How to toolpath Solidworks

[Jeff the haas_guy]

I would like to know, in simple terms, how I can tool path a solid works file that I import from our engineering dept. I don't do any 3D tool paths,

I just need to know what to do so I can 2D the solid works file.

 

Thanks in advance

Jeff

[Jayson Kramer]

Well it is not as easy just do it. Have know Idea what the shape is so each shape will be done differently. but you can cut right from the SLDPRT file.

[Marshal]

With just doing 2D, you should be able to just follow the edge lines that are on the SW part. Make sure you have "edge curves" checked in the import options when you open the SW file.

[Pilot Plant Supervisor]

I just open the file in Mastercam then edge curve the geometry that I want to chain.

[Justin Beebe at Folsom Tool]

Jeff,

 

There are two ways to add toolpaths to a solid. You can chain the edges of the solid itself or you can create 2D wireframe on the edges of the solid and use that wireframe to drive your toolpaths. Creating 2D wireframe is my method of choice. There are a few options to create wireframe on your solid. You can import the solid with wireframe or you can import it without wireframe and use create/curve/one edge or create/curve/all edges. The basic principle is to chain the wireframe to drive your toolpaths and use the solid to select your depths.

 

HTH

[Justin Beebe at Folsom Tool]

Jeff

 

Some times you will have to create additional wireframe off of the solid as well as on the edges of the solid. Here is a picture to illustrate what I am talking about.

I imported the grey solid without wire frame then created all the red wireframe to drive my toolpaths. The wireframe for each toolpath is ceated on a seperate level and named so I can turn it on and off as needed. This helps keep the graphics area from getting to cluttered up.

 

HTH

 

[MotorCityMinion]

"You can chain the edges of the solid itself " No disrespect intended but...

 

You can either search the forum, or Google it. Either way the answers the same. The last thing a noob needs to try and do is chain from a solid. Move the solid to a new level and use the original curves created on import.

 

I always copy the curves I need to a new level, then use that for chaining. This keeps the original geo intact.