Modeling Resolution in Vectric's VCarve and Aspire

Overview

This video explains the difference between Modeling Resolution and Screen/Preview Resolution in Vectric VCarve and Aspire. It demonstrates how modeling resolution affects generated 3D components, why it matters for quality, and how preview resolution influences what you see in the 3D view without changing the actual toolpath.

Steps

1. Set up a 24“ x 24“ job with Standard Model Resolution.
2. Create a chain link component from two vectors using Merge mode.
   • Observe the jagged, low-quality result at standard resolution.
3. Change the modeling resolution to Maximum and recreate the same components.
   • Observe the much smoother result.
4. Make a Model of Visible Components and rotate it around center 60 times to build a chain link frame.
5. Compare the standard-resolution frame to the maximum-resolution frame.
6. Test pre-loaded 3D clip art by rotating a fleur-de-lis 60 times at standard and maximum resolution.
   • Compare the two borders.
7. Import an external 3D model (e.g., a sailing ship) at standard resolution, then again at maximum resolution.
8. Test screen resolution by drawing ovals and applying a simple Profile Toolpath.
   • Preview at standard resolution and observe jagged edges.
   • Change Preview Resolution to Maximum and re-preview to see clean edges.

Key Points / Warnings

• Modeling Resolution affects the quality of 3D components and any geometry derived from them.
• Higher modeling resolution produces better results but slows down calculation speed.
• Components created at maximum resolution retain their quality even if the job resolution is changed back to standard.
• Standard resolution can create poorly shaped boundary vectors if you generate them from low-quality components.
• Watch the number of nodes in your vectors — more nodes can make the resulting product rougher. Minimize nodes where possible.
• Pre-loaded Vectric 3D clip art is high quality, so modeling resolution makes little visible difference.
• Imported 3D models retain the quality of their original source; increasing modeling resolution will not necessarily fix jagged or pixelated geometry.
• Preview Resolution only