I've just within the last 2 weeks been trying to wrap my head around the workflow between using ViaCAD and then getting the 3d info to a CNC machine. It is a learning experience!
I've been researching the software (all PC), and most start @ $2k and go to $20K...wow.
And in the forums that I've visited there seems to be no real consenus on which is the best. (tho everyone has their specific needs).
My need has been trying to understand how you get the 3D file that is so carfefully modeled to the CAM software and then generating the G-Code to run the CNC machine (Hurco).
Are tool paths hard to create?(in the less expensive software?)
We currently have an older fellow who runs the CNC machines "old school" (a lot of manual input ). It's time to change that.
It seems alot of the packages are including the capability of actually "building" the 3D model inside the package and this seems to add to the cost significantly. If you are already using CU,Pro/E etc. I think you can get by without such features? And adding 3,4, or 5 axis gets pricey.
The link below sounds great but Gibbs is expensive! (read description)
Says it reads "in CAD data in other solid formats, such as this ACIS file, or CATIA V4 or V5, Pro/ENGINEER, and STEP AP203 or AP214"
http://www.gibbscam.com/solutions/solids-import.shtml#Seems like Esprit supports NURBS also:
http://www.chicagocadcam.com/products/3dmilling.htmlas does MAstercam:
http://www.mastercam.com/Products/Solids/Default.aspxWouldn't this mean NURBS surfaces are preserved and not faceted?
My 2 cents, and I'll keep following this usefull thread.
Norbert