You can export 3D solid
objects in the STL file format compatible with stereolithography
or 3D printing.
Stereolithography or
3D printing is used in rapid prototyping, rapid manufacturing, and
other applications to create physical parts and models.
The 3D solid data is translated to a faceted
mesh representation consisting of a set of triangles and saved to
an STL file. Use the FACETRES system variable to adjust the facet
density to an appropriate detail level.
NoteSetting the resolution
too high slows down the fabrication process without improving the
output quality of the stereolithography device.
The STL data is used
to create an object by depositing a succession of thin layers of
plastics, metals, or composite materials. The resulting parts and
models are commonly used for the following:
- Visualize design concepts
- Create product mockups, architectural
models, and terrain models
- Test form, fit, and function
- Identify design problems
- Create masters for vacuum forming applications
- Create Marketing tools
To export 3D solids to
an STL file
-
- In the Export Data
dialog box, enter a file name.
- Under Files of Type,
select Lithography (*.stl). Click Save.
- Select one or more
solid objects. All objects must be entirely within the positive
XYZ octant of the world coordinate system (WCS). That is, their X, Y,
and Z coordinates must be greater
than zero.
The
file extension .stl is automatically appended
to the file name.
CommandsEXPORT
Saves the objects in
a drawing to a different file format.
System VariablesFACETRES
Adjusts
the smoothness of shaded and rendered objects and objects with hidden
lines removed.
