What is Visual ToolPath?
Visual Toolpath is a 3D machining program designed specifically for the educational user. It has been conceived by TechSoft to meet the 3D manufacturing needs of students and teachers.
How does Visual ToolPath work? Having designed your 3D masterpiece (in SolidWorks, Pro/DESKTOP, etc.) you may well want to manufacture it on your router or milling machine. To do this you need to transfer the 3D file from your design software to the Visual Toolpath software. The effective standard for 3D data transfer is the STL file format, so you simply save the file in STL format in your design software and then open it in Visual Toolpath. You then follow a simple wizard to automatically create the tool paths needed to machine the model. It really is as simple as that.
Is there a simulation? A manufacturing simulation is not only for entertainment, it can be an important part of the manufacturing process. Whilst it is possible to skip this stage if you wish, the simulation can be used to see if “silly” values have been accidentally set for depths of cut, number of passes, etc. It also allows the user to get an impression of the surface finish and the time taken. Tooling values may easily be changed and another simulation run to see the effects of the changes. This is much easier and quicker (and cheaper) than having to remake the item.
Visual Toolpath has a built-in simulation, which shows the tool movement over the model as if it is being machined.
What about multi-sided machining? Some 3D objects can be machined from just one side (maybe a simple soap dish). However, many objects may need machining from 2 or more sides (maybe a bar of soap).
Visual Toolpath supports either 1, 2 or 4 sided machining. This allows the use of TechSoft’s self-centering vice.
The software has in-built routines to allow the user to quickly and easily set up the software when machining with the self-centering vice.
Why should I buy Visual ToolPath? Most 3D manufacturing software is very powerful but is designed for commercial use. It is not always as user friendly as you might like. Too many options and features can make the whole process complicated and confusing.
Visual ToolPath has been created specifically for educational users and is designed to be both intuitive and helpful.
Visual Toolpath provides the quickest and easiest route from design to manufacturing available.
