Software, Creating Sloped Edges, Recalculating Toolpaths, Blending Circles, Acrylic Cutting Tips

During our May 16th Q&A Meetup, we tackled an eclectic mix of CNC questions, providing a wealth of knowledge for enthusiasts at all skill levels. From crafting intricate bowls with feet to addressing the challenges of cutting acrylic without melting, this session had it all. We delved into the world of parametric design for wall art and lampshades, exploring software options for both 3D printing and CNC carving. Attendees learned about achieving sharp internal corners without resorting to a chamfer toolpath, the secrets to perfect 21-degree slopes on cutouts, and the nuances of Vectric software for blending and aligning complex shapes. Furthermore, we discussed converting photographs to 3D models and ensuring clean toolpaths for pristine projects. Whether you're navigating Vectric's VCarve Pro or Aspire, or experimenting with materials like acrylic, this meetup offered invaluable insights for elevating your CNC projects.

Questions Answered in this Q&A:

• 00:00:15 - How to make a bowl with feet?
• 00:05:31 - How to eliminate the outline around a 3d model?
• 00:07:07 - Is there a way of making parametric designs for wall art Or lamp shades in VCarve Pro? Or can you recommend a software that is free or cheap to do it?
• 00:14:06 - What software do you like the best to design in or to use for 3D printing?
• 00:18:36 - What's the best way to do a 21 degree slope on the edges of all the cutouts and be crisp and sharp?
• 00:27:19 - How to recalculate toolpaths on just the active sheet? How do we make the move to layer specific to pick their sheet? 
• 00:38:17 - What would be the best way to blend the larger circle into the two smaller circles at the two tangent points?
• 00:46:05 - What is the best bit to cut acrylic and what is the feed and speed if the material is half inch or more? What is the setting for perfect cut without melting acrylic?

Keywords:

bowl with feet, eliminating outline around 3D model, parametric designs, software for 3D printing, 21-degree slope on cutouts, recalculate toolpaths, blending circles, cutting acrylic, converting photo to 3D model, open vectors and intersections, Vectric software, VCarve Pro, Luban software, sharp internal corners, Aspire, chamfer toolpath, molding toolpath, acrylic cutting tips, feed and speed for acrylic, SketchUp integration, zero plane behavior