convert splines to parametric

[#Rekd™]

Hi,

 

Could someone tell what is a "spline data" and how do you convert into parametric?

 

Thank you

 

John

[Thad]

What version are you running?

 

Thad

[#Rekd™]

Hi,

 

I currently have V9.1 level 3, I am expecting X today.

 

John

[Rob Dusenbury CAD/CAM CONSULTING]

If you convert the file to a VDA file then read it back into mastercam that will convert all nurbs to parametric. The only way I know of to do it fast.

[Thad]

I thought there was a way to do it in V9, but it slips my mind.

 

Thad

[Slick]

I've never seen it, I don't think it's possible.

I see parametric come in from CATIA all of the time, but never native. Why do you need them in MasterCAM? Couldn't you use Nurb Splines?

If you do figure out how, I'd love to know!

[Slick]

Very nice Rob. What format is VDA for if you don't mind me asking?

[cadcam]

Slick this should help that last thought for you:

 

The VDA (Verband der Automobilindustrie) file format is a German 3D standard. Mastercam can read and write VDA files.

Conversion errors are recorded in the convert.err text file in the Mastercam directory.

Supported entity types

Mastercam does not convert colors or levels. When reading in files, Mastercam places each set in the VDA file on a new level, up to 255. If there are more than 255 sets, Mastercam goes back to level 1 and continues writing.

Solid entities are written as surfaces.

 

The following VDA entity types can be converted:

POINT Single point

PSET Sequence of points

MDI Point vector sequence

CIRCLE Full circle or arc

CURVE Polynomial curve of arbitrary order

SURF Polynomial surface of arbitrary order

CONS Curve on surface

FACE Bounded surface

BEGINSET Set structure

ENDSET Set structure

TMAT Transformation matrix

TLIST Transformation list

[Guest CNC Apps Guy 1]

Let me ask this. What is the advantage of Parametric Splines over NURBS?

 

James teh Enquiring minds want to know.

[Thad]

Try Create-Spline-toggle to type to P-curves. Select the nurbs spline. You can go back and forth with this from parametric to nurbs.

 

I recall from our class (and with a little help from Steel Surgeon ) that nurb splines are preferred, but parametric splines can be edited/manipulated easier. I don't remember why.

 

I seem to recall that parametric splines go thru the points and nurbs splines use them as control points. This part is a bit hazy though.

 

Thad

[Slick]

I'll have to get back to this post later in the day... Nurbs/Splines - Parametric... Either it's too early in teh morning, or I need another Red Bull!

 

Nice call Thad, completely fergot about that switch too!