Last Updated on December 27, 2022 by Markeyus Franks
To operate 3D printers, you need to have a set of 3D imaging and modeling tools that will allow you to envision your model. This software then commands the 3D printer to print the model based on the 3D design. It is not possible to enter the world of 3D printing without a thorough grip over the 3D modeling tools compatible with your make of 3D printer.
Choosing the right 3D printing software can be daunting, especially considering the many available options. There are all kinds of software that need varying skill levels, offer different features, and some are even free. But before you can get to 3D printing any products or prototypes, you need to know the basics of 3D printers and 3D imaging software.
What is a 3D Printer?
A 3D printer creates and constructs 3D models through the manipulation of filaments and layers in a precise manner. Designers have used 3D printers to manufacture product prototypes and models for several years, but recently 3D printers are being used in the production of finished goods too.
Creation of furniture, jewelry-making wax molds, tools, tripods, toys, and novelty and gift items are all products that can be made with 3D printers. 3D printing through a third party can cost from $3 to a couple of thousand dollars. The cost of 3D printing depends on several variables, including material, model complexity, and labor. If you already have the 3D model, it can help you get a more accurate estimate. It is sometimes more expensive to use a 3D printing service than to buy a basic 3D printer.
How Hard is it to Start 3D Printing?
3D printing is relatively easy once you have the appropriate knowledge and tools. As a result, most 3D printer manufacturers have made their products simple to use from beginning to end. This is because they recognize that ease of setup is critical for beginners in 3D printing.
Even if it appears a piece of cake at a distance, novices may face a series of hurdles before they can successfully print their first 3D design, especially if they try without understanding the theoretical intricacies. Some 3D printers from reputable brands come pre-assembled, making them easy to set up and use for beginners. But most high-end printers come with an assembly guide, and users must assemble the equipment before printing anything. 3D models can be printed through slicers such as Cura.
What Do I Need to Begin 3D Printing?
Depending on why and what you want to print, requirements for your situation will vary, but in general, there are two things to take into account before beginning:
- A proper software
- A filament and a 3D printer
What can 3D Printing be Used for?
- Large-scale 3D printers with concrete printing capabilities are used to pour foundations and build site walls today. Additionally, they can print pre-assembled concrete modules for on-site assembly. While reducing labor costs and cutting waste, these solutions enable more accuracy, greater complexity, quicker construction, and increased functional integration.
- Automotive businesses employ 3D printing for prototyping and producing specific components, notably those that specialize in racing cars like those used in F1. Companies in this industry are also looking into the prospect of employing 3D printing to meet aftermarket demand by manufacturing spare parts as needed rather than keeping them in stock.
- Prototypes are made using 3D printing in the healthcare industry to develop new medical and dental products. In dentistry, 3D printing is also helpful in producing tools for making dental aligners and patterns for casting metal dental crowns.
- 3D printing is utilized in the aerospace industry for product development and prototyping. 3D printing is also valuable in the development of airplanes since it enables researchers to meet demanding requirements without sacrificing strict industry standards.
What Software do 3D Printers Use?
Software is essential for everything in the 3D printing industry, from designing the output to its conversion into G-code to operate the printer. The top 3D printing software in the market today are listed below; each has its pros and cons so make sure to see which one fits your needs best;
1. Simplify3D
Simplify3D is an effective slicing tool for improving the quality of 3D prints. It layers CAD, fixes model flaws, and gives the user a preview of the finished product. Its premium features are helpful for commercial 3D printers that are used heavily. Simplify3D is one of the biggest names in the 3D printing scene today. Despite the authors’ claims that it is an “integrated software solution” for 3D printing, it is basically a slicer.
Simplify3D enables experts to perform mesh analysis, make pre-print simulations, and prepare print files, among other 3D imaging features. Administrators may configure, manage, and switch between machine configurations from a single platform. Staff members can create pre-print animated simulations using Simplify3D to find problems, follow sequences, and estimate print rates. Users can print many parts, modify printing orders, and enhance part-specific settings.
