Opening GLTF Files
To take the first step in your GLTF-to-STL conversion, launch the MeshInspector program. Once the workspace opens, navigate to the ‘Home tab’ and click ’Open Files.’ Then, choose your GLTF model and allow MeshInspector to load it, preparing it for further processing and export.
Browsing GLTFs
MeshInspector will open a file dialog for selecting your GLTF model. You may notice that GLTF files have a distinct structure. That is, they are based on JSON, which stores information about geometry, materials, and scene hierarchy. Click Browse, find your file, and confirm the selection to proceed.
Viewing GLTF Files
After your GLTF model is loaded, MeshInspector will render it directly in the main viewport. The object appears with its original textures, materials, and lighting — similar to the crocodile model shown here. On the left-hand side, the ’Scene Tree’ provides a structured view of all imported elements.
Exporting Components
Now it’s time to convert your GLTF model into the desired format. In the Scene Tree, locate the object you wish to export. Right-click on it to select it for conversion, then choose ’Export’ from the context menu, as shown. This action opens the export dialog.
Combining for Export
If your GLTF model contains several separate elements, you can merge them before exporting. In the Scene Tree, select all the parts to include, right-click, and choose ’Group.’ Then, right-click the created group and select ’Combine Subtree.’ This will fuse the elements.
Setting STL Format
After selecting ’Export,’ a ’Save File’ dialog will open. Here, you can rename your file if necessary and expand the ’Extension’ dropdown menu. From the available options, choose .stl as the output format. Once everything is set, click ’Save.’ MeshInspector will begin converting your GLTF model into a single STL file.
Inspecting the STL Size
After the export finishes, it would be logical to verify that your model features correct proportions. Open the newly created .stl file and go to the ’Inspect’ tab. Then select ’Bounding Box.’ This tool will display your object’s current dimensions and spatial boundaries, helping you confirm that the scale and volume remain adequate.
Adjusting the STL Size
If your model appears oversized or undersized after inspection, visit the ‘Transform’ panel. There, try to Scale via the highlighted bar. When the proportions look right, confirm the adjustment by applying the changes through the checkbox. This ensures that your STL file will fit seamlessly into future 3D data and printing workflows.
