File > 3D Print (Part Level)
This command 'Prints' objects (parts or assemblies) in the currently active file to actual 3D shapes by using a special 3D printer. These objects firstly output as a STL file, then print them into the actual 3D shapes.
Steps for 3D Print
- Specify which objects in the active file will be printed. The objects can be parts or assemblies. You can print All Objects or Select From Screen to pick objects.
- Then set Chord height tessellation tolerance and Maximum mesh size for the *.stl file, or accept the default values.
- Specify the executable program (*.exe) of a 3D printer, and then click OK to print.
Tolerance Options
Chord height tessellation tolerance
Enter the chord height tessellation tolerance for generating the triangulated STL mesh. A smaller value will produce a finer mesh.
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Maximum mesh size
Use this option to set a maximum mesh size for the STL file. A value less than the current geometry tolerance is ignored. An isoline in each direction of the face (u and v) is calculated and the distance along this isoline is used to determine the maximum mesh size in that direction. See Chord height tessellation tolerance above for an illustration. Also refer to the figures below.
Sample Geometry to Mesh
Maximum mesh size = 0.0
Maximum mesh size = 20.0
3D Print