diff --git a/Home.md b/Home.md index 0abdd8f..6e98b91 100644 --- a/Home.md +++ b/Home.md @@ -12,6 +12,7 @@ The below sections provide a detailed settings explanation as well as tips and t - [Line Width Settings](quality_settings_line_width) - [Seam Settings](quality_settings_seam) - [Precise wall](Precise-wall) +- [STL Transformation](stl-transformation) ### Speed Settings - [Extrusion rate smoothing](extrusion-rate-smoothing) diff --git a/images/stl transformation/simplify-menu.png b/images/stl transformation/simplify-menu.png new file mode 100644 index 0000000..a78ff40 Binary files /dev/null and b/images/stl transformation/simplify-menu.png differ diff --git a/images/stl transformation/stl-transformation-enable.png b/images/stl transformation/stl-transformation-enable.png new file mode 100644 index 0000000..56edb41 Binary files /dev/null and b/images/stl transformation/stl-transformation-enable.png differ diff --git a/images/stl transformation/stl-transformation-params.png b/images/stl transformation/stl-transformation-params.png new file mode 100644 index 0000000..da9c312 Binary files /dev/null and b/images/stl transformation/stl-transformation-params.png differ diff --git a/images/stl transformation/stl-transformation-smooth-rough.png b/images/stl transformation/stl-transformation-smooth-rough.png new file mode 100644 index 0000000..0d69838 Binary files /dev/null and b/images/stl transformation/stl-transformation-smooth-rough.png differ diff --git a/images/stl transformation/stl-transformation-split.png b/images/stl transformation/stl-transformation-split.png new file mode 100644 index 0000000..85480c9 Binary files /dev/null and b/images/stl transformation/stl-transformation-split.png differ diff --git a/images/stl transformation/stl-transformation.png b/images/stl transformation/stl-transformation.png new file mode 100644 index 0000000..4390b85 Binary files /dev/null and b/images/stl transformation/stl-transformation.png differ diff --git a/stl-transformation.md b/stl-transformation.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..58a7009 --- /dev/null +++ b/stl-transformation.md @@ -0,0 +1,56 @@ +# STL Transformation + +OrcaSlicer primarily relies on STL meshes for slicing, but STL files may come with several limitations. + +Typically, STL files feature a low polygon count, which can adversely affect print quality. +In contrast, using STEP files offers a higher-quality mesh that more accurately represents the original design. However, be aware that both high-polygon STL and STEP files can increase slicing time. + +![image](./images/stl%20transformation/stl-transformation-smooth-rough.png) + +## Importing STEP files + +This setting determines how STEP files are converted into STL files and is displayed during the STEP file import process. +If you don't see this when opening a STEP file, check [Don't show again](#Don't-show-again) below. + +![image](./images/stl%20transformation/stl-transformation.png) + +### Parameters: + +The transformation uses [Linear Deflection and Angular Deflection](https://dev.opencascade.org/doc/overview/html/occt_user_guides__mesh.html) parameters to control the mesh quality. +A finer mesh will result in a more accurate representation of the original surface, but it will also increase the file size and processing time. + +![image](./images/stl%20transformation/stl-transformation-params.png) + + - **Linear Deflection**: Specifies the maximum distance allowed between the original surface and its polygonal approximation. Lower values produce a mesh that more accurately follows the original curvature. + - **Angular Deflection**: Defines the maximum allowable angle difference between the actual surface and its tessellated counterpart. Smaller angular deflection values yield a more precise mesh. + +#### Split compound and compsolid into multiple objects: + +Enabling this option will split the imported 3D file into separate objects. This is especially useful for adjusting individual object positions, tweaking print settings, or optimizing the model through simplification. + +![image](./images/stl%20transformation/stl-transformation-split.png) + +#### Don't show again + +This option will hide the STL transformation dialog when opening a STEP file. +To restore the dialog, go to "Preferences" (Ctrl + P) > "Show the STEP mesh parameter setting dialog". + +![image](./images/stl%20transformation/stl-transformation-enable.png) + +## Simplify model + +When working with models that have a high polygon count, the Simplify Model option can significantly reduce complexity and help decrease slicing times. + +This function is especially useful for improving the performance of the slicer or achieving a specific faceted look for artistic or technical reasons. + +To access the Simplify Model option, right-click on the object to simplify in the "Prepare" menu. + +![image](./images/stl%20transformation/simplify-menu.png) + +It is recommended to enable the "Show Wireframe" option when running a simplification process to visually inspect the outcome. However, be cautious: overly aggressive simplification may lead to noticeable detail loss, increased ringing, or other printing issues. + + +### You can Simplify your model using the following options: + +- **Detail Level:** Control the level of detail in the simplified model by choosing from five preset options. This setting allows for a balance between mesh fidelity and performance. +- **Decimate Ratio:** Adjust the ratio between the original model's polygon count and that of the simplified model. For instance, a decimate ratio of 0.5 will yield a model with approximately half the original number of polygons.