How I Reduce Z Height of a 3D model in Vectric VCarve

Overview

This guide shows several methods for reducing the Z height/thickness of a 3D model in Vectric VCarve/Aspire, using a deer head model reduced from roughly 3.8 inches to 0.75 inches. The best method uses slicing to preserve details that would otherwise be flattened, especially protruding features like a snout.

Steps

1. Set up the job

   • Open VCarve 12.5 (or Aspire).
   • Create a normal single-sided job.
   • Use a material thickness of 1 inch to make height comparisons easier.

2. Import and scale the model

   • Import the 3D model (e.g. deer head).
   • Set the desired X/Y size; the Z height changes proportionally.
   • Target final model thickness: 0.75 inches.

3. Option 1: Scale Z during import

   • In the import window, uncheck the XYZ proportional lock.
   • Set Z dimension to 0.75.
   • Center the model in the material, move the slider all the way down, and import.
   • Result: model is reduced, but details like the snout look squashed.

4. Option 2: Change component shape height after import

   • Import the model with XYZ proportions locked.
   • In the Component Tree, double-click the component.
   • Change Shape Height from 3.85 to 0.75.
   • Result: similar squashed appearance.

5. Option 3: Adjust shape height in the 3D view

   • Double-click the 3D model in the 3D view.
   • Select the shape-height icon.
   • Lower the shape height value.
   • Do not change base heights, or the model will drop below the Z zero plane.
   • Result: still squashes the model down.

6. Option 4: Extrude tool (Aspire only)

   • Select the model and use the Extrude icon.
   • Drag the Z height slider to reduce thickness.
   • Downside: no exact numeric entry for thickness.
   • Result: not ideal for controlled reduction.

7. Option 5: Duplicate and scale Z

   • In the Component Tree, right-click the model and duplicate it.
   • Hide the original component.
   • Select the copy and use scale Z or exact size to set 0.75 inches.
   • Result: still flattens the snout.

8. Option 6: Slicing method (recommended, VCarve/Aspire)

   • Select the model.
   • Choose the Slice Model icon.
   • Set each slice thickness to 0.25 inches.
   • No boundary vector needed.
   • Click Slice.
   • The Component Tree now shows the original model plus multiple slices.
   • Hide the original model, select all slices, and move them aside for comparison.
   • Edit each slice’s Shape Height individually:
     • First several slices: 0.02
     • Slices 8–9: 0.03
     • Slices 10–11: 0.04
     • Slice 12: 0.05
     • Slice 13: 0.07
     • Slice 14: 0.10
     • Slice 15: 0.15
     • Last slice: 0.10
   • Total final thickness: 0.75 inches.
   • This preserves the snout because the upper slices are left thicker.

9. **Verify and position