Geometric model
The first part of the process is to import a file which contains the geometric information for the model, make corrections to the structure of the geometric model, make any spatial transformations of geometric objects, create new elements based on existing ones, as well as adjust the visual attributes of an object.
Access to the elements of a model is gained through the model structure window, and by making use of the interactive on screen options.
The new interface of the system includes animated views and also multi-windows support facility allowing tuning of the display; this allows the user to observe the model in several projections simultaneously.
Working with the model:
- Stabilized import of formats: IGES, DXF, STL, VRML, PostScript, Parasolid text, Parasolid binary, Rhinoceros, Sprut Models, SolidWorks, Step.
- Unrestricted complexity of a geometric model and on the number of elements
- Full support of solid, surface, grid and curvilinear geometric objects
 Correct machining of gaps and seams between surfaces
- Analysis and automatic correction of faulty surfaces
- Spatial transformations of the whole, or parts of the model
- Measurement of a geometric parameter of a model or its components
- Creation of curves by projecting onto a flat plane, the external borders of 3D model or, its separate surfaces
- Interactive creation and controlling of coordinate systems
- Two-dimensional geometric constructions in integrated environment
- Simultaneous graphical and textual representation of 2D-objects
- Powerful facilities for the construction of parametric geometric models
- Geometric calculator
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The hierarchical structure of a geometric model
A geometric model in SprutCAM has a hierarchical (tree) structure. This is editable and can include solids, surfaces, meshes or curves. There are no restrictions on the number of objects in a model.
The objects can be placed within structured folders (groups). These objects in their different folders form the structure of the geometric model. This is exactly the same method that is used to store the files on a modern PC.
A workpiece (billet) can be represented by an extruded flat freeform shape (prism), as a cube (height/width/length), as a "freeform" e.g. forging or casting, as the result of machining in previous operations or, as material remained after machining by one or more tools of different shapes.
 Click on the image to see a screenshot of the system in a new window. |
 Window of model "Transformation"
The spatial transformation facilities provided, gives the user all the necessary tools for adjusting a model (move, rotate, scale, mirror, origin, orientation). See the image on the right - click on it for a larger view.
Import of a model
A geometric model can be prepared in any CAD system and be imported in SprutCAM using the file formats:
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IGES (*.igs, *.iges)
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DXF (*.dxf)
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STL (*.stl)
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VRML (*.wrl)
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PostScript (*.ps, *.eps)
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Parasolid text (*.x_t, *.xmt_txt)
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Parasolid binary (*.x_b, *.xmt_bin)
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Rhinoceros (*.3dm)
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Sprut Models (*.sgm)
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SolidWorks (*.SLDASM, *.ASM, *.SLDPRT, *.PRT, *.SLDDRW, *.DRW)
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Step (*.stp, *.step)
 Text creation
Text for machining can be created directly in SprutCAM using any installed Windows True Type Fonts. The text is converted in curves which are used for machining on a flat plane, or projected onto surfaces. The text can be situated along a line or around a circle using various parameters.
See the image in larger size.
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