Flashforge Finder User Manual page 76

7.1 Skills on Supports
Support structures enable the printing of models with steep overhangs and
cantilevered sections. The Finder 3D printer utilizes Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF)
technology, which works on the additive manufacturing principle of heating and
laying down material layer by layer to create an object. Many sophisticated 3D print
designs require materials to be deposited on a layer where there was not a previous
layer, or the designs have steep angles which might cause undesired drooping during
the print. In these cases, support structures are needed to ensure objects integrity and
print quality.
①Principle of 45 Degrees
Generally speaking, if the 3D model has an overhang of more than 45 degrees, you
will need supports. This angle is determined by the material, layer height, extrusion
width, and temperature. It is critical to adjust the support structures accordingly to
ensure the best print result, especially for large 3D prints.The principle is raised by a
stage designer and widely accepted among the 3D printing industry.
②Principle of Proportionality
As for the application of supports, the users are suggested to comply with the
principle of proportionality. Even though the supports algorithm has been developing,
adding supports intelligently cannot be realized at present. Therefore, users are always
oriented in adding the supports. As we all know, excessive supports will definitely
result in difficulty in supports removal, while limited supports cannot ensure the
stability of the model. Since FashPrint has the function of manual modification, users
can add proper supports to their models according to the daily experience and the
academic principles.
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