1 Topic by Rocketman

  • Rocketman
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Topic: Simplifying objects??

I traced an image on Inkscape and uploaded to tinkercad to add depth to it and exported a .stl. I loaded it in Repetier to make sure the format wasn't corrupt. It appeared fine, but the tracing edges seem a bit rough. Is there a way to smooth edges to make the object more simple? The original object in the photo I traced was likely designed using more simple geometric shapes. I want to make the object more perfect.

2 Reply by fred_dot_u

  • fred_dot_u
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Re: Simplifying objects??

With Google as the backbone, I searched "smoothing edges in inkscape" and found many simple answers:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wYgbVmGHewo

I've not used inkscape or tinkercad (other than the tutorial) but have used other similar programs. Your .stl file gets the "roots" of the shape from the original source, a pencil jagged line.

This link references another aspect of inkscape I've seen in researching this question:

http://www.wikihow.com/Trace-an-Image-Using-Inkscape

You may have to re-trace your original or bring your line art into inkscape and use the smoothing option on the existing lines.

I've found that SketchUp will give poor resolution in curves and circles, while OpenSCAD allows very smooth fine curves and circles, but is not for tracing stuff.

Good luck.

FSL3D Pegasus Touch (not yet used, out for updating/upgrading)
Kudos3D (still in box/kit form, for sale)

3 Reply by Rocketman

  • Rocketman
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Re: Simplifying objects??

Yeah I suppose I can go back over the image, but I was thinking more along the lines of desimation and reducing angles other than of course the top and bottom which must remain flat. But yeah I suppose a brush variable could help.