Smoothing Geometry for STL Export
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Does anyone know how I can actually smooth my vertices so I can export to stl and 3d print? I have been using SU for years and typically I work with architectural interiors and space design. I don't usually deal with organic forms but a friend came to me for a prototype design and he wants it 3d printed. After a week of cleaning up the model I was given and reforming it to new specs I exported it to .stl. I was really surprised when I was told the rough faces on the stl file were the actual faces and SU does a false vertex smoothing. Is there a way to salvage my model? I was told it was impossible to completly smooth the geometry in sketch up and I was going to have to remodel the prototype in another program. I have faith in plugins
.... just need to find the right one! Any thoughts?!?! - Tiffany -
Hi Tiffany. Its true, Sketchup smoothing doesn't translate well for 3D printing.
Having 3D printed many Sketchup models, I can assure you do not need a different program at all,
but its very likely you'll have to rebuild it with 3D printing in mind. You have to use more segments in your Sketchup curves for the final model to be smooth.Without seeing the model for specific advice, here are some suggestions for plugins:
You may be able to smooth the model in one shot with Artisan ($39).Depending on the model, you may be able to rebuild just parts of it with better curves (meaning increase the segment count), and a few free plugins:
Look for Fredo6's Bezier Curve, RoundCorner, and Curviloft, and TIG's Extrusion toolset.Feel free to PM me if you want specific advice on a model you can't share publicly.
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Artisan is the best tool to 'smooth forms' - it lets you define 'sharp' edges too... but there are non-$ alternatives like 'subdivide and smooth' [also try a search at Smustard.com for a very simple one].
Without a screenshot or SKP it's hard to tell the extent of the issues...
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