How to export STL file in color? or how to color STL file?
I am working on 3shape software which allows me to work on teeth models for orthodontic purpose.file import is from iTero scanner. 3Shape its self gives different color of teeth and gums to work on but when i am trying to export those file in color stl they are coming out in single white color. Doctors are askinng for user friendly files in color that separates teeth and gums. I know other competitors are providing such service. If anyone knows how to export in STL files in color or can use any other software which allows to export files in color stl format would be helpful. thank you.
3 Answers
Files in STL format don't have color but there are a few ways you can get color on your prints. The first, and likely the simplest, would be to make each part that is meant to be a different color a different shell and export it as an assembly. When you bring the assembly into GrabCadPrint, you can assign a different color to each part separately.
Alternatively, you can work with VRML file format. This allows for a wider range of color variation but is less accessible since fewer printers can work with that format. If you have access to a printer that can print VRMLs, that is an option.
STL formats which include color are non-standard... If you are however exporting a color STL format, maybe it requires a different reader to enable the color differentiation. Or, AP214 version of the STEP format does have color.
I used to get black STL files a lot of the time, it was very annoying.
STL may not support colors, but it seems it is possible based on the black ones I received. Or at least they were being saved with a lack of color (or light).
The first thing to check is if you are exporting binary or ascii stl files. I believe the black ones I received were saved as the ascii type.
Otherwise you might look for a way to export to VRML files. Those were popular for a time with Z-Corp powder printers which were capable of color.
The new AMF format also supports color in a mesh file, but I have not seen many people making use of it.
