Keep the original 3D model and save a separate editable project before converting an imported model into a bitmap. Once converted, the image cannot provide the same model-orientation and depth-map adjustment controls. Treat conversion as a delivery step after the view, size and resolution have been checked.
LightBurn's September 16 announcement introduces model import in LightBurn 2.2 RC1 Early Access and explicitly describes this loss of adjustment after conversion. This is optional software evaluation, untested here on TYVOK hardware; retain your approved stable production workflow.
Keep three different files for three different purposes
The native model is your source geometry. The editable LightBurn project records the chosen interpretation of that geometry. The resulting bitmap is a pixel image for later image preparation. Keeping all three avoids rebuilding a view from memory when a customer asks to turn an object slightly or change its apparent proportions.
| File to retain | What it preserves | X1S preparation check |
|---|---|---|
| Original model | Original three-dimensional geometry | Confirm permission to use the model |
| Preconversion project | Editable imported model and chosen view | Record intended physical image size |
| Separate bitmap version | Resulting pixels for image work | Inspect cropping, background and detail |
Use names that identify the view and intended dimensions. A file called “final” provides little help when several orientations exist. Keep the model-containing project out of the folder where you routinely overwrite flattened image exports.
Decide what the image should show
The official model-import documentation describes orientation, scaling and depth-map controls. Examine the shape from the intended viewing direction before choosing resolution. Features hidden behind another surface will not become visible simply because the output has more pixels.
Look closely at the background and silhouette. A dark background can change the image's intended appearance and later processing choices. Review transparent-background and inversion options deliberately; do not assume that an attractive preview corresponds to suitable machine settings.
Increasing image dimensions is also different from changing the model's orientation. If you need a side view instead of a front view, return to the editable source. Enlarging a flattened image cannot reconstruct hidden geometry or restore model controls.
What this means for TYVOK X1S 2026
The X1S 2026 page describes an expandable large-format platform, starting at 800 × 800 mm. That workspace can inform a two-dimensional artwork layout. Importing a 3D file does not add Z-axis motion, calibrated relief depth or a supported sliced-engraving process to this machine.
Choose between continuous relief and separately cut layered artwork before selecting the production method. This workflow concerns preserving an editable image source. It does not qualify the resulting image for a particular engraving depth.
Can I recover model rotation from the converted bitmap?
Reopen the saved model-containing project or reimport the original model. The flattened pixels are no longer the editable 3D object, so retaining the source is the reliable recovery route.
Should I trace the depth map into lines?
Only if lines serve your intended artwork. Tonal images and line drawings convey different information. If you experiment with tracing, inspect unwanted center-line branches and preserve the untraced image for comparison.