Stratum

Convert 2D images into multi-layered STL files for multi-color 3D printing

Stratum is a desktop application designed to help users transform 2D images into STL files optimized for multi-color 3D printing. It uses image segmentation and layering techniques to generate 3D models that can be printed with multiple filaments.

Features

Intelligent Color Segmentation

• Image processing algorithms segment images by color.
• Shade generation based on filament transparency and layering.
• Live preview for quick feedback.

Filament Management System

• Filament library with material properties.
• Custom filament creation with transparency values.
• Layer count configuration for projects.
• Visual filament ordering.

Processing Controls

• Resolution modes for different quality levels.
• Adjustable detail preservation.
• Customizable layer height.
• Automatic scaling to target dimensions.

Interactive Preview System

• Real-time updates during adjustments.
• High-quality final preview rendering.
• Layer information on click.
• Zoom and pan for navigation.

Project Management

• Save and load projects with settings.
• Export STL files for printing.

Installation

Option 1: Pre-built Binary

1. Visit the Releases page.
2. Download the latest version for your OS.
3. Extract and run the executable.

Option 2: Install from Source

Requires Python 3.10 or newer.

# Clone the repository
git clone https://github.com/yourusername/Stratum.git
cd Stratum

# Install dependencies
pip install -r requirements.txt

# Run the application
python main.py

Dependencies

• nicegui: Web-based UI framework.
• numpy: Numerical computing.
• Pillow: Image processing.
• scikit-image: Image analysis.
• trimesh: 3D mesh generation.
• shapely: Geometric operations.
• matplotlib: Visualization.
• geopandas: Geospatial data processing.
• pywebview: Native window support.

How to Use

1. Load Your Image

   • Supports common image formats (PNG, JPG, etc.).
   • Works best with high-contrast images.

2. Add Filaments

   • Use the filament library to add filaments.
   • Adjust layer counts and order.

3. Configure Settings

   • Set layer height, base layers, and target size.

4. Preview and Refine

   • Use live preview for feedback.
   • Adjust settings as needed.

5. Export for Printing

   • Generate STL files for each filament layer.
   • Import files into a slicer for printing.

Best Practices

Image Preparation

• High-contrast images yield better results.
• Simple color schemes are recommended.

Filament Selection

• Start with 2-3 filaments.
• Use contrasting colors for clarity.

Print Settings

• Use <0.1 layer height for more color shades and details.
• Ensure good bed adhesion with base layers.

Technical Details

Color Processing Algorithm

1. Shade Generation: Creates intermediate colors.
2. Image Segmentation: Maps pixels to color combinations.
3. Polygon Creation: Converts regions into geometric shapes.
4. Mesh Generation: Builds 3D models.

Supported Formats

• Input: PNG, JPG, BMP, etc.
• Output: STL (one file per filament layer).

Command Line Options

# Run in browser mode
python main.py --browser

# Load a project file
python main.py --project /path/to/project.json

# Enable hot reload
python main.py --reload

Example Workflow

1. Prepare a high-contrast image.
2. Add base and detail filaments.
3. Configure layer height and size.
4. Preview and refine settings.
5. Export STL files.
6. Slice and print.

Troubleshooting

Common Issues

"Load image and add at least two filaments"

• Ensure an image is loaded and at least two filaments are added.

Rendered result appears blocky

• Increase resolution or use a higher-quality image.

Export takes too long

• Reduce detail level or resolution.

Colors don't match expectations

• Check filament transparency values and order.

Performance Tips

• Use live preview for quick adjustments.
• Limit image size and filament count for faster processing.

Contributing

We welcome contributions. You can help by:

• Reporting bugs.
• Suggesting features.
• Submitting pull requests.
• Improving documentation.

Development Setup

git clone https://github.com/yourusername/Stratum.git
cd Stratum
pip install -r requirements.txt
python main.py --reload

License

Stratum © 2025 by Philipp Seelos is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0

Acknowledgments

• Built with NiceGUI.
• Image processing powered by scikit-image.
• 3D mesh generation using trimesh.
• Geometric operations via Shapely.
• Portions of opacity calculation adapted from AutoForge – OptimizerHelper.py by hvoss-techfak, licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0. Changes include integration into generate_shades_td and removal of differentiable pipeline components.