Software developer MXD3D has launched an open beta of a new model fixing software service called MakePrintable. They promise that the MakePrintable service will be able to automatically correct and repair most common, and even a few uncommon, problems with making 3D models manifold and ready for 3D printing.
Objects on 3D model marketplaces may not always be printable. And there can be problems caused when resizing, re-orientating, adjusting, or altering 3D models. Printability can be significantly more difficult for people who design their own 3D printable models or try joining two models together. Flawed 3D models causing or contributing to print failures is still a worry for many 3D printing enthusiasts.
To quell these fears, users just need to upload their model to MakePrintable and enter the make of their 3D printer, the materials that they are using to print with, and the type of output needed. MakePrintable can provide a model as Gcode or as an STL or OBJ file. Once it is repaired and confirmed as printable, users are emailed a link where they can download their corrected model.
MakePrintable claim that they can make any model watertight and solid, deal with any flipped faces and make the model manifold. They also allow you to easily join two 3D models, with MakePrintable removing any excess or unnecessary geometry. Based on your printer settings and material selections, MakePrintable will also automatically set the correct and optimal wall thickness, hollow the model to reduce print time and material usage, and get accurate transparency, textures, and geometry.
The most exciting of the available model fixes is their Smart Filling option, which can be applied to your model and further reduce the amount of material used. The process involves optimizing infill and creating stronger and smarter internal support structures by generating Gcode that will drastically speed up printing time and material usage.
Currently the service is only being offered in beta that you need to register for; however, if it works as well as they say it does, I bet that it will be available to everyone soon – either as a standalone service, or as an extension that can be integrated into existing design or 3D printing software. You can sign up for the beta and find out more information on the MakePrintable webiste.
