HELP....Changing a part orientation

[CastleWorks]

I have posted on this previsouly but have not had any replies...perhaps I am not describing my issue properly.

I have imported an STL file into Cut3D, in this case a table leg that is 3"x3"x28". When I scanned the table leg standing straight up the the STL file was generated so that Z axis was 28" high and the XY was 3x3. Rescanning it laying down is not a practical option in this case.

Obviously I cannot cut this on my CNC with a Z axis that great so I want to lay the part down and chage what Cut3D thinks is the "top" of the part

Has anyone else had this issue? I have tried editing the STL in AutoDesk Inventor but it does not allow you to roate a part independant of the coordinate system. Being able to redefine the part in relationship to the coordinate system cannot be that uncommon.

Any help is appreciated

[eph210]

When you import a file into cut3d you have to choose an orientation on the first screen. As these orientations are essentially the six faces of a cube you should find two of them that orient your model as required. I am not familiar with inventor but some 3d programs, such as hexagon, allow you to re-define the axes when you export the file, converting Z into -Y for instance.
I hope this helps
Euan

[CastleWorks]

Hi Euan,

Thanks for the input, the more I look at this, I think the best solution is going to be to re define the coordinate system prior to exporting the STL file. It is an odd orientation and none of the 6 standard orientations in Cut3D fit is well.

Kevin