Surface Diagnostics

SurfAce Diagnostics (SD) is complete set of diagnostic tools with a single click UI.

Why

To help you achieve the next level of surface quality when subdivision modeling technical surfaces with complex curvature (Automotive, Product Design, Game Assets, etc.).

How

All diagnostic tools in this extension are based on Material or Geometry Nodes. While they are usable as standalone assets, this extension provides an efficient, single-click UI in the side panel. Apply, hide, delete, and tweak everything from one place.

What

Zebra is more reliable way to check reflections than standard matcaps.

Isoangle creates lines/bands of constant angle relative to a reference vector.

Sections creates helper object with GN modifier, referencing active object. In Legacy mode (add-on preferences), this is material override instead. (faster, less flexible)

Cut is GN modifier with bisect functionality. In Legacy mode (add-on preferences), this is material override instead. (faster, less flexible)
Proximity measures local distance to a reference object and outputs gradient as material, optionally text values.

Draft Displays angles relative to a reference object/vector as material gradient

Radius measures local surface curvature and highlights the minimal and maximal radius based on a given threshold. Useful for manufacturing checks. Optionally displays text values.

Curvature shows the local curvature on the active object. Types include: Mean, Gaussian, Minimal, and Maximal. Optionally displays bands instead of smooth gradients.

Curvature Graph creates a helper object with a GN modifier referencing the active object's selected edges. It measures curvature on a line, either along surface normals or as a circumcircle (curve type).

Angle graph visualizes local angles on the active object's selected edges.

FAQ

• Zebra and Isoangle look jagged - turn on "High Quality Normals" in render settings or via addon UI shortcut in
• I need it for Blender 4.2 or older - Not possible with this version, it uses new geometry nodes in B 4.5+. If you want older version of this addon you can buy it on Superhive.
• Some diagnostics are not visible in edit mode - Material types are only visible in shaded/rendered mode. (geometry) Sections, Cut, Cgraph, Agraph are geometry - work in edit mode.
• Colored Curves? - In Blender 4.5+ it is possible to display wires/curves in random or object colors. (viewport shading options) There is a shortcut for Object color in add-on UI.

Support

• Join Discord for help, bug report and discussion
• Write an email - jlbsocial@pm.me
• If you want to support my work, please check out my Superhive page.