[Jewelry making - Article 00273] - Re: [Orchid] CAD programs...

[Jeff Demand]

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Doug,

    	I'd say that a year is enough research, maybe lots of knowledge but
    no skills gained. These tools are very very complex, and using them
    is the only way to learn. There will always be more sophisticated
    programs tomorrow, but a  greater appreciation of them is based on an
    understanding of their roots. 

    	I don't want to reminisces about some of my previous software
    tools, currently I'm using Rhino and StlWorks to mill wax. Rhino is a
    very capable 3D modeler, creative flexibility depends more upon your
    skills with the program than its limitations. The learning curve is
    rather formidable and long but with work your collection of skills
    will grow. Faces are probably one of the more difficult objects to
    model, but I doubt that there are very many programs yet with a
    'FACE' button. Textures can be approached as fine details on your
    model. 

    	I use StlWork to generate raster type tool paths from .stl models.
    It works well, no surprises; probably around  mid range for this type
    of program in capabilities vs price. Minimizing tool marks is a
    combination of making small cuts and understanding the cutting
    geometry; on some models using a  rotary 4th axis will give better
    access for milling. Sometimes the machined wax is just a starting
    point for hand work... 


Jeff Demand
http://www.aztec-net.com/~jdemand 

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