STL to XYZ: Resources
Provided below is a curated list of supplementary resources focusing on the interoperability and exchange between STL and XYZ files. Leverage these to streamline the STL to XYZ files conversion.
STL File
The STL (STereoLithography) file format, developed by 3D Systems, a global leader in the 3D printing industry, exclusively contains triangular mesh data. It does not include information on face color, texture, transparency, and named groups. Although it is possible to assign RGB color values to individual vertices, it’s important to note that our STL file converter, Autoconverter software, currently does not support this extension. STL files can be saved in either binary or ASCII text formats, with the binary format being preferred due to its significant reduction in file size. Additionally, it’s worth noting that triangles in STL files are always defined in millimeters, and our STL converter will perform the necessary units conversion if required.
Point Cloud XYZ File
The XYZ (Point cloud data) file extension is used for ASCII text files that contain point cloud data. Each row in an XYZ file consists of 3D point coordinates, typically separated by a special character like a TAB. Optionally, the XYZ file may also include 3D normal vector coordinates for each point. Our primary XYZ file converter, Autoconverter software, can automatically reconstruct mesh surfaces from point cloud data. Additionally, Autoshaper software, another one of our XYZ file converters, allows for the reconstruction of smooth NURBS surfaces from scattered points stored in the XYZ file. It’s worth noting that point cloud data may also use alternative file extensions such as ASC or TXT.