MakerBot Educators Guidebook 3rd Edition

MAKERBOT EDUCATORS GUIDEBOOK Chapter 2: The X, Y, Zs of 3D Printing
PAGE 38
Overview of Applicable Modeling Programs
Difficulty
Cloud Based
No
No No No
Cost
Phone App Available
Free
Free for Non-
Commericial Work
No
Free
No
Available as
Web-Based Tool
Monthly
Subscription
Model
No
$99+
No
Chromebook Compatible
No
Yes
No
No
3. Polygon Modeling
Polygon modeling gives users direct control of the mesh, faces, vertices, or edges of a model. This allows for the
creation of highly detailed and intricate 3D models. These models can be both organic and rigid.
Ideal for
High resolution 3D models and for editing STL files,
also used in Animation and video game design classes
Strengths
Useful for creating highly detailed, intricate models;
direct control of the mesh, and a preferred tool for
animation.
Program to Start with:
Autodesk ® Meshmixer
(Previously known as Sculptris)
●
●
●
Difficulty
Free
Cloud Based
Cost
Phone App
Available
Chromebook
Compatible
Versatile Use
Can help repair problem STL files
Overview of Applicable Modeling Programs
No
Free
No
No
Free
No
No
Used by
Animation, Architecture, Visualization, Film, and Video
Game industries
Weakness
Steep learning curve. Intended for on-screen and
virtual environments - extra consideration must be
taken while modeling for 3D printing.
No No No No
Free
No
No
TIP:
Polygon Modeling is not optimized
for 3D printing, we recommend
trying polygon modeling once a solid
understanding of 3D modeling and 3D
printing has been established.
Monthly/
Annual
Subscriptions
No
No
Monthly/
Annual
Subscriptions
No
No
MAKERBOT EDUCATORS GUIDEBOOK Chapter 2: The X, Y, Zs of 3D Printing
PAGE 39