Minor gaps and inconsistencies can usually be fixed by specialized STL-handling software.
However, if your budget permits you may wish to consider commercial options (read: expensive) such as Rhino 3-D and SolidWorks. The content/theme of your class or programįree and/or open source options that are available:.Your choice of software tool(s) for use with your students will depend on a variety of factors: There is no shortage of free or commercially available software at your disposal.
#AUTODESK 123D DESIGN RAFT SUPPORTS HOW TO#
The GCode tells the 3D printer how to print the object. The software that slices a model is called Makerware, which translates the 3D information into an x3g file or GCode, the common name for the widely used computer numerical control (CNC) programming language). Once you have a STL file, the 3D model needs to be sliced into layers in order to be printed. Using a digital design, it prints objects by melting layers of plastic, one on top of the other, to form three-dimensional objects. The Desktop 3D printers are inexpensive machines that can be either put together or purchased preassembled and allow anyone to participate in personal fabrication and rapid prototyping.