We’re implementing an automated model-prep pipeline powered by the CHITUBOX SDK to standardize scaling, orientation, supports, hollowing with drain holes, layout, slicing, and instant previews for MSLA printing.
What we’re building
AutoPrep is a local service that turns a customer STL into a print-ready .ctb (plus an optional .chitubox project and a preview image) with zero manual clicks.
Pipeline steps
- Import STL
- Scale (fit to dimension or % target)
- Auto-Orient (reduce islands, optimize peel)
- Auto-Support (named presets per printer/resin)
- Hollow (configurable wall thickness)
- Drain Holes (diameter, count, placement rules)
- Auto-Layout (for multi-part plates)
- Slice + Save (.ctb / project)
- Return a preview image for QA
Why SDK access matters
- Reliability: official APIs beat brittle UI scripting.
- Consistency: exact presets matched to printer + resin.
- Throughput: batch prep during peak order spikes.
- Quality: predictable supports, hollowing, and hole placement.
Technical overview
- Runs as a local CLI + REST microservice on the workstation attached to our printers.
- Our dashboard / n8n flows send a JSON job; the service returns file paths and a preview image.
- Supports multiple printer/resin profiles and named support presets.