Aspire Open Ended Vectors - How to cut passes ?

[roli_bark]

Hello Cam friends,
I am new here, and trying to solve a problem I have using Aspire:
I have an open ended vector that I want to cut in multiple passes.

I am having difficulties in saving Cutter lift-&-retrace time, by getting the alternate passes in alternate directions (1st pass from vector start-point to vector end-point, then on 2nd pass from vector end-point back to vector start-point, and so on in an alternate way).
TIA

[Gary Campbell]

Best to ask this on the Vectric Forum, as they have some very ingenious solutions.

[Michael Mezalick]

One of the ways to do this would be create a series of overlapping vectors each with alternating start points.
You would need to select the vectors in the correct order to make this work.
You pass depth of the tool, the start depth and the cut depth will all play a part.
Also choosing the "Use vector start point" option.
It would be a lot of work to setup but if your are running many items it could be worth while.
~M

[Michael Mezalick]

Another way is to create a single line.
Copy and paste it upon itself and join just one end.
Repeat this process and you will have one long single line that is overlapping itself.
If you choose the profile toolpath and select to ramp the tool over the entire length of the vector you will get a very comfortable result.
This is faster than my previous answer.
I'm sure there are a few more ways...
~M

[roli_bark]

Thanks Michael.
That last one is a good idea. But Aspire doesn't allow joining open vectors ?

Also - using your 2nd - how do I tell it to gradually depth increment from pass to alternate pass ?

[rcrawford]

Do you have Aspire 8? You can set up toolpaths that alternate 'climb' and 'conventional', with progressively deeper cuts. Then merge the toolpaths.

[roli_bark]

Alternate Climb/Conventional on Open Ended vectors too ? Good to know.
Thanks

[rcrawford]

Climb and conventional will start at opposite ends of the vector.

[Michael Mezalick]

Here's what I was referring to.

~M

Thanks Michael.
That last one is a good idea. But Aspire doesn't allow joining open vectors ?

Also - using your 2nd - how do I tell it to gradually depth increment from pass to alternate pass ?

[roli_bark]

Thanks Russel & Michael.