ipicture software

Here is a common question that we get from new customers: This explains all the settings in iPicture.

?From the Menu bar select "File" and "Open Image File" to open an image (JPG, PNG, TIFF, GIFF, BMP) file that you would like to machine.

?From the Menu bar select "File" and "Open G-Code File" to convert a .dat file (created in a CAD program such as ArtCAM Express or V-Carve Pro) into a .GEE file for machining. Note that when you import a file none of the settings in iPicture will apply

?Scale Unit: You may choose between scaling your project in inch or metric units

?Size of project: Once downloaded the project size will appear in the first two columns. The first column is the X axis (left to right on your machine) and the second column will show the Y axis (front to back on your machine). You can change the size of your project to your liking. Note that iPicture will keep the project in scale so if the X axis is changed the Y axis will change proportionately and vice versa. The third column determines the maximum depth of machining and is completely independent of the first two columns.

?Scan Step: This determines the amount of material that will be removed with each pass. The default setting is .2 mm (.007874") and is typically a good setting for most projects machined with the 1/32" conical V-bit which is included with the iCarver. If you reduce this setting then machining time will increase but the project will increase in detail and definition. If you increase this setting then machining time will be shorter but there is a potential for some more noticeable machining lines and detail may not be as great. When using the 1/8" end mill (also included with the iCarver this setting should be increased as you will, in most cases,be looking for more efficient machining times and detail will not be as much of a factor.

?Tool Type: There are six tools listed here but the iCarver only comes with two: GVee_R 1/32" (1/32" conical V-bit) and End Mill_D 1/8" (1/8" end mill). iPicture can only machine using the tools in this drop down list.

?Feed Depth Per Cycle: This allows you to control the depth per pass of your machining operation. Typically the iCarver should be set to pass depths not to exceed .25" with the conical v-bit and .125" with the end mill. If, for example you are machining a project with a v-bit to a depth of .5" and the Depth Per Pass is set at .25" then the project will take two passes to complete the entire machining operation

?XY Origin Position: You may select any origin position to machine your project. the only rule of thumb here is that wherever you choose as an origin position i iPicture must be the same as where you set the origin position on the iCarver

?Preview: The preview will allow you to see the project toolpath on a preview screen before outputting the file to your iCarver

?Convert: This will convert the file to a .GEE file which is the format which is recognized by your iCarver

Hope this helps.