VCarve’s primary purpose is to generate the G-Code[1] that the CNC[2] routers require for operation. This G-Code tells the CNC router how to cut the various toolpaths.[3]
The typse of Toolpath include:
- Profile cut.[4]
VCarve can also be used as a rudimentary vector[6] drawing program with the ability to import files from more advanced drawing programs (e.g. Illustrator, Inkscape, CorelDRAW, Fusion 360, etc.)
Staff uses the Organizations tab on the customer portal to generate an invitation link for our users to join the new system. Once they have joined they just sign into the new Trial V12.0 of VCarve Pro, instead of needing the Makerspace ID codes. Additional help for staff
The free version cannot export usable tool paths. The full version is required for that.
CNC Router 1: Shop Safety is not required to access VCarve.
CNC Router 1: Shop Safety is required to run a VCarve file on an Open Works ShopBot CNC Router.
CNC Router 2: Laguna is required to run a VCarve file on the Open Works Laguna CNC Router.
.DXF files works best.
Objects from 3D software can also be used but they need to be flattened to create toolpaths.
It is important to select the correct type of toolpath and bit function for the job you are trying to execute.
A climb cut designates that the bit rotates in the same direction the tool is moving.
Climb cuts are the preferred choice for CNC routers at Open Works.
A conventional cut designates that the bit rotates opposite the direction the tool is moving.
Occasionally, VCarve will struggle to open .dxf files.
If you experience this error export your .dxf file using an earlier AutoCAD version.
2007/2008/2009 works well.
For the purposes of this guide we will use the following settings:
Job Type: Single Sided
Z Zero Position: Material Surface
XY Datum Position: Center of the Workpiece
Hover over any icon in VCarve to see the corresponding tool tip.
If you require more in-depth guides to drawing in VCarve Pro click here.
Your design is complete and open in VCarve!
If clicking on the outermost vector selects the entire design you will need to ungroup the vectors.
To Ungroup: select the entire design, right click > "Ungroup Objects" > "Ungroup onto groups layer"
You have successfully created an offset!
For more information on the different toolpaths please see the "Toolpaths" section of this page.
Spindle Speed should not exceed 15,000 RPM when operating the ShopBot PRSalpha.
Spindle Speed should not exceed 18,000 RPM when operating the Laguna Swift.
Plunge rate should be half the value of the feed rate.
Open Works recommends selecting "Climb" under "Direction."
With this setting your bit will perform a climb cut.
The standard 0.25'' for both "Length" and "Thickness" will be used in this demo.
The following pop-up will apear:
For a profile cut this is fine. Select "OK."
If you received this message for an engraving or a pocket cut, you would adjust your measurements.
You can preview the toolpath in "2D View" or "3D View" using the tabs in the upper left corner.
You have successfully created a profile cut toolpath!
Hold the "Shift" key while clicking to select multiple vectors at once.
Pay attention to the tool number you set for each bit!
Several passes over the same path with different settings may help get the best results.
Performing a toolchange between passes can also improve the finish.
You have successfully created a pocket clearing toolpath!
Under "Post Processor" select "ShopBot TC (inch)(*.sbp)" when completing a project on the ShopBot.
Under "Post Processor" select "G-Code (inch)(*.tap)" when completing a project on the Laguna.
Multiple toolpaths for a single project can be saved together.
You have succesfully saved your toolpaths! You are now ready to run a project!
G-Code: A programming language that tells digital fabrication machines the type of action to perform. ↩︎
CNC: Computer numerical control; a type of automated manufacturing process which uses
computer code to control machines. ↩︎
Toolpath: A series of coordinate locations that the cutting tool will follow on a CNC machine. Settings for each toolpath are defined based on a number of variables and the desired outcome. ↩︎
Profile cut: A type of toolpath for CNC machines that is used to cut the contour of a shape. ↩︎
Pocket clearing: A type of toolpath for CNC machines that is used to clear away large quantities of material. ↩︎
Vector: A type of 2-dimensional design format that uses equations rather than pixels to define an image. A vector can be scaled infinitely without loss of quality. ↩︎
Bit: The interchangeable cutting tool used in a CNC mill to remove material. There are many different sizes and shapes of bits for specific applications. ↩︎
Flash drive: A small portable storage device used for transferring files. ↩︎
.DXF: Drawing Exchange Format; a type of CAD file that is compatible with the CNC routers. ↩︎
Tab: A feature that can be added to a CNC toolpath which connects the cut object to the outer material to secure while milling. Tabs are removed by hand after the cut is finished. ↩︎