Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
It is possible and very easy with just the slightest application of cleverness to make
designs that are printable without the need for any supports. So the blueprints in this
topic focus on making designs that print without supports. The limitations imposed
by this demands just a little more effort but allow for the teaching of principles that
are generally good to know.
Designing for dual extruders
Some models of Makerbot and other 3D printers have the ability to print in
multiple colors at once using two different extruder heads feeding plastic from two
different spools. There are some fun prints that come from this process. But as most
Makerbots and other brands of home 3D printers do not have dual extruders at this
time this topic will not explore this process in detail. The basic idea of the process is
creating two files that are aligned to print in the same space and combining them in
the slicer.
Designing supportless - overhangs and
bridges
When designing for supportless printing the rules are simple: Y prints, H prints
okay, T does not print well.
