by AdPrinter » Fri Sep 18, 2015 1:55 am
Hi Peter!
Sorry for the delayed response, but I just don't get on the computer as often as I used to. The DXF file export of Corel you mentioned, does not work with MeshCam because it is not compatible with the AutoCad release 12 format MeshCam uses. If you are working with Mach 3, as your machine driver, perhaps you also purchased the advanced version of LazyCam Pro. I mention this, because seeing that you are working with Corel Draw, here is what I do as a work-around for the DXF file export's lack of compatibility: Draw the desired part in Corel Draw, at the desired size. Then use the File, Export, command, selecting the Hewlett Packard Graphics Language (PLT) as the export file format. This will preserve the drawing's actual size, with no scaling, so that it can be imported into LazyCam for tool path creation. When launching LazyCam, choose the File Import option, and scroll down the list, to select the HPGL *.PLT file format. The drawing can be imported in your choice of measurement units (Pels, or Inches). Personally, I always choose "Inches" to make things simple. It is important to note, that LazyCAM is a permanent beta version of software. And no future developments will be done. While it is possible to scale drawings imported into LazyCAM, there are no options to change the aspect ratio of imported drawings. LazyCAM is a very basic Cam program, but works well for 2D profile cuts.
Now, as for MeshCAM Art, Corel Draw works great, for creating the desired artwork to be edited in MeshCAM Art into a 3D relief. That is, Once you are able to wrap your head around the extensive color options available in Corel Draw! MC Art can work with up to 32 colors. Corel can produce MILLIONS of colors! So obviously, a method of controlling the number of colors used to create a drawing is necessary. This is an item, which I still struggle with comprehending at times. And the many interface options possible in Corel Draw serve as a major source of confusion. Therefore, I cannot recall the exact settings I use to export the artwork (at least not without navigating thru the many menus of Corel Draw, while also attempting to write this response). But here is what I do know: File format should be set to Portable Network Graphics (PNG), Transparent Background should be turned OFF, (unchecked) Interlace should also be turned OFF (unchecked) and the colors used should be set to RGB (as opposed to Corel Draw's default setting of Process Color).
This last item, is where the confusion comes in. Color Management, is a strength (and a weakness) of Corel Draw's use as a graphics design program. As it can be very helpful in the printing trades industry to do things like output image files for color separations in process, or spot color formats to produce the actual printing plates, or screens needed to print a job on a commercial printing press, or screen printer. The confusion starts, as soon as you begin to alter ANY of the default settings in Corel Draw. (Because Corel Draw attempts to "learn" your preferences, and will default to the last settings used, each and EVERY time you launch the program!) So, unfortunately - getting the settings just right for use as a MeshCAM Art design program does require quite a bit of "Trial and Error". However, once you (finally) get the colors set up right in Corel Draw, it really is an awesome program for creating the artwork needed for MeshCAM Art. Hope this helps! -Mike
