I have used Master Cam, Art Cam, Aspire and several others, of them all Bob Cad has to be the worst in all area's of use, not to mention the agravation of them calling you all the time to upgrade, try calling for help , good luck. I have a full set which includes their art add on. Not worth giving it away. Save your money buy 3D cut or Aspire.

Hi All
Having virtually no experience with CNC macines, I cannot really comment on the intricacies of Bobcad, I have used this software just for a short time on some 2D work and managed to get the machine cutting. My favourable experience was due to Als informative postings. At least he is out there circulating and knows his product, which cannot be said for other salesmen

Regards Neil

I'll take Leo's words any time of the day, every day of the year.

BobCAD CAM
 

1) All Mech Mate customers get special prices service and training. This is done though my department and with a promotional code.

2) I work in the partner products division of BobCAD as the manager, my #1 focus is on customer service and support. If you are interested in BobCAD CAM products and you don't want to deal with the shenanigans just work with my team directly.

3) Opinions about BobCAD which are negative always revolve around our sales team and the calling and not the product itself, that's why me and my team are hear to help.

4) Cut2D Cut 3D and the other vectrics products are great tools, if you choose one of those products I am sure you'll do well with them. Just like the BobCAD CAM software is good software and if you choose our product you'll do well with it!

5) I am here to help and I mean that, if any client or potential BobCAD CAM client needs help or service they can always contact me directly and I will help you, no strings attached.

Al DePoalo
BobCAM Team Leader
866-408-3226 X147
Cell - 727-479-6328

BobART Exsample
 

For those of you that want to learn more about the BobART Pro software and how it works, here is a great sample file to try out.

Emboss 2-Rail Sweep Basic Setup
This tutorial explains the basic setup and general process to create an Emboss 2-Rail Sweep using BobART.



When creating a 2-rail sweep you must first define the stock. This stock defines the area in which you can create an emboss. The next step is to create 2 rails inside the stock. These rails can be open or closed shapes such as two parallel lines, or two offset rectangles; and they can be 3-dimensional. The two rails must share the same chain direction. After creating two rails at least one cross-section geometry is needed. The cross section (width) must be drawn horizontally along the X-axis.




--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Important: You cannot use a cross section that is drawn vertically in the Y-axis. So, the start and end point of a cross section cannot share the same X-value. The width of the cross section is taken from the change in X-values and the height is taken from the change in Y-values.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------



When using more than one cross section the chain direction should also be shared among all cross sections. The start point of the cross section is connected to rail 1 and the end of the cross section is connected to rail 2. Once all of these items are created, the cross-section geometry is swept along the two rails to create an Emboss 2-Rail Sweep from the stock surface.



Basic Setup



Open BobCAD-CAM and click File, New.
In the BobART tab right-click Emboss Model, and click Emboss 2-Rail Sweep.
Because no stock is defined the Stock Parameters dialog box appears.

Set the desired stock parameters and click OK.

The 2-Rail Sweep dialog box appears. Click OK. The stock is displayed in the Workspace.

The following items are added to the BobART tree below Emboss Model:

2-Rail Sweep 1 - Add (Each feature is numbered and includes the Transition Type)

Rail 1-Geometry (Stores the geometry for the first rail)

Rail 2-Geometry (Stores the geometry for the second rail)

Cross-Section Geometry-1 (Stores the geometry for the first cross section)

Draw the first rail and the second rail inside the boundary of the defined stock.

Draw one or more cross sections in the Workspace either inside or outside the boundary of the defined stock.

Right-click Rail 1-Geometry, click Re/Select. In the Workspace select the appropriate geometry and click OK.

Right-click Rail 2-Geometry, click Re/Select. In the Workspace select the appropriate geometry and click OK.

Make sure the chain direction of each rail is the same. To view the chain-direction arrow, click the Rail Geometry item in the BobART tree.

Right-click Cross-Section Geometry-1, click Re/Select. In the Workspace select the appropriate geometry and click OK.

