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Mesh issues & 3D Printing

ZBrush Usage Questions
#1

I am posting my question in here at the suggetion of ZBrush Technical support.

I am trying to find a method for taking pre-existing models [i.e., V4 from DAZ3D] and converting them to *.stl format in norder to have the figure printed in 3D. I have found a simple method to convert an *.obj to *.stl. The problem with the pre-existing models is they are not 3D print friendly. From what I have come to understand, the problem seems to be that these models have intersecting component mesh, which causes manifold issues (sccording to the 3D Printer’s software).

I have tried Zbrush’s Unified skin feature, but the resolution doesn’t offer the surface detail I am looking to obtain. The maximum resolution nof 512 provides a very rounded shell-like representation. What I am trying to find/learn is an automated or scripted process that provide me a means of either:

  1. Obtaining near exact resolution between an outer mesh (like unified skin) and the subject model, or

  2. fusing the surface polygons into unified mesh object removing extraneous internal vertices.

Even with my small amount of modeling knowledge it would seem the first option is much easier to accomplish. Can anyone give me insight if ZBrush [or some other application] can accomplish this through scripts or automated processes?

My goal is it avoid manually fuse surface polygons one vertice at a time to create a printable object.

#2

You’re going to need to use retopology to accomplish this. With its projection feature you can transfer the details from the source mesh.

#3

Where is retopography, what is retopography and how do I do that?

#4

The Wiki is your friend. :slight_smile:

http://www.pixologic.com/docs/index.php/Topology

#5

Intersecting meshes also aren’t necessarily a problem depending on the 3d printer and the software driving it. The biggest issue is holes in the mesh ( Usually the eyes and mouths are the biggest culprit with 3rd party meshes ) and non-manifold edges.

#6

So where can I find a good/decent tutorial about how to solve mesh holes and non-manifold edge issues?