CAD and CAM workflow notes

[TODO: add information about any CAD/CAM considerations specific to the machine.]

Topics:

• CAD - what is it, and what are your options
• CAM - what is it, and what are your options
• Post-processing your G-code for LinuxCNC / EMC2

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DISCLAIMER! This section is not intended to be complete guide to 2D/3D design or CAM, but rather a compilation of quality resources and knowledge specific to the CNC machine itself. The world of CAD/CAM can be a nightmarish rabbit-hole, but if you stay focused on your project(s) and buddy up with an experienced, friendly TC Maker member you can get stuff done easier than you'd think!

CAD

Computer-aided design (CAD)

2D

• Inkscape
• Fusion 360
• Illustrator

3D

• Fusion 360 (recommended)
• Tinkercad
• OpenSCAD
• HeeksCNC
• Blender
• Rhino
• Sketchup is NOT recommended, as it does not do a good job of exporting 3D models for use elsewhere.

CAM

Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) is a piece of software that as input either a 2D or 3D design file (made in a CAD program) and generates toolpaths for the machine to follow in order to carve that design into or out of a piece of material (called "stock").

In production environments CAM is taken extremely seriously and can cost many thousands of dollars and take a very long time to learn how to do well. The more efficient the toolpaths, the more parts you can produce per hour, which means more profit.

However TC Maker is not a production environment, so we don't need to as obsessed with efficiency. This means that we have a lot more (and cheaper) software options available. Though this is a bit of a double-edged sword - for every free, easy-to-use CAM package there are likely dozens that are pretty unpleasant to use and require a huge amount of overly-specific knowledge.

2D

• GcodeTools for Inkscape

3D

• Fusion 360