A 3D printer does not work on its own. In the same way that it is necessary to create documents to be printed in a conventional model, we must also do it in these models. Although, obviously, we will need specialized applications. That’s why we decided to make a quick guide on the 3D printer apps you must be able to work with these devices.
One of the common myths when using a 3D printer is that the print is the same as with a normal document. That is, we create the composition and send it directly to the printer by giving an option. However, with 3D printing this is not the case and there is an additional level of complexity. Indeed, you must create a document telling the 3D printer how to print the figure. In fact, the concept is the same as the PostScript format for conventional printing. That is, a series of instructions that tell you how to do your job.
What software do we need for our 3D printer?
When we send a document to be printed, the file that our conventional printer receives is not the same with which we save the file. Because while one describes the file, the other describes what to do to generate a paper version of the document. Well, the vast majority of 3D design programs are not based on the same principles to compose a figure as a 3D printer and that is why a series of additional applications are needed to transform said information so that the printer can do your job properly. So when it comes to designing for 3D printing, we have a series of key steps that are always the same. This means that we need a different type of application for the different stages of creation.
Applications to design for a 3D printer
The first of them creation of the 3D model via a specialized application for it. We must start from the fact that in the world of 3D design you can see that there are a large number of different applications. Thus, unlike other worlds, it did not tend towards a monopoly as happened with Photoshop in design or Office in office automation. This is due to the fact that there are applications which, although they are very good for designing video game characters, are disastrous for mechanical parts. An example of this type of application is Autodesk TinkerCAD.
Model Slicing Applications
The second step is what is called in English slicing or sliced. Let’s not forget that 3D printing is based on the accumulation of hot particles to create a substrate that accumulates until the final figure is reached. What requires the use of applications take the information from each model and create a cut version for the 3D printer. An example of such applications Cura Ultimaker.
This type of application allows us to control a series of key parameters such as pre-programming how the printer will work in the different parts. The amount of material, the speed of operation and many more. The most novice users will not need more than this section and will place all their trust in the 3D printer which will take care of printing what we have designed previously.
Applications to control the 3D printer
Finally, we have the final impression. Less knowledgeable users will let the system print on its own and not worry about what happens while the parts are printing. However, due to the nature of the different filaments or materials used in 3D printing, it is necessary control the 3D printer while it is working. We are talking about real-time control of fan, heated bed, etc. And more so when we have a large number of different filaments and materials. An example application for this task is Octoprint.
Monitoring is not mandatory for all print media, but in some cases it is necessary to control it. Since some materials require real-time control while they are printed. As you can see, it’s not as simple as send to print and forget, since much more comprehensive knowledge is required.
How to make the right choice ?
Therefore, using multiple different applications leads to a key workflow issue. From our point of view, it will be much easier for you if, given the enormous number of applications available, you sift through:
- What operating system do you usually use or plan to use for 3D printing?
- What is your knowledge? If you’re familiar with a 3D design program, we don’t recommend starting from scratch. Otherwise, value what you want to do and the time you have to learn.
- If you’re going to use multiple apps in the process, make sure they all support the same file formats, at least step by step.
- What is your capital? This is important, because if you’re looking to learn how to test, you shouldn’t pawn your kidneys.
With all this, you will be able to choose the application that best suits you among the different ones on the market.
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