About Exporting Stereolithography STL Files

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.

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