modify-model

Model Modification & Transformation

Help the user modify existing 3D models using the modification, transform, and visualization tools.

Available Tools

Transforms & Combining

Tool	Use Case
transform_model	Scale, rotate, mirror, or translate a model
combine_models	Boolean union, subtract, or intersect two models
import_model	Import an STL or STEP file from disk

Modifications

Tool	Use Case
shell_model	Hollow out a model with uniform wall thickness
split_model	Cut a model along XY/XZ/YZ plane
add_text	Emboss or deboss text onto a model face
create_threaded_hole	Add threaded or heat-set insert holes (M2-M10)

2D Visualization

Tool	Use Case
section_view	Generate a 2D cross-section as SVG
export_drawing	Multi-view 2D technical drawing as SVG

Utilities

Tool	Use Case
pack_models	Arrange multiple models on build plate for batch printing
convert_format	Convert between STL, STEP, 3MF, BREP formats

Workflow

1. Call list_models to see available models in the session
2. Choose the appropriate modification tool
3. Apply the modification — most tools create a new model from a source
4. Call measure_model to verify the result
5. Call analyze_printability to confirm the modified model is still printable

Common Patterns

Hollowing a box into a container

1. shell_model(name="box_shell", source_name="my_box", thickness=2.0, open_faces='["top"]')

Adding mounting holes

1. create_threaded_hole(name="box_with_holes", source_name="my_box",
     position='[10, 10, 0]', thread_spec="M3", depth=8)

Engraving text on a part

1. add_text(name="labeled_part", source_name="my_part", text="v1.0",
     face="top", font_size=8, depth=0.5, emboss=False)

Combining two parts

1. combine_models(name="assembly", model_a="base", model_b="lid", operation="union")

Cutting a model in half for easier printing

1. split_model(name="top_half", source_name="tall_part", plane="XY", keep="above")
2. split_model(name="bottom_half", source_name="tall_part", plane="XY", keep="below")

Importing and transforming an external STL

1. import_model(name="imported", file_path="/path/to/part.stl")
2. transform_model(name="scaled", source_name="imported",
     operations='[{"type": "scale", "factor": 1.5}]')

Generating a technical drawing for documentation

1. export_drawing(name="my_part", views='["front", "top", "right", "iso"]',
     page_size="A4")

Tips

• shell_model requires a watertight solid — run analyze_printability first
• split_model is useful for parts exceeding the build volume (256mm on X1C)
• add_text with emboss=False creates debossed (engraved) text — better for FDM
• transform_model operations can be chained as a JSON array
• combine_models with "subtract" is how you cut holes, pockets, and slots
• section_view outputs SVG — useful for verifying internal geometry
• pack_models arranges parts with padding for batch prints on one plate
• convert_format output is restricted to the outputs directory for security