MakerBot Educators Guidebook 3rd Edition
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MAKERBOT EDUCATORS GUIDEBOOK Chapter 2: The X, Y, Zs of 3D Printing<br />
PAGE 34<br />
Rafts<br />
Typically the first component that is printed, a<br />
raft helps models adhere to the build surface<br />
of a printer and provides a level surface for the<br />
first layer of the 3D model.<br />
Supports<br />
Removable scaffolding-like structures that<br />
print with your 3D model for any areas that<br />
have severe overhangs. Supports help you print<br />
components of a 3D model that may be in ‘midair’,<br />
similar to the wings of the letter “T”.<br />
Overhangs<br />
Layers that have little contact with the previous<br />
layers. Overhangs that typically exceed 68<br />
degrees from the Z-axis will require supports.<br />
Bridges<br />
The underside of a print that is supported at both<br />
ends but not in the middle. Usually a ‘bridge’ that<br />
is longer than 50mm will require supports to<br />
avoid filament “drooping” from the print.<br />
TIP:<br />
Designing with overhangs and bridges<br />
in mind can enable students to print<br />
without the use of supports.<br />
SECTION 2.4<br />
3D Design<br />
3D design, or 3D modeling as it will be referenced here, is the process of creating a digital representation of objects.<br />
Numerous 3D modeling software programs allow for the creation of 3D models in a variety of ways. Just as pens,<br />
pencils, brushes, and clay are tools that you use in the creative process, 3D modeling programs are tools you can use<br />
in your digital design process. It’s not about learning one right tool, but rather about finding the tool(s) that fits your<br />
design the best.<br />
TYPES OF MODELING PROGRAMS<br />
There are a lot of 3D design programs available, all with different strengths and weaknesses. When looking at 3D<br />
modeling programs, you’ll find that all of them fall into three major categories:<br />
● Solid Modeling<br />
● Digital Sculpting<br />
● Polygon Modeling<br />
1. Solid Modeling<br />
The easiest and most widely available type of modeling program to start out with. Solid modeling works well for<br />
creating models with real-world dimensions and is typically used to make functional parts.<br />
MAKERBOT EDUCATORS GUIDEBOOK Chapter 2: The X, Y, Zs of 3D Printing<br />
PAGE 35
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