I'm trying to generate a g-code path around an image (Telecaster guitar body shape) in SketchUcam. I thought I'd be able to do it the same way my text query earlier. But I can't get anything other than the whole image (includes background white areas) selected. attached a scaled small version if someone wishes to have a go...
Image -> Open in Inkscape -> Right click -> Trace Bitmap -> Delete bitmap, keep the vector. Export the vector as SVG (Or DXF) a) Import DXF into Sketchup ([Plugin] FreeDXF Importer • sketchUcation • 1) and process using Sketchucam or b) Open the DXF/SVG in LaserWeb/CNCWeb Releases · LaserWeb/LaserWeb4-Binaries · GitHub - convert to gcode using the built in CAM
Yes, like Peter, I describe it a bit more detailed here I didn't use sketchucam in this example though, there are many ways to do this. Recently i've starting using Estlcam because it handles complex shapes like gears better than sketchucam does.
Excellent tutorial Gary! Worth a watch too! Always easier to just find / draw a vector than converting a Bitmap to a vector though Vectors are optimized as its already path data. Bitmaps was designed for displaying on screens. New - Guitar DXF files has a few Guitar shapes
Yes I agree, sometimes the image leaves you with thick vector lines that create strange and inefficient tool paths, fine for one offs or v-carving but not the best. Another way is to drop the bitmap on sketchup and draw over it, then you will have a truly clean drawing if none of the new DXF's Peter posted fit the need.
Thanks both - very helpful. I've downloaded a tele shape from Peters link but I'll have a go at my own file just to make sure I can do it!
