How to convert STL file to a 3D solid geometry

[Xinjie Duan]

Hello,

I have a vasculature model in STL format. I am wondering if I can use SimVascular to convert it into 3D solid geometry, such as iges or sat format. I have imported the STL into SimVascular, but I wasn't able to figure out how to generate centerlines and loft to create a solid geometry. Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated!

Thanks,
Jay

[Hongzhi Lan]

Hi Jay,

After importing a stl model, it's converted to a PolyData model in SimVascular. Currently, SimVascular can't convert a PolyData model to a CAD model.

To generate centerlines for a polydata model, there are two situations:
1. the model just has walls, no cap faces (inlets, outlets)), you can right click the model in the Data Manager and select "Extract Path". It may take a couple of minutes to create the centerlines and add to the folder "Paths".
2. the model has a closed surface. You need to Extract faces and assign correct types to the faces (wall or cap), then repeat 1.

Thanks,
Hongzhi

SimVascular Development Team

[Joseph Roshan]

Hi,
I have an STL file of an artery. What is the remedy to do a CFD simulation for that in Simvascular?!

[Adam Updegrove]

Hi,

Follow Hongzhi's instructions above (step 2.) to create a SimVascular model. Then you will create a mesh, apply appropriate boundary conditions and run a blood flow simulation. For more information about these steps, check out our documentation: http://simvascular.github.io/docsQuickGuide.html

Thanks!

SimVascular Development Team

[Joseph Roshan]

Hey thanks,

I certainly did them, but the problem is that when I import the STL file under “model” branch from the Data Manager box, doubble clicking on the imported model leads to opening a new window which does NOT contain even any track of the model but just its name(vein) and type(Polydata)!!! Actually when I click on the “create model” in the new window nothing happens!!! Also, when I right click on the STL file under MODEL, there is not an option regarding “extracting faces”, instead we have “extract path” which when I choose it, the software tells that it’s not a valid data. It maybe a bug related to the last release. I could send the file to you too!

[Adam Updegrove]

Yes, you can either post a screenshot of what you mean, or send me your .stl. updega2@berkeley.edu. I would be willing to check it out and see what you mean.

Thanks!

SimVascular Development Team

[Joseph Roshan]

I’ve just sent you the file! Pls check that out!

[Adam Updegrove]

It imported fine for me. You cannot "Create a Model" because that is done from segmentations.

The "Extraction of Faces" is done in the Model panel that pops up. Take a look at the right side of the window that I boxed in red in the attached screenshot.

I extracted the faces of the model and applied a color to each face. Let me know if you can't get this to work as well.

Thanks!

SimVascular Development Team

[Joseph Roshan]

It worked nicely! I am happy with that! Thanks for your kind cooperation.

[shubham shinde]

Hi Dr Hamed,

I am getting the same problem with my .stl model. When I press "Extract path" it does nothing and says invalid data. How did you make it work for you?

Thank you in advance,
Shubham