UV Tools - a 3D print file analysis and repair tool

Came across references to this tool today in a couple of videos on examining and fixing 3D resin print files.

UV tools is the program ( download link https://github.com/sn4k3/UVtools/releases - scroll down to assets and select the correct version for your OS) Available for Windows and Linux and possibly Mac.

The software examines the sliced print file that you use on the printer, and will check for islands, overhangs, trapped resin, Suction cup and some other causes for print fails. Scanning can take a while, but not as long as a reprint.

Installation video



Check a model for islands and other possible print issues.



Anything that helps spot and fix issues before we click print is worth a look at, and the price is even acceptable for a Scotsman or Yorkshireman.

Paul

 

Hi Jim

This piece of software is aimed at resin printers - and only the ones it has support for ... which are most, and acesses the print file to examine the sliced layers for potential defects, then if required will make changes. Some people work this way, others (like in the video) will use the software to identify island then find the same location in the slicer software and add additional supports manually to fix the issue. Once all incidents have been treated, save the fixed file then reload it into UV tools to validate all is correct.

Chitubox & Lychee slicers also have island detection tools, and is worth firing these at your supported / sliced files, then check again with a third party tool just to check. With long print times and large resin useage on big prints anything to help reduce errors is a bonus.

Paul

 

Hi Jim

I feel your pain, I missed the CAD stage altogether, my pal at work could zip through 2D and 3D drawings without issue, he did however tend to keep the two types of drawings seperate. As a company the Drawing office tended to stick with AutoCad and its derivatives for 2D, and Solidworks for 3D with templates set up for 2D export if required.

For 3D modelling I started using AutoCad's 123D (Andy Sollis also uses this), unfortunately it is now unsupported by AutoCad.
Leaving the holy trinity (there are more but these are well supported on the net) Solidworks (the price is frightening), Fusion 360 (a free version is available) and Blender free and open source.
One advantage you do have is being competeant in 2D, as you can create sketches (or import them) in 2D within the 3D program and then use them to create the 3D parts by extruding, rotating etc etc etc...... I'm catching up on the 2D bits nevermind the 3D bits. I found having a project to work on, may not be the best way to learn the program, but it keeps you inspired.

Paul

 

According to the boss were happily married and I've never had it so good - and I'm not daft or brave enough to argue

I remember a modelling program on TV hosted by James May of Top Gear fame, the boss was in the room supping the cup of tea I made - needed the brownie points to watch the program - and a throwaway comment by James "You show me a man without a hobby and I'll show you a man cheating on his wife", no reation what so ever off the boss. Then when the program ended, there came a question "Is there anything you need for the railway ?" now I could have gone to town, but I just smiled and said "I'm fine for now thanks".
Two bits I take from this anecdote 1. James May is my hero and 2. The boss may be ignoring whats going on but thier internal radar is continually working

Now it's time to walk the dog and let the boss come too

Paul