The process transforms a three-dimensional digital model into a series of thin, two-dimensional layers. This conversion is essential for 3D printers, as they construct objects layer by layer. Imagine a loaf of bread: the digital model is the whole loaf, and the process divides it into individual slices that a printer can then recreate one at a time using a specific material.
This layer-by-layer approach enables the creation of complex geometries and intricate designs that are difficult or impossible to produce using traditional manufacturing techniques. Historically, this process relied on manual conversion. Modern software automates the task, optimizing it for factors like print speed, material usage, and structural integrity. The quality of the final printed object is directly related to the precision and efficiency of this digital preparation phase.
