Separating a model into pieces

[gnat]

Background: I just found out about Wings3D and barely know what I'm doing in 3D modeling (TinkerCAD is my go to option...), so I apologize ahead of time for lack of understanding. My primary usage for 3D models is for printing.

I have a model that is a single object in an STL and I would like to separate parts into sub objects so that they can be printed individually. I've played with MeshMixer to attempt this after reading and watching tutorials, but so far I have had no success (the results are non-printable objects).

Playing with Wings3D it seems to have a much nicer interface that MM in regards to identifying the parts I want to break out, but even though it feels like W3D has the feature I'm looking for I can't seem to figure it out.

Is this something that can actually be done? If so, what is the proper workflow?

[micheus]

Hi gnat, welcome.

I cannot suggest much to you since I have no experience printing 3d objects.

From viewpoint of modelling on Wings3D, to break you one block object into parts will require you to identify the edge loops where that should be done, apply the Loop Cut command and make a reconstruction of mesh in that region.

If the object is multiple piece (separated pieces), but acts as one block object then you probably will need to use Separate command in section Body mode.

If you need to make a plain cut of a object session, then you can use Plane Cut.

There are some options depending on the object complexity and the result expected.

[gnat]

Thanks micheus. It sounds like from your description that the Loop Cut is the option I'm looking for.

I found http://www.wings3d.com/?page_id=766 and that seems pretty straight forward to get started from.

Thanks again.

[micheus]

Sure.

If you need any other information feel free to ask and when possible add a printscreen that can help someone to better understand your problem.
For these kind of questions you can create new threads in Interface & Usage

[RubberMan]

Extract also works and leaves your original in tact.

[kenmo]

I usually use Blender for this as there is a option in Edit mode to Separate. I usually use Separate by Selection.

I'm not a big fan of Blender and much prefer the friendly interface of Wings3D or Silo3D. But there are way too many tutorials and add-ons available for Blender to ignore it.

Cheers

Kenmo