3
SLICING 3D MODELS
3.2
Generating G-code from 3D models
After you get a 3D model, you need to slice it into horizontal layers for your Artifex 2 3D
Printer to print it out layer by layer. The instructions which command your Artifex 2 3D
Printer to do the layer-by-layer printing are saved in a G-code file. The translation from a
digital 3D model into a G-code file is processed by a slicing program called
slicer
. In this
chapter, we introduce two slicers, CuraEngine and Slic3r, which have been integrated in the
Repetier-Host printing software. CuraEngine is easier to start with due to its arguably more
intuitive parameter settings, while Slic3r offers more control options for you to fine tune the
printing process once you get familiar with the settings.
3.2.1
Loading 3D models
1. Download the STL file (CuteOcto.stl) for the cute octopus model from our website,
and save it to your computer’s Desktop or a location of your choice.
2. On the Repetier-Host interface, click the “Load” button on the top menu bar. Locate
the downloaded file “CuteOcto.stl” and open it.
3. Once the loading is completed, the 3D model will be displayed on the left “3D View”
window, where you can rotate, zoom, move the model to view the 3D model. The
“Object Placement” page on the right side listed the file name of loaded 3D model,
available placement operations, and some model information. (Figure 3.1)
http: // 3dmakerworld. com
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