Buy Mecsoft RhinoCAM Software

MecSoft RhinoCAM

Version	Price & Buy
2023 Build 13.0.216 for Rhino 8 x64	$65
2018 Build 8.0.28 for Rhino 6 x64	$60
2018 Build 8.0.425 for Rhino 5 x64	$60
2017 Build 7.0.482 x64	$50
2016 Build 6.0.215 x64	$45
3.0.0.56 x32	$45

What is RhinoCAM Software?

Complete CAM Solution Inside Rhino

The software eliminates the traditional CAD-to-CAM workflow barrier by integrating directly with Rhino's modeling environment. When design changes occur, toolpaths automatically update through associative geometry linking—a feature that saves hours of rework during iterative design cycles. Cabinet manufacturer Insight Exhibits uses this capability to decompose complex exhibit assemblies into individual machinable components, then automatically updates all machining operations when clients request design modifications.

Who Benefits from RhinoCAM

Furniture makers, sign shops, exhibit fabricators, and prototype developers use RhinoCAM to transform Rhino models into physical parts. The software serves small custom shops needing basic 2.5-axis operations and advanced manufacturers requiring continuous 5-axis machining for complex geometries. Custom furniture builder Curtis Erpelding notes that design modifications no longer mean starting the entire CAM process over—the G-code adapts automatically.

How Does RhinoCAM Streamline CNC Machining Workflows?

RhinoCAM reduces the software switching that typically fragments the design-to-manufacturing process. Users work in a single environment from initial modeling through final G-code generation, which minimizes file export errors and eliminates the frustration of troubleshooting data transfer issues between separate applications.

Seamless Integration Eliminates Software Switching

Traditional CAM workflows require designers to export geometry, import it into standalone CAM software, generate toolpaths, then return to CAD for any modifications. This back-and-forth wastes time and introduces opportunities for errors. RhinoCAM keeps the entire process within Rhino's interface, where designers can preview toolpaths alongside their models and make immediate adjustments.

Manufacturing facilities appreciate the reduced context switching. Bernie Solo of WorksbySolo emphasizes this benefit so strongly that he uses #RhinoCAM as a hashtag in his social media posts, explaining "this is what I use, I like it and it works really well."

Associative Toolpath Technology

The software maintains dynamic links between geometry and toolpaths, automatically regenerating machining operations when models change. Professor Alfonso Orciuoli, an authorized Rhino distributor in Brazil, highlights this as critical for educational environments: "if we change the project design, we can update the toolpaths in one click."

This associativity proves valuable during client revisions. Museum exhibit fabricator Insight Exhibits regularly faces last-minute design modifications on curved enclosures and structural components—changes that would traditionally require hours of CAM reprogramming now take minutes.

What Key Capabilities Does RhinoCAM Provide?

RhinoCAM includes three core technologies that address common manufacturing challenges: multi-axis machining support, integrated material optimization, and collision prevention through simulation.

Multi-Axis Machining Support

The software handles 2.5-axis operations for basic parts, 3-axis surfacing for molds and prototypes, 4-axis indexed and continuous machining for cylindrical components, and full 5-axis continuous toolpaths for complex geometries with undercuts. This range allows businesses to start with simpler operations and expand capabilities as project complexity grows.

• Woodworking shops use 2.5-axis functionality for cabinet components and furniture parts
• Prototype developers employ 3-axis strategies for freeform surfaces
• Advanced manufacturers apply 5-axis machining to aerospace components and medical devices
• Sign makers leverage V-carving and engraving operations for dimensional work

Built-In Nesting and Material Optimization

The NEST module arranges parts efficiently on stock sheets, maximizing material usage and reducing waste. Cabinet shops particularly benefit from this capability when processing multiple components from plywood sheets. The nesting engine considers grain direction, part orientation, and cutting efficiency when generating layouts.

Automated nesting becomes especially valuable for production runs where material costs significantly impact profitability. The software calculates optimal arrangements that minimize scrap while maintaining proper spacing for tool clearance.

Collision Detection and Simulation

Visual simulation displays toolpaths cutting through material before any actual machining begins, revealing potential collisions between tools, holders, and fixtures. Marc Shlaes of EnviBoats USA switched from another CAM system specifically because of RhinoCAM's simulation and technical support quality, noting that his previous software couldn't handle 3-axis toolpath verification adequately.

The simulation environment shows the cutting process in real-time, allowing operators to identify problems like excessive material removal, inefficient tool movements, or dangerous collisions. This pre-machine verification prevents costly material waste and potential damage to CNC equipment.

How Can RhinoCAM Improve Manufacturing Efficiency?

Beyond basic toolpath generation, RhinoCAM offers automation capabilities and error prevention features that directly impact production throughput and material costs.

Automation Through API Integration

Python and .NET APIs enable custom workflow programming for repetitive manufacturing tasks. Cabinet manufacturers create scripts that automatically decompose assemblies, generate toolpaths for individual components, and produce complete machining documentation. This automation transforms hours of manual CAM programming into minutes of script execution.

The API documentation provides access to RhinoCAM's core functions, allowing experienced programmers to build custom interfaces for specific production requirements. A cabinet shop might develop a script that accepts design parameters, generates nested layouts, creates all required toolpaths, and outputs G-code files—all without manual intervention.

Error Prevention with Pre-Machine Verification

The simulation environment catches problems before they reach the shop floor. Curtis Erpelding of Erpelding Furniture describes receiving guidance about feed rates in corners that, when implemented, resulted in code that "simulates flawlessly" and "runs without hesitation on the router."

This verification process reduces the trial-and-error approach that wastes material during initial production runs. Operators gain confidence that toolpaths will execute as intended, which accelerates the transition from design to finished parts.

What Industries Use RhinoCAM?

Real-World Applications Across Industries

• Cabinet and furniture manufacturers use the Explode Cabinet utility to convert 3D assemblies into flat components ready for nested machining
• Museum exhibit fabricators create curved enclosures and structural elements for gallery installations, leveraging 3-axis surfacing capabilities
• Sign makers and engravers employ the ART module to convert bitmap images into 3D reliefs, then generate V-carving toolpaths
• Prototype developers appreciate the rapid design-to-part workflow for iterative development cycles

Which RhinoCAM Configuration is Right for Your Business?

RhinoCAM offers five configurations that scale from basic 2.5-axis operations to comprehensive 5-axis machining with turnkey capabilities.

Scalable Solutions from Entry to Premium

The modular structure allows businesses to purchase capabilities aligned with current needs, then upgrade as operations expand. Entry-level configurations include both material optimization (NEST) and artistic toolpath generation (ART), providing value beyond basic machining.

Frequently Asked Questions About RhinoCAM