From: Tom Goddard <goddard@sonic.net>
Date: Monday, May 13, 2024 at 1:47 PM
To: Joshua Hori <jhori@ucdavis.edu>
Cc: chimerax-users@cgl.ucsf.edu <chimerax-users@cgl.ucsf.edu>
Subject: Re: [chimerax-users] Questions about ChimeraX
Hi Joshua,
Yes ChimeraX can read PDB and output STL for 3D printing (single color, since STL does not include colors) or for other uses. For example use ChimeraX commands to open a PDB model and save as STL
ChimeraX also outputs GLTF (.glb files) which includes color information and may be useful for 3D printing. There are lots choices for styles (spheres, ribbons, surfaces) and coloring of PDB atomic models. For styles like ribbons that would be too fragile to print you may add struts with the ChimeraX struts command.
ChimeraX also directly can use virtual reality headsets, either standalone with Quest 2,3,Pro
or connected to a Windows PC
I recommend the standalone use since it can be used with any computer (e.g. Mac laptop) to send molecular models to Quest headsets.
On May 13, 2024, at 12:52 PM, Joshua Hori via ChimeraX-users <chimerax-users@cgl.ucsf.edu> wrote:
I wanted to reach out and inquire about the ChimeraX tool. I see that it has the ability to save in multiple different formats, but I have a question about conversion into alternative formats.
I see that it works with PDB files, which are used for modeling in some VR and AR environments such as Calcflow and Nanome. Would ChimeraX have the ability to import PDB files and export them as STL files for 3D printing? I ask this as I research ways to make AR and VR more accessible to classrooms.
Accessible Technology Coordinator
Information Educational Technology
Academic Technology Services