3-D STL

STL is a standard interface for geometry data transfer (surface model) to STereo-Lithography. The model drawings are transferred here as triangular models.

 

Import STL

Drawing > New/Open > Open > 3-D Import

After calling the function, choose the file format STL files (*.stl) at the bottom right of the dialogue window, and then the file to be imported.

On the right side of the dialogue window you can define various options for the import. These settings can be preset in the Configuration Editor at Interfaces > STL.

Settings

Effect

AutoOptimise

If this checkbox is active , a union of (divided) edges and surfaces is carried out directly during the import (corresponds to the HiCAD function 3D-Standard > Tools > Surface > Further ... > Optimise part).

Separate parts

If this checkbox is active, individual parts are inserted separately instead of as one solid body.

 

Once you have made the desired settings, click on Open to start the import.

Settings made in the dialogue window for an interface format can be saved as favourites. To do this, click on the symbol in the dialogue window. You can find more information on favourites management in the in the Manage Favourites topic of the HiCAD Basics Help. You can specify which favourite is used as the default in the import dialogue in the Configuration Editor at Interfaces > Import.

Export STL

Drawing > Save/Print > Save as > 3-D Formats (STEP...)

To export a model drawing as STL, select the file format STL (*.stl) after calling the function in the selection dialogue window.

Settings

Effect

Parts to be exported

Here, you determine whether the entire drawing or only the active part or parts list is to be exported.

Parts in separate files

If this checkbox is active, then each part is exported as a separate STL file with the name of the model drawing, followed by a consecutive number, e.g. EXAMPLE_07.STL.

Export displayed parts only

If this checkbox is active, only the parts that are visible in the active view are exported.

File format

Here you may choose between ASCII and binary. Exporting as a binary file has the advantage that the file size is significantly smaller than with ASCII files.

Unit of length

Here you can choose between mm, cm, m and inch .

Accuracy

Here you define which mode of polyhedron approximation is to be used for the export. The setting also affects the display of shaded models. The higher the value, the cleaner and more accurate the shading. However, this also increases the file size!

  • As in drawing
    Here the file is output as triangle models calculated exactly as it is displayed in HiCAD. This has the advantage that it is very accurate and also fast, as the calculation has already been done.
  • Polygon points per quadrant
    Enter the number of polygon points (at least 2). The default setting is 6.
  • Via distance tolerance
    Enter a tolerance for the Distance (default is 0.1) .
  • Via distance tolerance with maximum number
    Enter a tolerance for the Distance, and the Max value beneath Polygon points for 3-D quarter circle.
  • Via distance tolerance with minimum number
    Enter a tolerance for then Distance, and the Min value beneath Polygon points for 3-D quarter circle.

 

Make the desired settings and specify the path and name of the export file. When you exit the window with OK, the STL file is generated with the settings you have made.

3-D Interfaces • Interfaces• Configuration Editor: Settings for InterfacesConfiguration Editor: Settings for Interfaces