In FreeCAD, the “Check Geometry” tool (also called “Part → Check Geometry”) is used to analyze and validate 3D shapes for errors like non-manifold edges, self-intersections, or invalid topology. This is especially useful before performing Boolean operations (Union, Cut, Common) or exporting to other formats (STEP, STL).
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How to Use Check Geometry in FreeCAD-:
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Select the Object
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In the Model Tree or 3D View, select the object you want to check (e.g., a Part or PartDesign Body).
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Run the Check Geometry Tool
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Go to the Part Workbench.
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Click Part → Check Geometry (or find it in the toolbar).
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Review the Results-:
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A dialog box will appear showing any errors or warnings.
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Expand the “Issues” section to see details like:
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Self-intersections (invalid for Booleans)
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Non-manifold edges (edges shared by more than two faces)
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Invalid faces or edges (degenerate geometry)
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Fix Issues (If Found)-:
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Refine the shape (
Part → Refine Shape). -
Use “Part → Shape Builder” to repair gaps.
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Remodel problematic areas manually.
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Common Errors & Fixes-:
| Error Type | Possible Fix |
|---|---|
| Self-intersections | Use Part → Refine Shape or remodel the intersecting area. |
| Non-manifold edges | Ensure no extra edges/faces exist; use Part → Explode Compound to inspect. |
| Missing/Invalid faces | Check for gaps in sketches; rebuild the extrusion. |
| “Not a solid” error | Ensure the shape is watertight (no holes); use Part → Convert to Solid. |
Additional Tips-:
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Use “Part → Validate Shape” for deeper analysis (available in Python console via
Shape.check()). -
For STL exports, ensure the mesh is error-free (
Mesh → Analyze → Evaluate & Repair). -
Boolean operations fail? Check geometry first, then try
Part → Defeaturingto remove problematic edges.
💡 Pro Tips for Model Validation-:
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Deep Analysis: For a more thorough inspection, use the Part → Validate Shape tool. You can also access this function via the Python console using
Shape.check(). -
Prepare for Export: Before exporting to STL, ensure your solid is error-free. If working with meshes, use Mesh → Analyze → Evaluate & Repair.
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Troubleshoot Operations: If Boolean operations (like Union or Cut) are failing, run the Check Geometry tool first. If problematic edges are found, you can try using Part → Defeaturing to remove them.
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