2D→3D extrusion feature

[gioelemo]

For my chatbot, I currently use a script that extrudes 2D topology models (from .npy files) into 3D geometries.

The end goal is to 3D print the resulting models using the lab's printers – for now mainly with EngiBench's Beams2D, but eventually with the other EngiBench problem types as well.

Would it be feasible to add a 2D→3D extrusion feature to XelToFab and/or EngiBench, similar to what my script does?

Requirements:

• Generated 3D printed file should be printable (more connected as possible) (ideally .stl file)
• Extrusion value can be changed
• Support for EngiBench problems

[xarthurx]

Good suggestion.

@gioelemo
One question, for such use case, how do you decide the overall dimension for the print?
Do you:

• A: assign a size to the grid unit (1 unit = 1mm)
• B: assign the overall bounding box size (xmin, ymin, xmax, ymax)?

[gioelemo]

@xarthurx I am currently using approach A and scaling directly in the slicer if needed.

[xarthurx]

Done by PR: #3

[xarthurx]

@gioelemo Please give it a test on v0.3.5.

docs here: https://xel-to-fab.vercel.app/docs/api/extrude-2d

[gioelemo]

@xarthurx Thanks a lot! Looks very good to me. Are you planning to add the extrude-2d function in the EngiBench bridge as well?

[xarthurx]

@xarthurx Thanks a lot! Looks very good to me. Are you planning to add the extrude-2d function in the EngiBench bridge as well?

Mark and I briefly discussed about the level of integration, and we think that at the current level, better not to pollute the EngiBench too much before it is more stable.

xeltofab is now an optional dependency to EngiBench, so you can install both for your project together, and calling the extrude-2d function shouldn't be a problem.

God, please let me know if you encounter any issues.
You can also submit issues in the Engibench repo if you need deeper integration.

[gioelemo]

Thanks for your answer! I will call directly the function as you suggested.