Vectric Aspire Version 12 is OUT NOW!

Overview

This video provides an overview of the new and improved features in Vectric Aspire Version 12, focusing on workflow enhancements, new toolpaths, 3D modeling tools, and interface modernizations. It is intended for existing customers upgrading from a previous version and highlights incremental changes only.

Steps

1. Explore the modernized interface – A new UI with enhanced DPI scaling, and a combined vector/component tools panel that allows drawing and 3D tools without switching tabs.
2. Use Sketch Carving – Convert a high-quality image or 3D model into a v-carve toolpath by selecting the source, assigning tool and tracing parameters, then calculating.
3. Create v-carve inlays – The new v-carve inlay toolpath automatically generates both plug and pocket toolpaths, mirrors geometry, and can place the plug on a separate sheet via a drop-down option.
4. Apply new 3D shape tools – Four new tools create round, angled, smooth, and custom shapes. Use interactive handles to dynamically adjust properties; shapes remember their creation properties for later edits.
5. Set Keep Out Zones – Draw vectors to represent areas the machine should avoid during rapid moves or between cuts. Assign them in the toolpath form and toggle visibility as needed.
6. Generate cross-section vectors – The 3D cross-section tool creates vectors from any part of a 3D model by clicking between two points.
7. Draw directly in the 3D view – Many drawing tools now work in 3D view, with on-shape handles for quick property changes and a button to toggle vector visibility.
8. Manage components from the document toolbar – Use the drop-down menu to switch active levels, adjust visibility, change combine modes, and add new levels.
9. Switch to orthographic view – Toggle perspective off to view 2D objects over the 3D view, useful for aligning toolpath geometry with the model.
10. Use the new 3D view control – Click faces or drag the interactive control to quickly change orientation and view angles.
11. Control view visibility – The view toolbar lets you show or hide vectors, bitmaps, toolpaths, and components with one click.
12. Access sheets directly – Add or switch sheets from the document toolbar drop-down, avoiding the need to navigate to the sheets tab.
13. Import 2D data from one button – Vector and bitmap imports have been unified into a single import action.
14. Get live help in the 3D view – The software tracks your current tool or action and displays helpful tips, with quick access to relevant documentation.

Key Points / Warnings

• If a toolpath runs into a Keep Out Zone, the software will not allow you to save out the toolpath.
• Sketch carving produces toolpaths that are faster to machine than 3D toolpaths and require minimal design input.
• The new 3D shape tools support node-editing of boundaries and cross-sections, allowing non-destructive tweaking after creation.
• Drawing in the 3D view is available for many drawing tools and includes interactive handles to reduce form navigation.
• The orthographic view is specifically useful for comparing toolpath parts alongside the 3D model.
• The new view toolbar and document toolbar drop-downs are designed to reduce mouse travel and streamline workflows.