How to create a model for a 3D printer

Modern technologies are actively developing, being introduced into various spheres of human activity and becoming commonplace in every home. They never cease to amaze and capture the imagination of users. Relatively recently, a printer was invented that was capable of creating ready-made figures in three-dimensional format. This took science and industry one step forward in development.

Since we are not talking about flat (two-dimensional) display of files and documents, but about work in volume, special sketches or models are required for its implementation. This creates some difficulties in operating the equipment. Using ready-made models, the printer recognizes the future image of the product and creates it from special polymer materials. In our article we will look at possible ways to create and use ready-made models for printing.

IMPORTANT: For beginners, in the first stages of operation, you should learn how to work with workpieces. To create your own figures, you need computer knowledge and work with various programming languages.

How to create a model for a 3D printer?

If you have such a device at home, or your professional activity involves working in this area, you should learn how to use and use the equipment correctly. Without special software, drivers and applications, work will not be carried out.The use of sketches also plays an important role, without which the printer will not perform its functions. You can do them as follows:

1. Start your computer and connect the printer. The first time you use it, you must download the software installation package. It is located on the disk that comes with the equipment.
2. After successful pairing, you should install one of the applications with a set of three-dimensional layouts (the list of applications and programs is presented below). You can download it from the official website or purchase a starter kit for 3D printers.
3. Launch the application and register if necessary. After this, it is recommended to undergo training in the basics of modeling. It won't take much time, and you will learn the basic skills of creating structures of any shape and size.
4. After completing the tutorials, return to the main menu and open the dashboard inside the application. Find and click on the button that says “create a new project”, the program will automatically come up with a name, and then launch the project to create a new layout.
5. Use the toolbar and a set of ready-made parts, move them to the work field. Using arrows and adjustment points, you can change the size and position of the figure in space.
6. After completing the project, go to the “design” line and select the “download for 3D printer” action. The application will create a file with the desired resolution and send it for printing. Check the condition of your equipment and then start printing.

If all steps are performed correctly, you should end up with a finished three-dimensional product on the equipment desktop.

ADVICE: To quickly change the volume of a figure, use the mouse wheel, and to easily change the angle of inclination, hold the right mouse button and move the cursor in the desired direction.

What applications/services should I use?

To implement the functioning of the system, use ready-made layouts and create your own ideas in modeling, it is recommended to use special services:

• Blender.
• Google SketchUp.
• Openscad

You can also use working sites in the browser to create a model online (for example, https://tinkercad.com/).

Try to use different services and choose the best one. Improve your skills to create your own designs and bring them to life.

Even conventional printers use special materials and inks to create a print. Since 3D parts are composed of different materials, special raw materials must be used to create them. The most popular are the following samples: PLA, ABS, PVAL. All of them are natural or artificial polymers with different characteristics and properties. You can find out more information about them on the Internet.