Object import and import parameters

The first step in the nesting workflow is to import the 3D models you created using an external CAD application. These are typically available as STL files.

Supported file types for object import
File type	Note
STL	Open standard file format for 3D models in the dental field.
cam5zip	File format of Ivoclar, which dentalcam uses for Ivotionjobs.

Metadata files for objects

When exporting objects, CAD applications can add files containing metadata about the exported data that describe the properties of the objects in a machine-readable format. These include, for example, the indication, the material, or important geometric features.

There are 2 categories of metadata files:

Metadata for prefabricated abutments

Prefabricated abutments require special metadata files. Without them, an import is not possible. Importing this metadata is always activated.

CAD applications supported for importing metadata for prefabricated abutments
CAD application	File type for metadata
3Shape	xml
DWOS (Dental Wings) – partially	xml
exocad	constructioninfo
inLab (Sirona)	sci

Metadata for all other indications

dentalcam can use these general metadata files to automatically set certain manufacturing parameters, thereby speeding up the import process. This metadata is optional, and you can deactivate the import in the settings.

Supported CAD applications for importing general metadata
CAD application	File type for metadata
exocad	constructioninfo

Import parameters

You must specify the following parameters when importing objects:

Indication

The various object types (crowns, bridges, etc.) are referred to as indications. Each object must be assigned the correct indication so that dentalcam can calculate the correct manufacturing strategy.

Automatic search for cavities/drill holes

dentalcam can automatically detect cavities/drill holes in objects. For proper manufacturing, cavities and drill holes must be correctly identified. By default, dentalcam searches only for cavities/drill holes in areas where they are typically found as indications. If an object does not contain a cavity or drill hole, you can manually deactivate the search to save time.

Manufacturing quality

The manufacturing quality affects the path distance when processing outer surfaces. Fits, drillings and cavities are always machined with the highest quality. A higher manufacturing quality results in finer outer surfaces, but also in higher manufacturing time.