Post by Oliver Machinery on Feb 7, 2013 8:11:54 GMT -8
The main difference between the 1013 and the 1015PRO other than the size capability is how each machine operates the XY and Z axis movements. On the 1013, the table moves for the Y-axis with a gear/rack system while the X and Z movement is done with ball screws. On the 1015PRO, the table is stationary and the gantry moves for the Y axis on a ball screw and guides; the X and Z axis are the same as the 1013. Typically, ball screws are better for accuracy than a gear/rack system. This is the main reason the 1015PRO is better suited for Gcode operations (files produced from CAD/CAM software such as ArtCam or Vectric). Although the 1013 will run Gcode files, it is thought that overtime, the gear/rack system may be compromised and so it is recommended to run image files only. (In case you do not know what I am referring to, you will notice i-Picture gives you the option to open an image file or Gcode file.)
I will now explain the difference in machine operation when running an image file or when running a Gcode file. When running an image file both machines operate in the same fashion. To offer an analogy, consider the old paper feed printers. The paper feeds incrementally as the ink stylus moves back and forth across the paper. On the 1013 the paper is the table. It moves just a little bit at a time in the Y direction as the router goes back and forth across the wood. The 1015PRO is the same way except rather than the table moving, the gantry moves in the Y direction a little at a time. However, when running a Gcode file, the carving is produced according to the toolpath designated by the CADCAM software program. In other words, the machine will not operate like a paper feed printer. It can go in the X+ direction for a period, then go in the Z+ direction, then X-, then Y+, then Y-, then Z-. This ‘toolpath’ is usually very efficient and gives good results with quicker carving times.
Now before you go out and buy one of these software programs beware that there is a huge learning curve, at least for me. This is the beauty of the intelliCarve machine. For beginners without vector design knowledge, the machine can be used to run image files with very little computer knowledge.
I will now explain the difference in machine operation when running an image file or when running a Gcode file. When running an image file both machines operate in the same fashion. To offer an analogy, consider the old paper feed printers. The paper feeds incrementally as the ink stylus moves back and forth across the paper. On the 1013 the paper is the table. It moves just a little bit at a time in the Y direction as the router goes back and forth across the wood. The 1015PRO is the same way except rather than the table moving, the gantry moves in the Y direction a little at a time. However, when running a Gcode file, the carving is produced according to the toolpath designated by the CADCAM software program. In other words, the machine will not operate like a paper feed printer. It can go in the X+ direction for a period, then go in the Z+ direction, then X-, then Y+, then Y-, then Z-. This ‘toolpath’ is usually very efficient and gives good results with quicker carving times.
Now before you go out and buy one of these software programs beware that there is a huge learning curve, at least for me. This is the beauty of the intelliCarve machine. For beginners without vector design knowledge, the machine can be used to run image files with very little computer knowledge.
