With the ever-increasing popularity of 3D technology, you most probably also want to learn how to make printer models using a 3D printer. Therefore, in this article, we are going to take you through how you can make use of this wonderful invention to create unique models that you desire. Consequently, thanks to this step by step guide, you will be in a position to design and print a 3D object using online printing services as well as a 3D modeling program.
Starting Out
There are numerous 3D modeling software to choose from, including Blender, Autodesk 3DS Max, and Google Sketchup. The commands or settings of this software are fairly identical, so you should not have any problem understanding the process when designing and creating your 3D model. Here is a detailed explanation of the steps to follow when creating a 3D printer model.
Step 1: Launch the modeling program
Before you start on your project, first change that the program settings to confirm the units are accurate to make sure you print the 3D model using a correct scale. Subsequently, check whether your grind lines have been set up as this allows the easy creation and manipulation of your 3D models depending on the desired units.
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You should opt for smaller scales such as millimeters instead of inches as most 3D printed models require precise details or are small. Additionally, this assists you to remain conscious of the wall’s maximum thickness as well as other measurements.
If you are less conversant with the 3D printer, stick to the default measuring system like generic or metric. However, feel free to change to whatever system that is you think is simpler.
Step 2: Plan your design
You must plan your design before embarking on creating your 3D printer model irrespective of its use. The two most vital things you need to consider are detail as well as minimum wall thickness. However, these measurements differ depending on the material and printer you use.
Minimum wall thickness is the width of the thinnest section on your 3D model, which needs to be thick enough for you to print in the chosen material. Moreover, you need to consider the thickness of your model’s supporting parts, for example, changing the width of a wine glass you are designing to 5mm instead of 1mm would make the bigger structure above more robust.
You also need to deliberate on the level of detail since 3D printers can only achieve a particular level of detail depending on the speed of the print. Similar to standard printers, 3D printers do not come with an infinite resolution, so you should carry out thorough research before deciding how much detail you want on your object. Moreover, for the moving parts, you should compare the clearance between parts to prevent them from fusing by accident while printing.
Nevertheless, everything usually depends on the material you decide to make use of, with different materials having different details levels, clearance threshold as well as wall thickness.
Step 3: Build your 3D model
It is at this step that you start creating your 3D model. Depending on your preference, you have numerous designs to choose from that are complex and simple. Consequently, you can create anything you want. However, you must never place any unnecessary pressure on yourself to build a 3D model that is great looking as everything takes time to learn. Therefore, give your best and know the most important things is you being content with the outcome.
Step 4: Make preparations for printing
You need to export your 3D model into an ideal file format for the printing to be done correctly. Some of the formats available to choose from include .x3d, stl, zip, wrl, .x3db, x3dv, as well as .dae. Thus, it is up to you to decide which of these formats you prefer the most.
The process of exporting in most programs is reasonably straightforward, and it usually entails going to File>Export in the 3D modeling software.
Step 5: Upload
The file uploading process usually differs depending on your preferred printing service. For most 3D modeling programs, once you have registered, all you need to log in to your account to complete the upload. After you have logged in, press the “Upload” button typically found below your username and then press “Browse” to pick the file you want.
Subsequently, enter a description and a title, and after you do this, choose the categories and galleries you wish your 3D model to be put and then add some tags. Go ahead and press “Upload” after checking the two boxes located at the bottom, and in five minutes, an email will be sent to you telling you whether or not your 3D model has been uploaded successfully.
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Step 6: Print your 3D model
This is the final step when creating 3D printer models, and to locate your model page, you need to click “My Designs” on the toolbar. After that, click on your design’s title to gain access to its page and choose the material you want your model to be in on the model page, then press the button “Order Now” for it to be added to your cart. Usually, the price of the 3D models varies deepening on the material you select. After checking out, you will need to wait for approximately ten days to get your 3D model.
Conclusion
If you are interested in making your 3D printer models, you are now in a better position to do so thanks to this comprehensive guide on all the steps you need to follow. Therefore, you will get to join in on the fun and the thrill this innovative technology has to offer as you make your own unique set of 3D objects. However, the learning process takes time, so you should give yourself some time to understand this skill, and consequently, you will be able to come up with detailed and breathtaking 3D printer models. Additionally, knowing how to make 3D models will give you bragging rights over friends and family who are fascinated by this technology but take measures to learn how to make 3D printer models.
