import_step_file
Import STEP CAD files and convert them for 3D printing. Output STL for single solids, or colour-preserving 3MF for multi-body assemblies.
Instructions
Import a STEP (.step/.stp) CAD file and convert it for Kiln's mesh pipeline.
Converts STEP files using whichever backend is available (the
OCCT kernel that ``kiln install-step-backend`` sets up, or an
existing FreeCAD / Gmsh / CadQuery install).
**The output format follows what the file carries.** A plain
single-solid STEP becomes an STL. A STEP with part colours or
multiple bodies becomes ONE 3MF that keeps each part's colour,
name, and position — so a coloured CAD assembly arrives ready
for a multi-material print instead of flattened grey. Pass
``output_format="stl"`` or ``"3mf"`` to force either.
Use ``check_step_support`` first to verify that a conversion
backend is installed. After conversion, use ``diagnose_mesh``
or ``analyze_mesh_geometry`` to validate the output.
If this returns ``code="NO_BACKEND"``, read the ``remedy`` field
rather than guessing: when ``remedy.actionable_by_caller`` is
True, tell the user to run ``remedy.command`` (``kiln
install-step-backend``) — one command and it works. When it is
False the caller is on a hosted server and has nothing to
install; say so plainly and suggest ``report_issue``. Never
hand a hosted user an install instruction.
Args:
file_path: Path to the STEP/STP file.
output_format: ``"auto"`` (default — 3MF when colour or
multiple bodies are present, else STL), ``"stl"``, or
``"3mf"``.
merge_bodies: STL output only: if True, merge all bodies
into one STL; if False, export each body separately.
(3MF keeps bodies as separate named objects either way.)
output_dir: Directory for output files. Defaults to
the STEP file's parent directory.INLINE 3D STAGE: on success this tool also opens Kiln's interactive 3D stage — an inline viewer panel the user can orbit, zoom, and turn over — in hosts that render MCP Apps panels (Kiln's hosted connection attaches a browser stage link for hosts that don't). Oversized meshes are decimated automatically for the stage; the PNG preview is the floor, not the whole experience.
Input Schema
TableJSON Schema
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| file_path | Yes | ||
| output_dir | No | ||
| merge_bodies | No | ||
| output_format | No | auto |