Make sure the desired chain direction is achieved. The start point of the cross section is connected to rail 1 and the end of the cross section is connected to rail 2.

Right-click 2-Rail Sweep 1 - Add, click Edit. The 2-Rail Sweep dialog box appears.

Select the desired parameters that are explained in Emboss 2-Rail Sweep. Click OK.

Right-click Emboss Model, click Regenerate. The Emboss 2-Rail Sweep is finished.




--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NOTE: Remember that every time a 2-Rail Sweep parameter is changed you must right-click Emboss Model, and then click Regenerate to see the changes reflected in the model.

This is what the CAD layout looks like

BobCAD Doesn't Work!!!!
 

Says Who? For those of you that need training get it! We offer lots of options to learn BobCAD-CAM, choose one and get cutting parts!

http://www.bobcad.com/training/in-house-training

“I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for the fine presentation and training in the BobCAD class. The interchange and insight spoke volumes as well as the participation by all. You seem to have a complete knowledge of the material and presented it in a fashion that was very understandable and informative. It was well worth the effort on my part to be there. I look forward to keeping in touch. Thanks again!”
Larry Tyler – Manufacturer

If there is anything I can help with please let me know.

Al DePoalo
BobCAM Team Leader
866-408-3226 X147

http://www.bobcad.com/articles/bobca...-released.html


The new version 25 BobCAD-CAM software has many added features to speed and simplify the programming process. We also added many powerful new Toolpath & CAD options. I wanted this community to know what we have come up with and I am looking for your feed back. I know the best of the best are on this forum and I value your opinions.

http://youtu.be/9o1BQTzGvGo

New Features
CAD
Preview
UCS Generation
Stretch
Unwrap
Stock Wizard
Rectangular
Cylindrical
Wireframe
Solid Model
STL File
Tools
Arbors
Holders
Cribs
Material Database
Multiple Machine Setups
2D Tool Paths
Facing Cycle
Pick Top
Pick Bottom
Surface Picking
Loop
Constant Z
3D Tool Paths
Adaptive roughing
Automatic flatlands
Advanced Simulation
64 Bit Version
Multi Core Processing


http://www.bobcad.com/demoall

BobCAD CAM V25
 

CAD Features:

BobCAD CAM V25 has an easy to use and understand CAD interface that will allow you to design your parts from beginning to end quickly. V25 will allow you to import DXF, IGES, STEP, SLDPRT and many other files from external CAD systems. You can verify geometry and edit your drawings on the fly by using a wide range of simple CAD features. Toolboxes have been added to make access to frequently used CAD functions easy and fast. Whether you import the CAD file or draw it in BobCAD, you have the ability to create inspection reports and part prints will full dimensions. Basic drawing tools include working with splines, creating arcs through points, drawing points, lines, arcs, bolt patters, gears, sprockets and roller cams to name a few. BobCAD offers a complete wire frame surface and solid model designing package. Viewing your parts, rotating 3D geometry and verifying all your part data has been made easy all the way down to bring able to choose the drawing colors or screen background of your choice.

Additional Features included

* Mirroring, Translate( move) and Rotating
* Unlimited Undo/Redo, Cut, Copy & Past
* Part Dimensioning
* Multiple part viewing and rotation
* Drawing with Points, Lines, Arc's, Splines, Fillets & More
* Complete Surfacing Tools
* Complete Solid Tools
* Verify Geometry, Trim Geometry, Layers and User coordinate systems


Milling:

BobCAD CAM is being used in a wide variety of shops for a wide variety of applications. This is due to the versatility of the program, customizable post processors, multiple cutting options and it's ability to create fast accurate toolpaths and CNC code. Whether you're doing 2D work or creating complex 3D parts programs, BobCAD CAM allows you to generate accurate toolpath faster, smarter and easier for less money.