2. Fusion 360
Its widespread uses start from its affordable price, flexible options, and diverse applications. The software can be used for motion animation, electrical circuit design, generative design, failure mode simulation, and 3D modeling. Fusion 360 can be intimidating and overwhelming to a newbie because it has many features. You may be entitled to a free version of the program if your business is a startup less than three years old. Designers, engineers, and manufacturing experts frequently use Fusion 360 as a better 3D modeling solution for their work processes. A cloud-based platform called Fusion 360 integrates requirements from many disciplines.
Design goods using a wide range of modeling tools. Using various analysis techniques, ensure your items’ fit, form, and functionality. Fusion 360’s user-friendly CAD software enables you to explore numerous iterations easily.
3. Blender
Blender was used for animation and 3D game development before 3D printers were sold commercially. This free, open-source software program will benefit both novice and expert users. It has many features and may be used for motion tracking, animation, rendering, simulation, 3D modeling, and more. However, a significant learning curve exists before someone gets command over the Blender. A comprehensive 3D creation requires a solid modeling base, good texturing, rigging, animation, lighting, and many other tools.
This software is fantastic whether you want to work exclusively with static models or venture into animation. Despite being free, Blender is practical and accessible to various users, from novice hobbyists to experienced animators. Even NASA makes extensive use of it for its public models! Since experienced users are constantly improving it, beginners may face some hurdles in understanding it. It is an essential tool for individuals who want to create models personally for 3D printing.
4. Vectary
Vectary 3D is a highly collaborative tool that allows sharing your work online. Users can produce professional-grade 3D products for websites and social media. This software comes with many mockup templates that enable users to quickly create visually stunning presentations.
In Vectary, you can use pre-made 3D text templates and various fonts and create eye-catching 3D text for your game, artwork, poster, logo, etc. It allows you to build eye-catching 3D icons for software graphics and allows exporting of Facebook 3D posts as well. Vectary has a diverse selection of templates for 3D printing, and it will enable you to export designs in industrially accepted formats. Vectary is a modeling program ideally suited for Augmented Reality and 3D printing.
5. Auto Desk Maya
Maya is an expert in 3D software for producing lifelike characters and effects fit for a Hollywood blockbuster. They use exciting animation techniques to bring animations to life and simple modeling tools to create 3D objects and scenes. You can create realistic effects with Maya, such as cloth simulations and explosions.
The Academy Award-winning Maya toolset is a top option for developing vibrant characters and the environments in which they live. It can create fictional creatures, expansive landscapes, and exciting battle scenes. A program is a full-featured tool for modeling, animation, shading, and rendering 3D elements for still photos and energy. All these features make Maya one of the best tools in the industry. Creating and editing complicated animation is easy using the time editor, graph editor, and other devices. Prevalent in the video game and entertainment industries.
Top Udemy courses for 3D printing are:
1. Create Blender creator: Learn 3d modeling for beginners
The Udemy to learn about Blender offers you several essential insights into the software. The course obviously teaches you to use Blender, a free 3D production tool, to build 3D models and game assets. But you will also learn to design video game elements, manufacture one-of-a-kind gifts using 3D printing, and create digital versions of the house, automobile, and other objects other than just in Blender. The course starts simply so that even those without experience with 3D modeling will grasp the concepts quickly.
The course will show you how to make the most of your skills if you are an artist. It will teach you essential modeling and design principles, and you will also get a certificate of completion after each course.
2. Designing for 3d printers with fusion 360
Udemy demonstrates how to utilize Autodesk Fusion 360 to create ten practical and functional 3D printable products in the four hours of on-demand video. Each session builds on the previous one making design concepts and best practices easy to learn for everyone. For students and amateur users, Fusion 360 is a powerful design tool that is free to use.
By the end of the course, you will be equipped with the knowledge and self-assurance to start coming up with your designs and putting your thoughts into tangible things for just $84.99, along with a certificate of completion.
3. Auto Desk Inventor 2020 Complete beginners guide.
This course is open to everyone, whether you are a beginner or someone who wants to learn how to model 3D printing. This course is designed for new users of Inventor who wish to learn how to use the program correctly and obtain a solid understanding of the fundamentals of part and assembly modeling.
You will have complete knowledge after watching the 6.5-hour on-demand film. The pricing of this course is $84.99, and if you are not satisfied with the course, you can get your money back in 30 days.
