How to start your fantastic 3D Printer journey? (part 2)

3D modeling process

Almost all 3D modeling software available on the market can produce 3D models for use with 3D printers, including established CAD software such as AutoCAD, Solidworks, or CGMAX, 3DMAX, Maya, and more. However, for non-professionals, these software are too expensive and inconvenient. At present, modeling mainly uses some free open-source software, such as OpenSCAD, Tinkercad, Meshmixer and so on. In particular to mention OpenSCAD here. OpenSCAD can be programmed through the preparation of code, as long as the relevant code input can generate graphics. At present, many websites take this code as an open source form. For Reprap, of course, 3D Printer Motherboard is a must.

As to open-source 3D Printer Module Board, we have to mention the DIY Arduino 3D Printer module board as we all know the general applicability and authoritative position of Arduino. There are many 3D Printer Expansion Board like the Arduino CNC Shield V3 which is a motor driver expansion board for 3D Printer.

3D Printer slice

Before the original graphics file into the 3D printer, must be through a control software processing, the graphics "slice." Most of this software is also open source, so there are many choices, common with Cura, makerwat, Repetier, slic3r, etc., users can choose the software that is suitable for their own 3D printing equipment. So a high-performance 3D Printer Controller is very important.

The process of printing

For now, print a small project takes about ten to dozens of minutes, you can wait for a cup of coffee patiently. 3D printed finished products, according to the different 3D printer accuracy, print out works of different roughness. In addition, after all, the hardening process of the material is not completely controllable. In the printing of more complex works, the overflow and deformation of the material are often inevitable. Therefore, you should modify according to the actual situation for the latter part of grinding and modification.

For beginners who are involved in 3D modeling, there are a large number of ready-made products available on the web that can be used as a starting point for learning. Thingiverse is one of the largest sites, in addition to the old open source site GitHub, you can also find a lot of work there.