CAM Features Included

* Stock & CAM Wizard
* CAM Job Tree
* Multiple Machine Setups
* Associative CAM
* Tool Patterns & Machining Order Control
* Tool Database, Cibbs, Arbors, Holders
* Pre Defined Material Database
* Speed & Feed Calculator
* Save & Load Tool Path Setting


CAM Tool Paths Included


* 2.5 Axis Drilling
* 2.5 Axis Profiling
* 2.5 Axis Pocketing
* 2.5 Axis Facing
* 2.5 Axis Chamfer
* 2.5 Axis Threading
* 2.5 & 3 Axis Engraving
* 2D & 3 Axis Plunge Roughing
* 3D Slice Planer
* 3D Slice Spiral
* 3D Engraving
* 3D Slice Radial
* 3D Z-Level Roughing
* 3D Z-Level Finishing


Productivity Features:

In addition to the many CAD and CAM features found in BobCAD CAM we have also added features that can only be found on systems costing thousands more. Our simulation software will simulate actual machine movements based on tool length, diameter, arbor & holder. Standard reporting tools for operations, run time, feed and rapid move length and stock left over. Giving you a complete view of how your part will be machined and if any tool path features need to be added or adjusted. Giving even the most novice of user the confidence to complete their programming and move on to the next project. In addition we included RS-232 communication for transferring you cnc files to the machine controller.


Training & Support:

With technical support services from BobCAD-CAM, you’re never on your own. We’re committed to your success long after your system purchase. Our technical support experts will help ensure smooth operation of your BobCAD-CAM applications day in and day out. 45 days of technical support is included for all new customers and is renewable thereafter for an annual fee. Assistance is provided by product and technical specialists trained to use and operate BobCAD-CAM products in a technical environment. Support for hardware or software systems on which BobCAD-CAM applications reside at the customer site is not included. Although troubleshooting an application in some cases requires us to ask questions regarding your operating environments. BobCAD-CAM support technicians are not responsible for network, operating system or computer maintenance.



Best Regards,

Al DePoalo

Partner Products Manager

Webinars
 

Learn about the BobCAD CAM V25 and how it works by participating in one of our weekly webinars.


Use this link to learn more:

http://www.bobcad.com/support/webinars


If there are any question that I can answer about the software feel free to ask!

Feature Profile: Internal Corner Types
 

When working with inside shapes that have a male mate it is necessary to relief the corner, sometimes...

http://s14.postimage.org/alsqops35/Top_view.png
upload pictures

( top view of mate )

A good example of needing this relief would be a door manufacture. If you are cutting windows in your doors for a stain glass insert you would need a relief corner like the about example.

http://s18.postimage.org/vth3x513d/S...ner_Result.png
image host

Example of a sharp corner result

http://s16.postimage.org/nryw31jp1/B...ine_Result.png
image hosting

Example of a bisect line corner result




How do you do this?

There are many options for creating this relief, drilling the corners, drawing a profile of what you want to cut, doing it manually....


How does does BobCAD-CAM do this?

BobCAD gives you options for your corner types.

http://s13.postimage.org/40ly1nebr/P...rner_Types.png
hosting images

Using our internal bisect line corner type you can create this type of relief automatically.

Watch this video to learn more: http://screencast.com/t/OJDVLGyi


To learn about corner types or other BobCAD CAM features feel free to call me.

The cutter doesn't need to go so deep to clear a square point:

Attachment 13433

If you watch the video it show how to adjust how far the tool goes back in the corner. So it's adjustable as needed.

User may just want to clear the corners, why give extra variable to confuse the users?

Once you know how to use the feature it's really not all that hard to use at all. Not to mention BobCAD uses machining templates that allows you to load default settings for common machining features used in your shop.

BobART
 

The BobART software is an add on for BobCAD CAM. By adding the BobART it gives you options to work with image files like PDF, AI, ESP. You can also work with raster images like, BMP, PNG, JPEG, GIF, TIF and many more.

So how do use use this. It's simple bring an image in, trace it emboss it and machine it.


