Rookie user here. I’m designing a custom dash for my 1966 Corvette. I completed the top, main layer of the assembly and exported it to a dxf file. I uploaded my file to Send-Cut-Send and it looks great. I created the project in the XZ plane as all of the tutorials showed on the Send-Cut-Send site. I’ve done about 10 - 15 smaller projects using the same XZ plane and they exported to dxf and uploaded perfectly.
Next, I created a new component in the same project. I used the geometries in the Dash component to create another sheet metal part that will sit behind the dash. When I export this component to dxf and upload it to Send-Cut-Send, it is inverted. I’ve spent many hours trying to figure out how to fix it, and I’m stumped. I tried to upload my file, but I’m not allowed as a new user.
I also noticed my flat pattern is corrupted. I don’t understand why.
When you are able to post, the f3d file will allow us to see the orientation issues. If you post the dxf file we will not see orientation issues nor the flat panel issues.
It is all limited by a “gate keeper” that I am yet to understand the rules: number of posts, date you started???. Just keep posting and it will eventually be unlocked.
This is one way to export your f3d file (there are at least one or two others):
I looked through that exchange with the KC Chiefs project, but it didn’t help me. I tried redefining the sketch plane and that did weird things to my sketch as well. Plus it pulled the layer I’m working on to a different plane from the rest of the project.
The system still won’t let me upload a f3d file. I thought maybe it would now that my first post was approved, but no such luck. Any other path to getting a file to you?
I create my dxf file by right-clicking the latest Sketch and clicking “Save as dxf.” I’m on the free version of Fusion 360 and that’s the only way I’ve found. It has worked perfectly for quite a few projects. This inversion problem is new, but it’s also the first time I’ve tried to do two components in the same project.
Seems like I’m also blocked from sending a DM. No options for that anywhere.
Just keep reply to us and it should open up to you. Meanwhile I created a new graphic. Perhaps you can tell me if it makes sense. It is to show two ways of saving your sketch as a DXF file. It seems you already know how to do it…so I am making ‘small talk’ while we wait for your credentials to mature.
Yes. I can see it. I will share it here as well. Dash V3 v10.f3d (758.5 KB)
I am not seeing any bends. It could be the “flat pattern” is non-existent because there would be no reason to make the image flat. It is already flat. Am I missing something?
Edit: There are a lot of measurements and alignment with that design. I guess I would consider making a cardboard template first. Replace the torch or attach a sharpie marker to the torch and having the gcode draw it out on the cardboard. There are other threads on this forum that discuss the way to do that.
I just opened your version in Fusion 360, saved it as a dxf, and uploaded it to Send-Cut-Send. I don’t have my own laser cutting equipment; Send-Cut-Send makes my designs for me. Here is a screenshot of that upload. The dxf file is still rotated 180 degrees (upside down, but “spun” rather than flipped over). You can tell the orientation because the U-shaped notch in the bottom is slightly off-center to the left (this is where the steering column passes through).
In the screenshot, you’ll also see the version of the top layer with the bends. Not sure where the bends went after I created the second component that I call the “Lens Layer.”
In case it helps, the dash will be .060 Stainless Steel. The large holes will contain gauges (tach and speedo are larger, but the mount holes are the same). The indicators (turn signals, PRNDM, high beams) will be back-lit by LED lights. The “Lens Layer” will be .125 aluminum and will be located behind the dash layer and will hold frosted glass lenses to diffuse the LED light. There will be an additional layer of .500 aluminum that will hold the LED lights. These three layers need to line up perfectly, so I’m trying to keep them all in the same project so I can reference the location of the various holes and keep everything perfectly lined up when assembled.
Sorry. Same result. It’s still flipped when I upload the dxf to Send-Cut-Send. Keep in mind I can only create a dxf by right-clicking the Sketch and using the “Save as DXF” option there. I don’t see a way to create a dxf from the Manufacture menu.
My mistake. I was not looking at the time line and the components. I am still learning this. If you have more questions, ask and I will wait for someone else to jump in.
I tried to flip the sketches but then got myself confused and had some of the extrusions coming up with yellow warnings so I started again. Meanwhile, I appreciate that you have put some time into this design.
Meanwhile, I did fix the flat panel error. Don’t ask what I did…because I don’t know!!! Dash V3 v10FlatPanelFixed v1.f3d (1.2 MB)
