I've had a few things 3-D printed through Shapeways, but I'm wondering which axis (x y z) is interpreted by their machines as vertical? I ask this in an effort to orient my parts in the best way to minimize the resolution lines. And I'm assuming that the parts are printed from the base upwards (vertically). Any tips would be most appreciated. I'm working in Rhino 4, if that is relevant or helpful. Thanks-
I think it may be file dependent. I've noticed most file types are Z up, but it appears that OBJ is Y up. But, that doesn't mean your item will be printed in that orientation.
It doesn't matter. They will reorient your mesh when printing so that they can print as many orders together as possible.
I believe Darthviper is correct. I've noticed multiple prints of the same file may appear to have been printed at different orientations.