1 Topic by Skyblue

  • Skyblue
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  • From: Keller, Texas
  • Registered: 2013-01-04
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Topic: Boolean?

Hello everyone, been trying to find cheap software that will do a boolean operation (join two or more models together).  I am not willing to pay 900.00 or more just to do this thing, so I found another way.  Its something we already have, Repetier.
I noticed if you look after you have added a model, the add object key is still active.  You can add more objects to your platform, and move them so they merge, then select both, by holding the shift key down,  and save as STL.  An example is attached.  Center both objects, select the one you want to (for example) place on top of the first, use the z axis to raise the second object to just touch the first object.  Select both objects and save.  You can also of course scale objects individualy by selecting them.  The example provided has three objects joined together.  Prints great.

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SnakeCharmer.stl 2.59 mb, 11 downloads since 2013-03-12 

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2 Reply by nickythegreek

  • nickythegreek
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  • Registered: 2012-11-18
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Re: Boolean?

You will probably still want to run the merged STL through a service like http://cloud.netfabb.com to try and remove unneeded geometry that could give the slicing application a headache.

3 Reply by helagak

  • helagak
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Re: Boolean?

Another alternative is to use blender. It's similar to 3d studio max except that it's free open source. It handles boolean operations great and won't leave you dealing with unneeded internal geometry.

4 Reply by Skyblue

  • Skyblue
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Re: Boolean?

Yes, I always use Netfab Free to check my models before posting, or printing.  Thanks.

5 Reply by cckens

  • cckens
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  • Registered: 2012-09-13
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Re: Boolean?

Skyblue,
The objects are not really boolean-ed together, they are simply on the same platform.  The don't merge together as boolean objects do, they simply exist in the same object file.  You've actually accomplished the same thing that would be done in creating objects that are printed together (such as a ball bearing).  There is enough spacing to allow the model to print together while the original objects still remain manifold.

That being said, it's a good trick.  I wouldn't have thought of it, but then again, I have the software to do so without it.  People who don't have the software to compose scenes can do so with RH.

Nice tip!