I imported an SVG file that I created in Affinity Designer into Bambu Studio. The file contained 14 objects with 7452 triangles.
If I mesh boolean the parts together, I end up with an object with 10,449,648 triangles and a very slow computer.
BS 1.9.5.51, Windows 10, A1 Mini printer
I’ve attached Demo.3mf. This is with the .svg file imported, but not meshed. Try meshing the CatCoin.svg assembly to see what I mean. The unmeshed .3mf file is around 89K, the meshed one around 89M. Demo.3mf (89.9 KB)
Note: in the demo file the parts are not centered over the build plate and are bigger in the build plate, but it makes no difference if the parts are scaled and centered.
I must be missing something here. Why would this object below require a Boolean mesh? These appear to be detached objects from an SVG import. Since they’re already part of an assembly, what purpose would joining these parts as a single mesh serve?
It doesn’t require a boolean mesh and that’s how I use it. I use the .svg file as a modifier to change the filament in the layer for a flush image. Changing an object’s type requires that each object be edited one by one. Positioning may also require each object be edited one by one. If it were possible to mesh the objects together, there would only be one object ot convert to modifier and to position.
I’m still unclear as to what that gets you. I also don’t think the slicer is the best tool for this kind of work. Boolean was intended for another purpose.
The boolean mesh feature borrow heavily from the same feature found in CAD. In CAD it has many more functions than what is implemented in Slicer programs. However, the big payoff comes in three abilities.
Union – This creates a composite model that is far simply for the slicer to slice as was seen in the example above.
Difference – I find this arguably the most useful tool when creating interlocking components. I can use one model, clone it and then use it to carve out a complimentary shape in the original model. Here’s just one example.
Take a bolt and add a cube to the assembly. The slicer will treat the combined assembly as one model.
Intersection – So let’s say I really want a hex nut. Then I simply take a second cube, rotate it 45° and then assemble and use the “intersection” feature to reveal only the parts of the model that are in common. Here is that example:
The Boolean intersect function in the slicer allows you to combine two models by keeping only the areas where they overlap, which can be useful for specific design adjustments. While it’s often better to use CAD for more precise control, the slicer’s intersect tool is handy for quick adjustments without needing to go back to the design stage.
For example, if you’re working with irregular shapes that don’t sit well on the print bed, you can use the intersect tool to cut them in a way that helps with positioning and assembly. Combined with cloning, you can create a disassembled version of a model with perfectly aligned parts, making assembly easier (e.g., for gluing). This ensures layer lines are in the ideal orientation, improving the final print’s strength and appearance.
This function is particularly useful when you need a quick and practical solution directly within the slicer.
So I upload the SVG file to Tinkercad (I can’t do real CAD), edit it there, save it as an STL file and then load it into Silcer.
I don’t know if that helps. If this is nonsense, please don’t hit me. Maybe I have not understood the problem correctly.