Step 1 : Load an image file

There are 2 options for loading an image file.

RT Click on the BobART Manager

http://s14.postimage.org/rca51lk3l/L...ctor_files.png
img upload

Or

RT Click on Images

http://s8.postimage.org/tqv614gph/Load_image.png
upload photo


Step 2: Trace the image

At this point you have 2 options, you can vectorize the image or trace over it.

The result we are looking for is a wire frame out line of the part we want to emboss.


In other words we want to go from this:

http://s13.postimage.org/aktvg5ssn/S...sh_white_B.png
free image hosting

To This

http://s7.postimage.org/mhp30jx6z/Black_star_fish.png
photo hosting


How is this done? Well it's really simple! Use this video link to learn more.

http://screencast.com/t/RZbP6YBKrl4w

Step 3: Emboss it

Now that we have the traced image we want to emboss it, or give it thickness and depth. This is done using the emboss model features in BobART. You can take closed chains ( what we created when tracing the image) and emboss them. There are many options for embossing.

http://s10.postimage.org/b9299sdxl/emboss_option.png
upload photo


Use this video link to learn how to emboss with BobART

http://screencast.com/t/nGHN3a4v40


http://s14.postimage.org/s1gze8c8x/EM_Black.png
upload pictures


Step 4: Machine it

This would be your final step, cutting the part. What you are looking to do is create tool path for the embossed model.

The result would look like this

http://s12.postimage.org/s1wljb5bh/t...h_on_black.png
upload photo


Use this video link to learn more: http://screencast.com/t/KV901FkDE

Give it a try yourself!

BobCAD CAM V25 4 Axis Standard
 

Many BobCAD CAM clients that run a 4 axis have requested to work directly with Solids or STL files. In the past we only offered 4 axis indexing and wrapping so working with solids was just not a reality. BobCAD's V25 4 axis standard now offers 4 axis rotary tool path based off of solids.

So let's say you have a 3D solid that looks like this:



http://s16.postimage.org/ni4bwtks5/4_axis_leg_solid.png



Using the 4 Axis Rotary tool paths you have the option to cut along or around the model. You can cut with a Zig, Zig Zag or spiral pattern


http://s12.postimage.org/bxpt0ijrx/4...y_Patterns.png
picture hosting


The cut model ends up looking like this:

http://s14.postimage.org/s7gkrmzap/4th_axis_leg.png
photo hosting


Watch this video to learn more about the work flow: http://screencast.com/t/vuDyI3DAbQYL



We have also added a Tool Path Pattern feature. What this allows you to do is create 1 tool path feature or a series of tool path features and make an array or rotation or translation of those tool paths. This is a very useful feature all around, but when it comes to 4 axis is saves huge amounts of time.

Watch this video to learn more about the workflow:

http://screencast.com/t/yM7wqhxNO


http://s11.postimage.org/y7du14zj7/Pattern.png
picture hosting

Al, under many of your pictures there is an apparently gratuitous link to postimage.org. I can only deduce that this is advertising on their behalf?

Nope, it's just a free image hosting site I found.

Please refrain from that kind of advertising.

1) A 4′x8′ of MDF you can pick for about $35
2) A 3D photo of a cool pattern can be purchased of $0-50
3) A textured wall panel sells for $5-$15 a square foot

You could be making anywhere from $75-$395 machining these simple to make textured wall panels.

Step 1 Draw a 24″ x 24″ Rectangle
Step 2 Create / Modify Stock > 24″ x 24″
Step 3 Emboss texture> from image
Step 4 Re calculate
Step 5 Machine it
Step 6 Deliver to customer and get paid : )

How to Video Link:>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> http://screencast.com/t/UHFZz8Il6J8

with machining time and Router bit cost per square foot, what would a hourly profit be...

