Multi Axis Milling From Mesh Data

[Anonymous]

Hello 🙂

So, I am encountering a few issues, I have researched a lot, but had no luck.

We often have STL mesh data from 3D scans which we require to generate cutting paths from in order to mirror physical models.

SO.....

The firstly I struggled with converting my mesh to BRep, I would get an error message saying that my conversion has been aborted due to the mesh containing a large number of facets. (We often work with fairly large files and interesting surfaces)

Then I tried after some research to reduce mesh Density, this failed due to an invalid input.

Then I tried a Remesh which also failed due to an invalid input. (I simply selected the scan mesh data) It is a closed mesh so I am unsure why I am getting these issues.

Then I researched and found that you can now create tool paths straight from a mesh, I tried this and had some success with 3D Parallel paths but unfortunately this does not utilise our multi axis machining and is not suitable for the types of models we machine.

Multi Axis machining however does not work as it says I have no valid Geometry selected (The data is selected)

So how do I get past the issues that I am having with reducing my mesh and then converting to BRep? Would this then eradicate the issues of no valid Geometry when attempting to programme paths to machine using Multi Axis Strategies.

Hope someone can help,

Thankyou 🙂

[seth.madore]

With Mesh geometry, you are limited to the 3D toolpaths that can "see" the mesh. That would be the ones like Adaptive, Scallop, Morph etc.

For Multi Axis work, you will need to construct planes and sketches to orient your tool via "Tool Orientation". Some people will make a faceted "disco ball" and select the correct face as needed.

It's not the best workflow by any means, and I do know that the devs responsible for that area of the code are certainly working on improvements for this. 

And no, I don't believe the true Multi-Axis toolpaths (Swarf and Multi-Axis Contour) will work with meshes. Rotary toolpath will, however.

[hansen.95]

@Anonymous Did you ever come up with a good solution?

3D Parallel strategy works great on my mesh model, except that the tool is always oriented in the same direction, causing the tool holder to crash into the steep walls of my part. If there were just some way to use the 3D toolpaths but keep the tool normal to the surface, I would be all set.