routing an inverted curve

[joepei]

Hi all,
I am trying to rout a path for poker chips. I used an inverted dome, but the outside rectangle tool path is cutting the full depth of the pattern at .75". How do I get the outside path to be at 0" or just below the surface?
Thanks Joe

[SteveNelson46]

I'm not exactly clear on what you are trying to do but I think you need to use a pocket cut.

Draw concentric circles. Each with a diameter smaller than the previous by just a little less than the diameter of the bit you intend to use.
Assign the bit on each circle to the desired depth.
Use the inset to compensate for the radius of the bit on the outside circle

In this example I made the first circle 1.5" with an inset of .063.
Each circle made smaller to the inside by .1". Intended for the 1/8" cutting bit.

If you intend to do this on a pattern or in a carve region you will need to check the "Conform" box on the toolbar.

[bergerud]

Is this a floor feather problem? What version of Designer are you using?

[joepei]

Hi, I can't open Steve's mpc with my version. i am running version 2.007. I do not know what a floor feather problem is? The cutter is cutting the assigned outline down to the bottom depth of the curve, so i end up with the trough i need but have a .75" deep groove all around the trough.

[bergerud]

The floor feather floors the boundary of the pattern down to the depth of the pattern. It is not what you want if the top edge of the pattern is supposed to be at the top of the board.

[joepei]

is it possible to get rid of the floor feather and maintain the curve?

[bergerud]

is it possible to get rid of the floor feather and maintain the curve?

Just uncheck the floor feather box.

[joepei]

Thanks! I really have to find more time to spend with this machine!!

[joepei]

next question, is there any way to adjust the curve to be round. it now has more of a tapered side than fully round.

[bergerud]

next question, is there any way to adjust the curve to be round. it now has more of a tapered side than fully round.

No, I do not think so. The domes are not circular, they are parabolic I think. If you do not have the 3d tools (extrude), we can make a pattern for you, just tell us what size.