3D Printing: Everything you need to know by Waller Dale

Author:Waller, Dale [Waller, Dale]
Language: eng
Format: azw3, mobi, epub
Published: 2015-12-13T16:00:00+00:00

Now that you have a basic understanding of what can be done with 3D printing, it is time to learn how you can use the 3D machines from home.

Chapter 5: 3D Printing at Home

Now that you have an understanding of 3D printing processes, as well as how they may be used, it is time to discuss 3D printing at home. In this chapter, you will learn the basic steps you need to make 3D objects at home, as well as some tips that will help you choose your software, choose the right 3D printer, and more.

Choosing 3D Modeling Software

Much of the software available for 3D printing is made for those who already have experience with designing 3D models. However, there are several applications that are great choices for beginners. Here are some of the ones you should check out.

3Dtin

This software allows you to draw directly from your Internet browser. It is one of the simplest types of software to use.

Google SketchUp

SketchUp has two advantages- it is fairly easy to use and it is free. It allows you to draw faces and edges, as well as extrude flat surfaces, creating a 3D form. It also works with Google Earth, which is very handy. This allows you to import scale-sized aerial photography from Google Earth, or to build models using SketchUp that can then be seen using Google Earth.

Tinkercad

There are 3 tools in the Tinkercad program, but these allow you to create a number of designs. Once you are done with your project, download the STL file and start printing.

OpenSCAD

This software is used for creating solid objects for use with 3D printing. It is free, which is great. Unlike most of the other options for beginners, OpenSCAD focuses on CAD aspects instead of aspects of artistic 3D modeling.

Blender

Blender is a powerful program that contains many of the features you would find in high-end 3D software. However, it is free, open source software that allows users to create and share their designs.

Practice

You should probably use software to practice designing months before you purchase a 3D printer. Even the quickest learners can take up to six months to learn how to design, and that is only basics. Once you begin to feel confident with your designs and know that 3D printing is something that you would like to do at home, then it will be time to buy a 3D printer.

Choosing the Right 3D Printer

There are several considerations that you must make before choosing a 3D printer to ensure that it is a good fit for your home projects, including the following things.

Technology

There are three common processes used for 3D printing at home, including Fused Disposition Modeling, Plastic Jet Printing, and Stereolithography. Each of these will allow you to create 3D objects, however, the process used may limit some of your designs. Do your research to see if you will be able to make the objects that you are interested in using specific printing processes before you buy a 3D printer.

Material

Most printers will be compatible with one material, or possibly a few select materials.

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