So you tooling might cost $35-$75

Shop Rate per hour $40-$125

Run Time for the Job 25 min - 1:30

BobCAD CAM V24 Nesting Software
 

BobCAD CAM V24 Nesting Software:

Standards

* Multiple part Import options
* True Shape nesting
* Support for Dados
* Global rotation settings for higher efficiency control
* Automatic drill hole nesting
* Automatic inside and outside profile nesting
* Use or Create multiple sheets of different sizes for the same job
* Part-in-Part nesting – smaller parts inside larger part openings
* Simple Job Setup strategies for tools, stock, parts as well as your lead-in and out operations for machining through one easy to use wizard
* Automatic radius and line lead-in and out for toolpath
* Set Part Priorities for nesting
* Tabbing
* Track parts and material efficiency as well as left-over parts and material
* Create stock margins and part-to-part separation
* Cutting Simulation
* Create and save tools and stock
* Layer support in Version 25 BobCAD-CAM software for easy control in machining
* Determine Cutting Patterns – Parallel or Zig Zag


Basic Nesting Sample:

Learn how to setup a single part for nesting with holes a dado and tabs.

http://youtu.be/yxJMmnqJOXw

Key points:

Using Shift Click for manual tab locations
Using Contour to set the start position of profile cutting.
Changing tool patterns to eliminate center drill from drilling feature
Using nesting files as a template for future nest.



We are offering a special MechMate promotion to add the nesting to your software. Please call me at 866-408-3226 X147 or PM me for more details.

If there are any additional questions about the nesting software please feel free to ask.

I am almost afraid to post.... So let's see what happens...

Hello Everyone!

Here are 3 videos to help you better understand key concepts of using BobCAD CAM to program your plasma machine.

This video goes over the CAD side of the software: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xgvJvD4XZ5A

This video goes over the CAM side of the software: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-VNa...&feature=share

This video goes over tool path patterns to create an array: http://youtu.be/S_G3msgYVRU

If there are any questions please let me know.

Bob,
You are always welcome here....even if some of the folks are a little biased!

Keep up the good work.

Best,
Sean

That is a helpful post to others. If you are trying to help, it is never a bad post.

V27 Relase
 

You asked, we listened! For our biggest release yet BobCAD-CAM V27 features many new enhancements and improvements that our customers requested as well as other useful tools we have been developing.


In this video I show you how the new line at angle work when you need a tangent intersection. There are many times when re drawing a part from print, the print doesn't give you all the information needed to create the drawing. Like when you have a tangle line to an arc with an unknown end point. This new feature allows you to draw an angle line tangent to an Arc!

http://youtu.be/zKFZGm-GIms


As a BobCAD users I am sure you have come to appreciate the CAM tree and how it makes quick work of storing and changing your part programming. Now that we have a CAD History Tree in V27 we offer the same flexibility for your designs. You can create solids and make changes quickly and easily. Watch this video to learn more about our new CAD features!

http://youtu.be/9wDdg5b9oxo

When working with wire frame drawings you may need to trim shapes into or out of each other. Because of this we have added 2D Booleans that use the same work flow as 3D Solid Booleans. The only different in the work flow is you have to rt click ok ( or space bar) after you select the first group of shapes. Again other useful tool for making quick work of creating wire frame profiles.

http://youtu.be/QvAmGUfl0Uc

In this video I walk through a sample 3D part. I use a sweep surface based on wire frame, and planar surface based on surface edges. Working with surface edges for design in a new feature in the V27. Once we model the part I lay down a roughing and Z level finish tool path. In the V27 Mill Pro we've added a Zig Zag option allowing the tool to cut back and forth following a profile, almost like a flow line. Once simulated, we go back to the model make some changes and update the tool path. Take a look!

http://youtu.be/crs9WOBT2NQ

In the BobCAD CAM V27 we've added many new tools for our Mill Professional users. Most of which are aimed to reduce geometry creation to limit tool path. Angle ranges, linking updates, leadin -out updates operational stock are just some of the new features. What this video to learn more.

http://youtu.be/DKgsSGWA2gM