The island detection feature in CHITUBOX is designed to swiftly identify islands and overhangs within a sliced model, reducing the likelihood of print failures. In this post, we’ll provide a comprehensive overview of this robust tool, including how CHITUBOX defines islands, instructions on how to utilize this feature effectively, and guidance on the necessary actions to take when islands are detected.
How CHITUBOX defines islands
In CHITUBOX, the island detection feature can be used after you slice the model. The “islands” it detects are the pixels in every layer of the sliced model that has no model parts or supports connected to it, regardless of their area.
The following image illustrates the definition above well. The red pixels (in layer 446) are islands because they touch nothing in the layer right above (445).
What to do after there are island detected.
When islands are detected, it’s important not to delete all of them right away, as this could potentially damage your model. Instead, follow these steps:
- Examine Layer by Layer: Review the islands on a layer-by-layer basis to determine their type. This approach helps you understand the nature of the islands and their impact on the model.
- Consider the Model Source: If the model was purchased and not created by you, detected islands might be false positives. In such cases, these may be overhangs rather than actual islands. Typically, STL designers test their models thoroughly before selling them.
- For Model Designers: This tool serves as a final check to prevent print failures during testing.
- Isolated Pixels vs. Unsupported Overhangs:
- Isolated Pixels: These are minor errors that can be safely removed by clicking the “Delete Island” button without affecting the model.
- Unsupported Overhangs: Removing these could compromise the integrity of the model. For these, it’s better to adjust your supports first. After making adjustments, re-slice the model and run island detection again.
By carefully addressing detected islands based on their type and source, you can ensure a more reliable printing process and avoid unnecessary model damage.
