Documentation for the "Select Polygons By Angle" Addon

Name: Select Polygons By Angle
Blender Version: 4.2.0
Category: Object
Addon Version: 1.1.0
Author: 3D CADence
Location: 3D View > Tool Shelf > Tool
Description: Tool for selecting polygons by angle
Support: OFFICIAL
License: GPL-3.0 or later

Overview

The "Select Polygons By Angle" addon is designed to streamline the process of selecting polygons in Blender based on the angle between their normals. This tool is particularly valuable for users who work with complex models and need to make precise selections across contiguous surfaces that meet specific angular criteria. The addon integrates seamlessly into Blender’s UI, offering a user-friendly experience with powerful features to enhance your modeling workflow.

Key Features

1. Angle-Based Polygon Selection:

   • Automatically selects polygons that meet a specified angle threshold relative to the currently selected polygon. This ensures precise and consistent selections across complex geometries.

2. Customizable Angle Threshold:

   • Adjust the angle threshold directly within the 3D Viewport, with a range from 0° to 180°. This feature allows you to fine-tune your selections to suit the specific needs of your project.

3. Hotkey Support for Angle Adjustment:

   • Increase or decrease the angle threshold using customizable hotkeys (default: Ctrl+Up and Ctrl+Down). This feature enables quick adjustments without interrupting your workflow.

4. Adjustable Angle Increment:

   • Customize the increment value for angle adjustments when using hotkeys. This provides additional control, allowing for more precise selection criteria.

5. Persistent Angle Display:

   • The current angle threshold is displayed at the top of the viewport whenever the addon is active, allowing you to monitor your settings even when working in different tabs or with other addons.

6. Seamless Workflow Integration:

   • Add new selections while holding Shift, or adjust the angle threshold to apply to new selections without deselecting previously selected polygons. This keeps your workflow smooth and efficient.

7. User-Friendly Interface:

   • The addon is located in the Tool tab of the 3D Viewport’s sidebar (N-panel), providing easy access to all functionalities.

How It Works

The "Select Polygons By Angle" addon evaluates the angle between adjacent polygons' normals and automatically selects those that fall within the specified angle threshold. This method is particularly useful for selecting polygons along smooth transitions or sharp edges, making it ideal for detailed modeling tasks where precision is key.

How to Use

1. Enable the Addon:

   • After installing the addon, navigate to the Tool tab in the N-panel of the 3D Viewport to access the "Select Polygons By Angle" panel.

2. Set the Angle Threshold:

   • Use the slider in the panel to set your desired angle threshold. This value determines which polygons will be selected based on their normal angles.

3. Activate Selection Mode:

   • Toggle the "Enable Select by Angle" checkbox to activate the angle-based selection mode.

4. Select Polygons:

   • Click on a polygon in Edit Mode. The addon will automatically select all adjacent polygons that meet the specified angle threshold.

5. Adjust on the Fly:

   • You can change the angle threshold or add new selections without losing your previous selections. Use the hotkeys to quickly adjust the threshold as needed.

Interface Overview

• Links:

  • The addon provides quick access to the author’s Blender Market page, ArtStation, Discord, and YouTube channels for support and updates.

• Keymap:

  • Users can assign custom hotkeys for toggling the angle-based selection mode and adjusting the angle threshold. This is available in the addon's preferences under the "Show Keymap" option.

Installation and Setup

1. Download the Addon:

   • Download the latest version of the addon from the provided link.

2. Install the Addon:

   • Open Blender, go to "Edit" > "Preferences" > "Add-ons" and click "Install". Select the downloaded .zip file.

3. Activate the Addon:

   • After installation, activate the addon by checking the box next to "Select Polygons By Angle" in the Add-ons panel.

4. Assign a Hotkey (Optional):

   • You can assign a hotkey for quick access to the angle-based selection mode and for adjusting the angle threshold from the "Keymap" section in the addon's preferences.

Support and Feedback

For support, feedback, and updates, visit the following:

• Discord Channel: Join here
• YouTube Channel: Watch tutorials and updates
• ArtStation: Explore more by the author

This addon is continuously supported and updated. We welcome your feedback and encourage you to join our community for the latest news and support.