Importing DXF Format Drawings
The DXF format is a universal exchange format for dimensioned drawings. Torchmate CAD/CAM can import DXF files and once in the CAD/CAM they can be manipulated and toolpaths can be created. To bring in a DXF drawing the first step is to create one in another program.
Depending on the program the option to create a DXF may be listed under Save As or Export.
The program being used may have multiple options for which type of DXF to export as some will yield better results than others when brought in to Torchmate CAD/CAM.
Once the DXF is saved from another program go into Torchmate CAD/CAM, go to File > Import.
Once the drawing is placed the first step is to ensure that the part has been imported correctly. Go to the View > Show Fill.
Show fill displays the object as the computer sees it. If the object is filled in solid then it is ready to have a toolpath created.
If the object appears with a dotted outline this indicates that there is a gap somewhere.
There are a few methods to try to correct this issue. The first method is to select the object go to Arrange > Connect Path. The CAD/CAM will join any gaps within the prescribed gap tolerance.
If connect path did not correct the gap the second method is to go into node editing. Double click on the object to enter node editing mode.
Select any node and it will turn red. If the Tab key is held down the CAD will cycle through the nodes selecting each one in sequence. If there is a gap the cycle will stop and pressing Tab will do nothing. At any place there is a gap select the node, hold down right-click, this brings up the node options. The top middle option is join this will join the node with a nearby un-joined node. Verify with Show Fill that the part corrected.
Another issue that can arise when importing a DXF occurs when the drawing has inside and outside parts.
In this case the Show Fill can display each object as solid, the CAD/CAM simply does not associate the hole with the rest of the part.
To correct this first select all of the components of a single part. Go to Arrange > Connect Path this will tell the CAD to think of every object selected as one single part. Once the part is corrected Show Fill will display it correctly.
