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I have created a vector illustration that includes 3D, masks, and a lot of hidden geometry. I would like to turn it into a simplified version that only includes the geometry that you see. How do I do this?
I've moved it all to one layer, expanded and outlined everything, and grouped it all together but there are still a lot of unseen "hidden" paths that make the file unnecessarily large and could cause problems if I wanted to have it laser cut or something.
How can I simplify it so only the visible geometry exists? (I tried the trim tool but it released a clipping mask still present in the object and didn't remove all of the unseen paths anyway.)
The only way I can think of would be to export it as a png and then image trace that. That method would probably not be as accurate as I want though.
I've included two screenshots. The first is the image as it appears. The second is the image selected so you can see all the unnecessary paths.
I hope my question is clear. Thank you for your time!
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Before these steps:
flatten transparency, convert strokes into fills
That means: only working with fills will give you the desired simplified result.
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Furthermore: the mentioned "Simplify Path" option is definitely NOT an option for your artwork.
The previous answer given by @Naini313850227dc3 seems to be an ChatGPT answer...
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It's not even an answer, it is word soup.
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I was of the same opinion.
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What I can suggest. IMHO you can use this two methods:
How to create and work with Live Paint groups in Illustrator (adobe.com)
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If expanding the strokes and turning them into shapes is an option, then you could do that. You need to first Object > Flatten transparency (as pixxxelschubser wrote) and turn on "Outline strokes". Then select all and hit the button "Merge" in the pathfinder panel (this is not the top left button). When that is done, you might want to search for invisible objects (paths that have "None" set as fill and stroke) and delete them.