Using the Section View in GrabCAD Print™
GrabCAD Print, our standard free software designed for your Stratasys machine, now offers a new tool called Section View. This enhancement allows users to see inside their 3D models by sectioning them, providing a deeper view without the need to use external CAD software.
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Step 1: Open your model(s) in GrabCAD Print
To get started, open the model(s) you want to analyze in GrabCAD Print. The Section View tool works on the whole tray, so all the models on the tray will be sectioned, allowing you to inspect the interactions between different models.
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Step 2: Activate the Section View
Locate the Section View button in the view mode toolbar and click on it to activate the function. You can select the starting orientation of the section plane by clicking on the X, Y, or Z button. You can also flip the direction of the plane by clicking on the dedicated flip button
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Step 3: Adjust the section plane
Once the Section View is active, you'll see a gimbal-like interface. The blue arrow represents the direction of the section plane, while the green and red arcs allow you to adjust the angle of the section. Click and drag these elements to position the section plane as desired. You can change the orientation and position of the plane by using the 3D manipulators shown on the plane. The position of the plane can also be controlled by pressing the arrow up/down or left/right keys on your keyboard.
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Step 4: Examine your model's internal structure
With the section plane in place, you can now see inside your 3D model. This is particularly useful for identifying overlapping parts, internal features like screw holes, or the contents of a closed box shape. The Section View is especially helpful when working with PolyJet prints, which often have numerous overlapping bodies. Should the plane and manipulators be in the way, you can drag them to another area outside of your region of interest. You can also use the measure tool when Section View is active, allowing you to verify there is sufficient clearance between your models or identify any models that are too thin in the XY plane.
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Step 5: Troubleshoot and investigate
Use the Section View as a troubleshooting and investigatory tool. By examining the internal structure of your model before printing, you can identify potential issues and make necessary adjustments without the need to slice the entire design or switch to a separate CAD program.
