"Ball in A Cage" s

Discussion in 'General Discussion' started by 410358_deleted, Jul 14, 2015.

  1. Hello there,

    may I ask how exactly this can be done?

    Is there some sort of format that allow you to split models into multiple pieces and give them printing priority.

    Ex.

    1 ______
    2 | o |
    3 ______

    Is there something that'd allow me to print this box; starting from 3, pausing after drawing the edges at 2, printing the ball, then resuming and printing the ceiling (1) ?
     
  2. Youknowwho4eva
    Youknowwho4eva Well-Known Member
    That depends on the material. For Nylon, Steel and Sandstone, We'd print the base, and use unfused powder to support the ball. For FUD and Detail it's a different material than the model used for support so it can be cleaned out with chemicals.
     
  3. mkroeker
    mkroeker Well-Known Member
    The data file you upload describes the entire object (your box with the free-floating ball in it) in three dimensions, the printer software then calculates thin slices through it along the "up" axis where the printer has to solidify the material. As Youknowwho4eva mentions, some techniques uses layers of powdery material where the un-fused material around the model acts as support automatically, in others a separate material is automatically applied under overhanging parts. Watch some of the production videos in shapeways youtube channel for details.