2. 3D printing

3D modelling

In order to transmit the information to the printer, the item must be modelled at first. It is important to notice that the printer "reads" the information consistently, not in the way we see it. That is, if during modelling, we draw a line on a line, we see only one line, and the printer prints the first line first, then the second line on the same layer. This increases material costs and the actual model may be inaccurate. Therefore, in modelling, it is necessary to make sure that there are no duplicates in the layer, that the line layer thickness and other parameters are properly provided. 

The choice of a 3D modelling software depends on many factors. This includes user computer literacy, ability to manage a simulation program, your computer’s computational capabilities, project complexity, software license, etc. Licensed and open source programs can be distinguished according to the "availability" of the software. Licensed have far more options. Open source programs are available to every user, are versatile enough for the operating systems, but are more likely to have some “bug” in the software itself. 

The most commonly used modelling software is shown in the table below:

One of the largest companies involved in modelling software development is Autodesk. It includes AutoCad, Fusion 360, as well as TinkerCad software packages. Tinkercad is available as a free online collection of software tools set which is very handy for usage in schools o for other teaching purposes.  Autodesk provides services for both the business classroom and learning purposes. Educational institutions can get a license for products. It is not a complete software package that is paid and intended for the business class, but to study, model and prepare a model for 3D printing is fully sufficient. 

Each version of the software is constantly updated and supplemented with additional features. The main goals are to create intuitive software that is as easy to learn as possible for the user. Each of them requires a basic theoretical basis for modelling.