Review and Improve the DESIGN Model

The extent to which the resultant imported model may require to be modified depends entirely upon your end requirements. A crude representation may be sufficient for space management or clash checking purposes, whereas a highly detailed model is required for realistic visualization. Alternatively, if the intention is to actively work on and manipulate the imported data, then an efficient and compact data structure is of paramount importance. Whatever the intention it is best to review the DESIGN model. The review can range from a superficial visual check to a detailed scrutiny of the graphics and database hierarchy.

Reviewing the model allows you to:

• verify that the level of detail in the model is sufficient for your purposes

• identify areas where the data structure could be improved

• identify any problem areas

If the model is generated through ImPLANT-STL with a loose tolerance setting, the model needs to be checked visually to locate errors due to failings in the STL export process. Identified problem areas can then be re-exported at a higher tolerance setting. If this does not correct the errors or there is geometry missing from the model, then there may be faults with the source model. In this case check that the source model has been healed prior to export.

If the model is visually acceptable but is slow to manipulate it should be checked to see if there are any areas where geometry can be remodelled more efficiently using fewer primitives. Viewing the model in wireline mode will effectively display areas that are densely packed with POHE primitives, ie areas where it has not been possible for ImPLANT-STL to generate a more efficient representation based on primitives.