Reducing model size for 3D printing

[Dr. Mike]

A user recently asked how it will be possible to 3D print a model generated on the democratiz3D cloud service if the output model is too big to order printed. Embodi3D has a 3D printing service, but typically we cannot print models that are greater than about 40 cm in maximum dimension. There are a few options.

 

1. Print the model at half-size. You can order your model printed at half-size, and we will scale down your part so that it will fit within the maximum print volume of our printers.

 

2. Crop the input scan prior to processing with democratiz3D. In this option you reduce the volume of the input scan, so the output model file will be cropped. By cropping around only the desired anatomy you can exclude unwanted structures and reduce the volume of your model so that it can be printed. Here is a tutorial on how to do this.

 

3. Crop the model after it is been processed with democratiz3D. If you have a completed model but it is still too big to print, you can download the model and scale, cut, or otherwise edit it utilizing mesh editing software such as Meshmixer or Blender. If you have your own printer you can then print the file directly. If you want to use the embodi3D 3D print service, you will have to re-upload the modified file. Click the Analyze Model link (see picture) and your newly uploaded model will be analyzed for print ability. Once this process is complete you will be able to get a 3D printing price quote and order your 3D printed model.