How to Convert
3D Models into STL Files
PTC Creo
3D printing in PolyJet :
forward File > Print > 3D Print
forward Define Material
forward Define STL resolution
Tip :Check your file for printability through the Printability Validation Tab
Retired PTC Creo Formats: Pro/ENGINEER
forward File > Export > Model
forward Set type to STL
forward Set chord height to 0. The field will be replaced by minimum acceptable value
forward Set Angle Control to 1
forward Click OK
Exporting your STL file can be done at all levels of design, for both individual parts and assemblies. When dealing with assemblies, you can specify parts of an assembly to either include or exclude from the resulting STL file. Use the procedure below for saving both parts and assemblies as STL files for eventual 3D printing.
To save a Pro/E as an STL file :
forward Check that the model design is continuous and “watertight”
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This step is especially important if the design was imported from a neutral design format because non-continuous bodies are likely to result in defective models
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To check for continuity:
- View the model with hidden lines displayed.
- From the View menu, select Display Setting > Scheme > PreWildfire. The model surfaces are displayed in magenta. If the design is continuous, the contour lines are white. If there are gaps, the lines are yellow.
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Fix the model design, if necessary, before saving it as an STL file.
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From the File menu, select Save a Copy. The Save a Copy dialog box appears.
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From the Type pull-down menu, select STL
forward Set type to STL
forward Set chord height to 0. The field will be replaced by minimum acceptable value
forward Set Angle Control to 1
forward Click OK
Exporting your STL file can be done at all levels of design, for both individual parts and assemblies. When dealing with assemblies, you can specify parts of an assembly to either include or exclude from the resulting STL file. Use the procedure below for saving both parts and assemblies as STL files for eventual 3D printing.
Deviation Control
The Deviation Control settings in the Export STL dialog box affect the accuracy of the model and the size of its file.
forward Open Chord Height (chordal tolerance)
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This setting specifies the maximum distance between the surface of the original design and the tessellated surface of the STL triangle (the chord)
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Chord height controls the degree of tessellation of the model surface
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The smaller the chord height, the less deviation from the actual part surface (but the bigger the file)
Angle Control
This setting regulates how much additional tessellation occurs along surfaces with small radii. The smaller the radii, the more triangles are used. The setting can be between 0 and 1. Unless a higher setting is necessary, to achieve smoother surfaces, 0 is recommended.
Once you have reviewed the above the controls and adjusted your settings, click Apply > OK to create the STL file.
Saving a Pro/E Assembly as an STL File
forward File > Save a Copy
forward From the Type pull-down menu, select STL.
forward Export STL dialog box appears: Specify the parts of the assembly to either include or exclude within the resulting STL file
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Example: In the dialog box one of the parts of the assembly (the tire) has been excluded, leaving two parts (the hub and the main wheel) to be exported to the STL file. The design resulting from these settings (when you click OK) is shown on the left.
forward When you have made all of the required settings, click Apply and OK to create the STL file.
