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Lacados LAKManual Vectric Aspire V12

How to import and export 3D data in Vectric software | General Topics

Overview

Section titled “Overview”

This video demonstrates how to import 3D data into Vectric software, covering both native clipart (.v3m) and external model files (e.g., STL). It explains how to orient, scale, and position imported models relative to the job material plane before placement.

Steps

Section titled “Steps”

  1. Create a new job
    Set job dimensions, material thickness, Z-zero position, XY origin, and use high modeling resolution for working with 3D models.

  2. Import clipart from the Clipart tab

    • Browse clipart sections on the left; files are .v3m format.
    • Add an external clipart folder using the Add Folder button.
    • Import by:
      • Double-clicking the clipart (centers it on the workspace).
      • Dragging and dropping it onto the worksheet.
      • Right-clicking the clipart and selecting Import to Level (choose current or new level).
    • Use transform handles to move, scale, and rotate the imported clipart.

  3. Import a component / 3D model

    • Go to the Design tab and click Import a Component or 3D Model.
    • Select a supported file (e.g., .v3m, STL) and click Open.
    • The import form appears for adjusting the model.

  4. Set orientation

    • Choose a face from the Initial Orientation list: Top, Bottom, Front, Back, Left, Right.
    • Use the red/green/blue handles to rotate the model manually.
    • Rotate around the Z axis using the -180/-90/90/180 buttons if needed.
    • The selected orientation determines which face points upward — the most detailed face should face the cutter (Z axis).

  5. Set model size

    • Modify X, Y, or Z values and click Apply.
    • Keep Lock X/Y/Z ratio on to preserve proportions.
    • Turn locking off only if intentionally stretching/squashing a single axis.
    • Select the correct Units (mm or inches) since STL files do not carry unit information.
    • Use Center Model and Scale mm/in buttons to correct unit interpretation.

  6. Position relative to the modeling plane

    • Use the slider or enter a Depth Below Top value to move the model up or down.
    • Optionally enable Discard Data Below Zero Plane — note this permanently removes any geometry below the plane, so keep the model above the plane to avoid losing detail.
    • Click Position and Import to place the model in the job.

  7. Manipulate after import

    • The imported model becomes an editable component in the 3D view, with transform handles for further repositioning, scaling, and rotation.

Key Points / Warnings

Section titled “Key Points / Warnings”
  • Aspire vs. VCarve Desktop: Aspire has significantly more 3D modeling tools than VCarve Desktop; the available tools differ between products.
  • Clipart locations: Clipart can be loaded from local folders, the software’s default clipart, and your V&Co account (see related videos).
  • Orientation matters: The face pointing upward will receive the most machining detail because the cutter approaches from Z.
  • STL units are ambiguous: Always verify the units used to design the original file; otherwise the model can be imported at the wrong scale.
  • Proportional scaling: Use Lock X/Y/Z ratio unless deliberately deforming the model.
  • Zero-plane discard: Enable Discard Data Below Zero Plane only if you are certain no geometry should exist below the plane; parts of the model may disappear unexpectedly.
  • Model placement: The default import position is relative to the job origin (e.g., bottom-left), so adjust size and position before confirming the import.