The Ship Model Forum

Hey,

Im new to CAD programs so I have many questions. I just got Solidworks 2006 to create 3D drawings to export to my CAM software.

How can I use my station sheet of my plans as a background and "trace" each rib using lines and nurbs? Please explain if that is possible. If it is tell me how.

Remember Im new to all this but I have figured a lot out through trail and error.

Now for my second question. I have the option of doing an assembley or a part. Can I make a line drawing for each rib (part drawing) and then use them to create an assembley?

I do not need a solid because a wire frame will work for my needs. But MasterCAM will also accept a solid so I would also like tips on creating a solid.

If I can get to the point were I can create an accurate drawing I can then export it into CAM and generate CNC programs for when I finally pay off my mill.

TommyL.

I have found that my other program Alibre will do this. Now I have to figure out a way to export each hull rib to solidworks.

TommyL.

Ok exporting ribs from Alibre to Solidworks can be done but they cannot be moved into possition. Ive tried doing this as an assembley but its not accurate.

Seems no one cares.

TommyL.

You need to take a class or two. Solidworks is no easy program to master. Nore is Alibre, which is better suited to making molds.

What are you trying to accomplish with the CAD CAM?

Im trying to learn this for when I pay off my mill. Then I can machine out hulls for myself.

TommyL.

What formats can the CAM software accept besides solidworks?

MasterCAM X can accept drawings from AutoCAD, Alibre, Solidworks, Rhino............you name it. Files supported are: .iges, .dfx, .stp, .step, .dwg, and more. Free Ship also exports usable files.

Ive seen that different CAD have simular options so post up some tutorials if you can.

In Master you can design and then set up toolpaths. I have been told to have more then one CAD system though because each has areas they do better then others.

This all seems like a lot of work just to create a .NC file for machining. If I was doing simple 2D milling I wouldn't need all this complex stuff.

Need to figure out CAD first then more on to CAM.

TommyL.

It takes time, so take it slow. Having an CNC background is a plus. I ran a CNC Plasma cutter before I got into CAD. Shape definition is based on the same type of input. But it gets easier with CAD. Check your local comunity colege for some AutoCAD classes. The basics are the same for most CAD packages.