Self-intersecting surfaces

[Anonymous]

In making a tree I created a bunch of branches which I just pushed into the trunk. This has now created a problem as I am unable to turn the tree into a solid as I have self intersecting surfaces that you can see below. 

I am looking for an easy way to trim the mesh where the branch intersects the trunk of the tree. What would be the quickest way of doing this?

[maxim_k]

Maybe convert meshes to solids? Than use SUBTRACT command, or even UNION them?

Maxim

[Anonymous]

Can't convert to solids as there are intersects, gives an error command. 

Someone helped me with the file earlier on, not sure what they did but each of the individual meshes are now a single mesh. So not able to use the union command. 

[maxim_k]

Seems without having your drawing at hand I cannot help you, because each situation could be unique.

Maxim

[Anonymous]

File attached. 

[maxim_k]

OK, I will look at it later today , as for now I'm not near my Mac.

Maxim

[maxim_k · Accepted solution]

I looked at your drawing and I'm afraid there is no way back after everything was converted in a single mesh object, unless you explode to individual faces. But then you will loose model integrity.
Unfortunately you cannot trim meshes in AutoCAD unless you convert them to solids or surfaces.
Vicious circle....

Maxim

[Anonymous]

I removed all of the extra branches to get back to the original file. I have exploded the file and now trying to union. When I try union it says "At least 2 solids, surfaces, or coplanar regions must be selected.".

What am I supposed to be doing here?

[maxim_k]

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@Anonymous wrote:

I removed all of the extra branches to get back to the original file. I have exploded the file and now trying to union. When I try union it says "At least 2 solids, surfaces, or coplanar regions must be selected.".

What am I supposed to be doing here?

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You can use UNION command in AutoCAD only with "solids, surfaces, or coplanar regions", so you need to create them.

I attached STL file from your tree, which I exported from Rhino for Mac.

Maxim