General Software - Noob Questions

Software / Firmware General
1

Ok. So, I almost have my Lowrider4 ready for use.
Now my focus is turning to software and design…

From what I am seeing and reading, it appears I can use my Sketchup skills to continue drawing parts as I always have, and using the Extension “Unwrap and Flatten Faces” can export the DXF/DWG files. To scale. In 2D as needed without buying anything else.
Using the method shown in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7t-efITjUK8

Then, import those into EstlCAM for creating toolpath, holes, setting movement speeds, depth increments, etc. Exporting what it creates as a Gcode file to feed to the Lowrider 4.

And If I wanted to for example, cut a 1/4" deep channel 1’2" wide into the material, I would just mark those lines in sketchup where I want them in 2D, export that flat face, and explain what to do with that 2D face, inside of EstlCAM to generate the needed gcode.

Is that correct?

For example, If I wanted to make cabinets, and have samples of the material and the cabinet styles I want to make, I can draw them in 2d and save those as Components that I can then reuse over and over. Right?

If so, I can do the work 100% custom, and nobody will have my pieces and patterns, except me. (Unless they draw them again from scratch.)

Correct?

I see stuff like full blown cabinet building extensions, but those are more for cut lists and materials costing and industrial processes. My stuff will be one-off customs for pinch situations, infrequently, made using only my own unique styles and designs. So I feel like templating my own stuff would serve me just as well as paying a cabinet extension software subscription 55-75$ a MONTH. Especially at the raw beginner level. And the limitations on the lower tiers for those are unworkable even for smaller one-off projects/builds.

Am I way off base here? Am I creating bad habits? Am I going in bad directions? Dead ends that will result in failures and broken parts/bits?

As a raw CNC beginner, but competent maker and tech, I hope I’m even asking the right questions.

Anyone willing to clue me in a bit, it would be most appreciated. :wink:

2

Your proposed workload sounds correct to me.

I use a variety of tools, but sketchup isn’t one of them. Once you have the DXF file that describes in 2D what you want, you can use your CAM of choice. I use Estlcam myself, but the Fusion360 plug-in is also popular.

Once you describe the tool to Estlcam, it will create gcode for the tool path. The Estlcam basics page in the docs is a great place to start.

Mostly what you will need to do is dial jn feeds and speeds for your machine and the materials you work with. This can be a laborious process, but you’ll be making impressive projects in no time.

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