New to carving using Aspire

[zaxis4]

I have created a panel using the modeling tools in Aspire. First, I created the border using a center line sweep to the dimensions that I wanted. Next I created the center raised panel using a 2 rail sweep. The result is what I was trying to achieve. The screen shots are shown below. Doing the rough and finish tool paths seem to calculate way too much time. I chose a .125 end mill for roughing and a .25 tapered ball nose followed by a.125 tapered ball nose to finish. This seems to be the problem. The finish tool paths are going over the entire surface and not just the perimeter and the small cove for the raised panel. I should be able to carve just the molded edges of my panel and leave the center flat without any machining on it. The error must be in modeling. I have not run yet because of the length of time on what should be a fairly short job. I'm new to Aspire....been using Pro for quite some time. Can anyone help?


       

[gerry]

You can use REST MACHINING when setting up your toolpaths. Works great.

Trophy with Rest Machining

[zaxis4]

I am familiar with REST and that is my modeling strategy going from .25 to .125. My question is "why" is the software trying to machine the vast area of flat in the raised panel? I would think that the finish tooling would only carve the cove and the molding trim leaving the center flat area untouched. That is what is adding up all the extra time on my project. I must be doing the modeling wrong to make the software calculate it this way.

[gerry]

Post your crv3d file or a link to it

[zaxis4]

Thanks for your interest. I finally solved my own issue. I first found that my profile was just a bit off.... long story there. Secondly instead of model boundaries I found that vector boundaries for this type of extrusion worked much better. I did try just using the molding tool and it was easier but....the REST machining gave me much better detail in less time, although it still took well over an hour. I am really finding the time factor in carving requires a lot of patience. I am used to just using a router table on the edges, mitering. and making a panel to fit. Probably a better solution here also. Any way thanks for your help.