2011

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.
NOTE Setting 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
1 Click Output tab ➤ Send panel ➤ Export.
2 In the Export Data dialog box, enter a file name.
3 Under Files of Type, select Lithography (*.stl). Click Save.
4 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.
Quick Reference
Commands
EXPORT
Saves the objects in a drawing to a different file format.
1816 | Chapter 37 Work with Data in Other Formats