I am just starting to look into buying a 3D printer. While on this path it became apparent really quickly that the printer is useless unless you have the 3D model file to feed it. So, I figure I should find some software first.
I'm expecting to first be trying to make things like small domes with raised radial ridges, or the flip side of that - flat parts with conical depressions that need to have grooves in them. That's the kind of thing that is just hell on earth to scratch build and get precise results, but printers seem just made for.
I would love some input on good lower end software packages (with Mac versions). I don't need to go the totally free route, I am just trying to avoid spending over $1000 and then discovering I hate the particular software I purchased or that it is 10 times more complicated or powerful than what I need.
3-D modeling software for printing?
Moderators: Joseph C. Brown, Moderators
3-D modeling software for printing?
When in worry, fear or doubt, run in circles, scream and shout.
-
Lt. Z0mBe
- Posts: 7311
- Joined: Thu May 29, 2003 1:46 pm
- Location: Balltown Kentucky, by God!
- Contact:
Appaloza is touted to be compatible with any printer and promises in-browser editing of files. You might try going to them and registering for their alpha.
www.appaloza.com
Kenny
www.appaloza.com
Kenny
-
Tracy Mann
- Posts: 2396
- Joined: Sat Jul 13, 2002 1:28 pm
- Location: Jacksonville, Fl.
Try Sketchup Pro... It will produce many of the formats that 3D printers use (usually DAE or STL, occasionally OBJ formats). You can get the free version to familiarize yourself with the interface and there are tons of free models on the Google market.
When I die I'm leaving my body to science fiction!
Tracy, your best bet in my opinion is Rhino3D. It has the capacity to take work with a large point cloud to create a mesh: http://www.rhino3d.com/new/capture
If you're looking to keep your budget under $1000, I would recommend Sketchup Pro. Download the free version and as you get more comfortable you can purchase the Pro version.
The Sketchup model warehouse ( https://3dwarehouse.sketchup.com/ ) is a treasure trove of free models and the forums ( http://sketchucation.com/forums/ ) are a great resource for tips and advice.
If you're looking into 3d printer's I'd highly suggest Lulzbot Taz ( https://www.lulzbot.com/ ).
I have the Lulzbot 3 and absolutely love it. Combine it with Simpify3d,( http://www.simplify3d.com ) and you'll never regret your investment. The large build plate and great community forum makes it a great piece of hardware to own.
They now offer 2 types of dual-extruders, one that prints standard filament and the other that prints ninja-flex, a flexible, rubber-like filament.
I would highly recommend purchasing Simplify3d, one of it's best features is that it allows you to pick where to put supports. This is invaluable when printing objects with lots of curves and raised parts.
Good luck with whatever you choose.
Take care,
O2b4wln
The Sketchup model warehouse ( https://3dwarehouse.sketchup.com/ ) is a treasure trove of free models and the forums ( http://sketchucation.com/forums/ ) are a great resource for tips and advice.
If you're looking into 3d printer's I'd highly suggest Lulzbot Taz ( https://www.lulzbot.com/ ).
I have the Lulzbot 3 and absolutely love it. Combine it with Simpify3d,( http://www.simplify3d.com ) and you'll never regret your investment. The large build plate and great community forum makes it a great piece of hardware to own.
They now offer 2 types of dual-extruders, one that prints standard filament and the other that prints ninja-flex, a flexible, rubber-like filament.
I would highly recommend purchasing Simplify3d, one of it's best features is that it allows you to pick where to put supports. This is invaluable when printing objects with lots of curves and raised parts.
Good luck with whatever you choose.
Take care,
O2b4wln