Need a program for 3d printing (prototyping)?

Question

Hi everyone, so I developped a project I'd want to create. I thought using 3D printing, for the different parts would be a great idea, so I began searching for a program that allows me to create 3D shapes, and that is adapted for 3D printing.

My first idea was blender, but as I went around the net, I saw people use it mostly for animations, or for creating artistic 3d images...

So, I was wondering, is blender still a good program if I want to use it for creating parts of a prototype, or is there any better program, maybe specially designed for that work ?

Answer 1

In the case of 3D printing, any 3D software is fine, Even something as basic as Wings 3D since all the 3D printer requires is the shapes to convert it to a 3D print.



Of course ideally you would want one that supports multiple formats [In this case Blender Does] as each type of 3D printer works with specific formats. In the case of MakerBot 3D printer it uses STL format.



For more information of 3D software \ formats read this

http://wiki.makerbot.com/how-to-print [For Makerbot] You should checkup the documentation of your 3D printer.



Edit:

Well there are rulers available and you can set size based on centimeters \ inches \ units etc.

Answer 2

Blender is what I use for all of my 3D printing models and modeling.



Blender measures in "Blender Units", which I believe are 1mm?

There is a tape measure tool in there somewhere.



The other option is if you use a good printing program, like Repetier Host, it will have an "Info" icon that will tell you how big your object is. You can also scale your object IN Repetier Host and keep checking the "info" on it to get your exact dimensions.



Just make sure you export your part as an .stl from Blender. And VERY IMPORTANT: All objects you want printed and included in your .stl file MUST BE SELECTED when you click "Export As .STL!!"

Answer 3

Yes You have the tools which allows you to measure length ans depth etc., Blender will suits you requirents perectly. Carryon with your project.

Answer 4

Incredible 3D Animation Software - http://3dAnimationCartoons.com/?DUih