Summary

GibbsCAM cannot directly import an image file and use the image itself to create toolpaths. Image files contain raster data, rather than the CAD geometry GibbsCAM requires for toolpath creation.

To use an image as the basis for toolpath creation, the image must first be converted into usable CAD geometry. This can be done using software that performs raster-to-vector conversion.


Table of Contents


Before You Begin

Before attempting to use an image for toolpath creation:

  • Determine whether the source is a raster image, such as a JPG, PNG, or similar image format.

  • Obtain software capable of converting the image from raster data into vector or CAD geometry.

  • Verify that the resulting geometry can be imported into GibbsCAM.


Cause

Image files contain raster data, rather than the CAD geometry GibbsCAM requires for toolpath creation.

The image must therefore be converted into usable geometry before it can be used to create toolpaths in GibbsCAM.


Procedure

Step 1 - Convert the Image to CAD Geometry

Use software that supports raster-to-vector conversion to convert the image into usable geometry.

For example, SolidWorks may provide functionality that can be used for this purpose.

Step 2 - Import the Converted Geometry

After the image has been converted:

  1. Open GibbsCAM.

  2. Open the GibbsCAM file where the geometry will be used.

  3. Select File > Import.

  4. Select the file format produced by the raster-to-vector conversion software.

  5. Import the geometry.

Expected Result

The converted geometry is available in GibbsCAM and can be used as the basis for toolpath creation.

Step 3 - Create the Toolpath

Once the converted geometry has been imported into GibbsCAM, use the appropriate machining process to create the desired toolpath.


Additional Information

GibbsCAM does not use the pixels or other raster information contained in an image as machining geometry.

The required workflow is:

Image > Raster-to-Vector Conversion > CAD Geometry > GibbsCAM > Toolpath

The quality of the resulting machining geometry depends on the quality of the raster-to-vector conversion.


Best Practices

  • Use a high-quality source image when performing raster-to-vector conversion.

  • Review the converted geometry before creating toolpaths.

  • Remove unnecessary or unwanted geometry before machining.

  • Verify that the converted geometry is suitable for the intended machining operation.


Troubleshooting

  • Problem: The image cannot be imported into GibbsCAM for toolpath creation.

Possible Cause

The image is raster data rather than usable CAD geometry.

Resolution

Convert the image to vector or CAD geometry using raster-to-vector conversion software before importing it into GibbsCAM.

  • Problem: The converted geometry does not produce the desired toolpath.

Possible Cause

The raster-to-vector conversion may have produced unwanted or inaccurate geometry.

Resolution

Review and clean up the converted geometry before creating the toolpath.



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Keywords

Importing Images, Image Import, Raster Image, Raster to Vector, Raster-to-Vector Conversion, Image to CAD, Image to Geometry, CAD Geometry, Toolpath Creation, GibbsCAM CAD Import