Chapter 1: 3D Printing Technology - Flashforge Finder User Manual

Chapter 1: 3D Printing Technology

3D printing refers to transforming three-dimensional models intophysical objects that
you can hold and touch. It is also called additivemanufacturing because the 3D model is
created by adding layers uponlayers of material until the object is fully formed.
Fused Filament Fabrication(FFF) is the most common method of 3D printing.It is also
the method that the Finder uses. It works by melting plasticmaterial called filament onto
a print surface in high temperature. Thefilament solidifies after it cools down, which
happens instantaneouslyafter it is extruded from the nozzle. 3D objects are formed with
thefilament laying down multiple layers.
1.1 Process
3D printing involves three steps:
1.) Make or download a 3D model
2.) Slice andexport the 3D model
3.) Build the 3D model
1.1.1 Make a 3D Model:
Currently, there are three ways tomaking a3D model.
Designing From Scratch You can use free CAD (computer-aideddesign) software
such as 3DTADA, AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Pro-E, and our own software Happy 3D to
design your own 3D model.
3D Scanners An alternative method to making a 3D model is to scanan object. 3D
scanners work by digitizing a physical object, collectingits geometric data, and saving it
to a file on your PC. There are alsoapps that can turn a mobile device into a 3D scanner.
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