How to convert text to a laser path?

[lkwall45]

I'm looking for a way to convert text to a closed polyline to then be processed into a tool path for cutting with a laser or plasma cutter. I tried "explode", that didn't work. Any other ideas?

Thanks, LK

 

[rKeyTek]

Another guy here wanted the same thing ...
Here's the link to that thread ...

thread555-53611

Now... just a heads up ...
"EXIT" will suggest the "text explode" command ...
But you need the "Express Tools" for that ...
And that set of tools needs to be purchased ... and most employers don't wish to spend money ....
Which is why I suggested the DXB option.
More & more I see less knowledge of the "express tools", since the employers are getting cheap ....

Anyway ...

DXBOUT/ DXBIN ...
But make sure the text height is 1/8" high or so for good results ... with "True Type Fonts that are filled!
Otherwise bump up the font to 1" or 2" if the font ISN'T FILLED.

(For the "EXPRES TOOLS" ...) TEXT EXPLODE ...
I would bump up the text height to 1" or 2" for better results, as well.


But DUDE!
After that you'll have to trace the font for your "CLOSED POLYGON".

Although, someone here might have a LISP routine that will enable you select the loose lines and create a closed polygon.

In any case,
DXBOUT then DXBIN should work.
OR
TXTEXP should work too!

Best of luck!


Rich

 

[Welshman]

Hi Guys, just reading this thread and I notice that a LISP routine for tracing the exploded text was mentioned.

Why not use the AutoCad command BPOLY which will automatically trace the inside of any closed object and create a polyline of the area?

I don't know if it is a well known command but having found it I could'nt live without it.

Regards from Wales - The Welshman

 

[rKeyTek]

Dude,
Not to "break-balls" here ... But ...
If you did the task of exploding the text .. you would see that BPOLY wouldn't work well.
For some reason ... unknown to me ... fonts explode into "jagged" edges.

This is why it's best to "manually" trace the font after ... you're able to snap to the edges of the FONT.

But you're right about BPOLY being around for ages.

Later guy....

R.