When I export DXFs from Rhino for our CNC fabric cutting machine, the machine processes the curves as individual line segments, not a continuous path. Then the blade lifts up at the the end of each segment so this is not good.
Also lines that are joined to make rectangles are still exported as individual segments. A rectangle drawn as a rectangle is exported as a continuous path.
Is there some sdtting that I am missing when exporting things to DXFs to keep lines continuous
Hi
You’ll need to convert your Degree=3 (and higher), curves in Rhino before exporting them as DXF/DWG.
Your Mill/Router/WaterJet follows G-code instructions. G-code supports three movements:
1 - Straight lines
2 - Clockwise arcs
3 - Anticlockwise arc
It’s your job to make sure you’re only send supported curves to the machine.
Lines, arcs and circles in Rhino are good to go.
Twisty Rhino NURBS curves need to be converted to arc chains. If you don’t convert them, they will be approximated by hundreds of short straight lines.
Since you need more efficient Arc objects in your DXF/DWG file, you’ll need to convert your wiggly Rhino curves to arc segments before exporting.
Use the Rhino Convert command.
Use these command option settings:
Output=Arcs
SimplifyInput=No
DeleteInput=Yes
AngleTolerance=0
Tolerance=0.01mm or 0.002"
MinLength=0
MaxLength=0
OutputLayer=Current
The tolerance controls how far the arcs will pull away from your NURBS curves. Your machining process and project will determine how much is OK. The distance is in current model units.
Then when you Export to DXF, use the “CAM Imperial” export scheme for inches and “CAM Metric” for millimeters. Both of these export simple geometry as lines and circles.
Always check your DXF file by opening it in Rhino before you send it for cutting to make sure it looks good.
Another option is to export using the IGES file format. Nearly all CAM applications support curves through IGES. Choose an appropriate IGES export option configuration for your CAM application.
Cheers
Wow thanks so much this is gold!