Description: The STL Import plug-in enables you to import model data from an external file in STL format (*.stl) into a new Abaqus/CAE model. Stereolithography data can be used for quick prototyping and manufacturing of parts, and this enhancement enables you to import model data from STL files to use as display bodies or for visualization of display position.

You can import data from STL files in either ASCII or binary format. By default, the plug-in creates a new Abaqus/CAE model and a new Abaqus input file, both with the same name as the selected STL file, but you can specify a different name for these files. You can also change the tolerance value within which nodes are merged during the translation process.

In practice, you might want to add the STL model data that you import to an existing Abaqus/CAE model. To add the STL parts or part instances to an existing Abaqus/CAE model after import, copy these objects from the newly created model to any other Abaqus/CAE model using the Copy Objects dialog box. For more information about copying model objects, see “Copying objects between models,” Section 9.8.3 of the Abaqus/CAE User's Manual.

The STL Export plug-in enables you to export data from a part or assembly from the Abaqus/CAE model displayed in the current viewport to a file in STL format. You can export either geometry data or mesh data, and you can create an STL file in either ASCII or binary format.

All modules:
    Plug-insToolsSTL Import
    Plug-insToolsSTL Export