Seeking a good tutorial

[PetrOs]

Hey,

I use AutoCad12 to design my etched sets, and I would like to use it to create some parts which would be 3d printed at a 3d prototyping shop, and then resin cast. Is there any kind of a good tutorial how to make this - I would really love to avoid doing beginner errors.

[DrPR]

PetrOs,

Can't help with the tutorial. If you find a good one post it here, please.

The biggest problem is holes in complex solid surfaces. It is very easy to create solids with "leaks" from the inside to the outside. Gaps between meshes will cause failures when you try to print STL files.

I have created STLs with AccuTrans 3D ($20.00 Canadian) to convert DXF or VRML files to STL. AccuTrans 3D will clean up some holes, but not really complex problems.

http://www.micromouse.ca/

nettfab Studio Basic (free) will patch holes in STL files.

http://www.netfabb.com/download.php

Phil

[PetrOs]

Hey, thanks!

[Roscoe]

Here's another free open source program for you to check out called Meshlab. It has some nice features, with options to clean up your meshes, and make them "watertight" for 3D printing, just to name a couple.

http://meshlab.sourceforge.net/

And a YouTube Tutorial: http://youtu.be/37gFU-pfQ84

-Dean