How to build a solid model with engraving letters

[tony2008]

Need help
Some time there is a case need to make a mold with the letter (like your name or a logo..)
extrude or engraving on any surface (like 3d surface, dome surface..)
with the height or the depth is .050" . I got stuck on this.
Thanks.
-tony2008

[Michael Whitten]

Hello tony2008,

Engraving on a 3d surface can be done a few different ways. The most common and simplest way is to use Surface Project. I would have a look at the samples in the mcx/mill/samples/inch/project directory. PROJECT - NCI.MCX and PROJECT-CURVES-BUTTERFLY .MCX are the files you want to look at. If these files are not there, you should install from the 2nd CD.

Extruding letters from a solid is a little more challenging. Mastercam does not have a direct way to do this as far as I know. You can still do fine though with a little extra effort. First, create different planes that match your part fairly close. You can then extrude your letters(add boss) up through your solid(face). You will then have just about what you need. At this point you can trim the solid to an offset surface that you should have created before adding the letters. You can also just roll the solid back and do it now.

Thanks

[derek]

Mike makes a good point: it is easier to engrave the geometry into the model, using toolpaths than it is to build the logo into the model itself. Let's take a look at machining engraved text onto a cylinder.
First, set your Z height to somewhere above the part.



Create letters: if you want to line engrave, pick a standard font, if you want to pocket engrave, select a true type font.



Create the letters in 2D form, use Xform /drag to move the letters to the correct location if necessary.



use a 2D pocket toolpath to cut the letters in space.



Toggle the posting icon to "off" for this operation. Posting "off" means that this operation will not be output to G-code.



Next: select surface finish project from the toolpath menu.



Set stock to leave as a negative value, this will be your depth of cut.



Set projection type to NCI and pick the 2D toolpath operation.



Select gap settings and set to 300%, this will make sure the tool retracts in between letters.



Verify the surface finish project operation to see the result.

[tony2008]

yes it is tricky on solid ,I will need do more practice.
It is great to do tool path project with the gap setting 300%.(now I have retract between letters)
Thanks for your help.