merging exported dxf files.

[badkarma78]

Hi all, great info here and maybe i am overlooking it but here is my issue.
Currently a student so bear with me please, I am using the Student version of TMCAD so it is limited but want to try to get as much setup prior to going on the school computer to export files and then put them on the TM4 to cut. What i want to know is, I have numerous drawings that i have exported into their own DXF file to cut using the TM4 software, Is it possible to then import those dxf files to arrange onto a full sheet to cut or does that have to be done prior to exporting? If i import into my student version of TMCAD then it comes into it as the line drawing of the toolpath and i worry that simply importing them all onto one drawing and then exporting as a dfx again to cut will not work? or will it?(my thoughts are that i would have to recreate a toolpath on the full sheet?) all drawing were made using the TM software but we have to export ass DXF to use with the older TM4 cutting software. so what is the best way to do this? or just either cut everything separately or reorganize prior to exporting as a dxf? Thanks!

 

[Dnmeistr-LECS]

You may be able to import the tool pathed dxf files, make a path on each file, arrange and nest the parts then export as a dxf again no need to create a tool path. The reason I say may is that the cut order may get scrambled when importing the dxf files. When you export the dxf if there is a check box that reads Tool Paths Only in this case you would want to uncheck this box.

 

[badkarma78]

You may be able to import the tool pathed dxf files, make a path on each file, arrange and nest the parts then export as a dxf again no need to create a tool path. The reason I say may is that the cut order may get scrambled when importing the dxf files. When you export the dxf if there is a check box that reads Tool Paths Only in this case you would want to uncheck this box.

Thanks! I have been sitting here importing the edu files that i have and creating a path again on the ones i have the files for. apparently i got so proud of my drawing on a couple that after i made the dxf file i got rid of the edu file......DOH! when it comes down to it i could cut everything i wanted individually but i feel i would waste material by not nesting it and trying to get it filling in the unused material without screwing up and running off the table will be hell i think. i am almost finished with the process but i want to try what your saying as well and see how it all works out, thanks for the info!!! ill let you know tonight how it turns out!