DESIGN 3D MODELS FOR 3D PRINTING & NEW PROTOTYPES
                     DESIGN 3D MODELS FOR 3D PRINTING
& NEW PROTOTYPES
3D design solutions: Create successful 3D models for your prototype.
Do you crave geometric freedom, a process to create better designs, and prototypes with 
better utilization? Do you wish to reduce waste material in your manufacturing process? Then 
3D printing is the way to go. 3D design solutions allow you to create inexpensive and yet 
complex designs quickly. You can create a unique 3D model and turn it into a physical 
prototype in a few hours. But not all 3D models translate successfully in 3D printable 
prototypes. During the modeling process, there are factors that must be considered to ensure 
the resulting prototype is sturdy, fit for its purpose (usable), and durable.
Stick to the 45-degree rule
There’s a reason most designers try their best to avoid supports for overhanging structures. 
Adding support means having to use that much more material to create the prototype. They 
could also result in uneven finishes.
If your 3D model is made up of overhanging features, but you want to reduce the number of 
supports, then follow the 45-degree rule. According to the 45-degree rule, any incline 
exceeding 45 degrees will require a supporting structure to take on its weight. Also, an angle 
close to or greater than 45 degrees can seriously test the strength of the filament material 
used to build the prototype.
Solution: Ensure all inclines are around 30 degrees and not more.
1. If you must use supports for your 3D design solutions,
integrate them into your model
Support material can leave unsightly marks on your 3D-printed prototype. It also takes time to 
remove support material. If you must use supports so that your 3D printable is successful, 
consider incorporating the support into the model. That way, you won’t have to remove the 
supports after printing.
When you incorporate supports into your prototype, you don’t have to compromise on the 
design or alter the geometry.
Solution:  There are several ways you can integrate support into your designs. It all boils down 
to how creative you can get. For example, if you are creating a prototype of a doll, you can 
consider making the doll lean against a pillar so the pillar supports it. Cones and helper discs 
are other support options that you can incorporate into a prototype.
Consider splitting the design into several parts that are oriented in different directions. That 
way, you won’t require too many support structures.
2. Pay attention to material guidelines
Every printing material is unique and has its own set of properties. While some materials are 
very strong and solid, others are brittle or flexible. While some materials are smooth, others 
have a rough texture. The list of differences in properties and characteristics goes on and on.
Before designing your 3D model, you must know what material you will be using to print the 
prototype. Every material comes with specific design recommendations that you must 
consider when designing corners, overhanging parts, strengthening parts, and so on.
Solution: Once you have chosen the material you will work with, ensure you stick to the 3D 
model design guidelines that suit that material. Read and thoroughly understand design 
guides before you begin working on the 3D model.
Consider comparing materials so you choose the best material for your design.
3. Pay attention to wall thickness
Inattention to wall thickness is one of the most common reasons for 3D models to fail. Here are 
some scenarios that are sure to fail:
Small parts with fragile walls break off easily.
Walls that are too thick create a lot of internal stress that could lead to the 
prototype cracking.
Solution: Choose the right minimum wall thickness, but as well as that, keep in mind that there 
is also a maximum wall thickness. Consider the material used and also the design (any weak 
sections) when determining wall thickness.
4. Consider warping – a natural phenomenon of 3D printing
Warping or curling is one of the most common occurrences in 3D printing. Materials with 
high-temperature filaments deform more quickly than others. One solution is to stick to 
low-temperature filaments for your prototype to avoid warping. But if you are determined to 
use a high-temperature filament for your prototype, you can make changes to your 3D 
model.
Solution: Design rounded corners. Rounded corners reduce thermal stress on the base layer 
as well as the entire print. You can also consider using mouse ears – small discs at the 
corner of the base layer of your 3D model to increase the surface contact and prevent 
warping at the corners.
h3ttDps d://ewswigwn.d seosilgunt-iopnoisn ta.croem fa/3ndtsaersvtiice fso/ r creating quick prototypes. But the success of a 
prototype will also depend on the success of the 3D model. The tips outlined here are 
designed to increase the success of 3D models as printed prototypes.
hDttepssig://nwPwoiwnt.d ise sai gtwn-op-odienct.acdome-/old company that deals with everything 3D – including 3D 
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Contact Us.
Phone: 1 (804) 913-3174
www.design-point.com