The function of zebra stripes is to simulate the light inspection. This inspection is typically used to inspect the surface of a car. Light inspection is done by shining parallel lights unto the inspected surface. The reflection of the lights would form a contour on the surface, making any imperfections easily detected.
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| The Famous Light Inspection Photography on Aston Martin Bodywork Source: Christopher Furlong, Getty Image |
When the zebra stripes function is activated, a contour profile is shown on all surfaces of your model. Even this function might not be particularly useful for solid modelling, it is a very useful function to make good surface model.
Below is an example of using the zebra stripes function to identify your surface model.
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| Bad Model. Notice discontinuities of the stripes between top and bottom door panel. Spiral or circular pattern indicate that the surface has dent/bulge |
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| Good model. Notice how the stripe flow smoothly between the front and rear door panel. |
