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How best to model a part for 3D printing
Anthony_O_Connell
Member Posts: 7 ✭
I‘m trying to model a part based on sheet metal so I initially used the sheet metal tool to create the bent part but then found that I couldn’t chamfer the model edges. I reverted back to a sketch and extrude model but the interface between the parts at the bend point create problems when trying to chamfer. Any advice on how to do this better?
https://cad.onshape.com/documents/58333835ce80dd3c487b9765/w/05cfb0cede24075f9360b260/e/76cf30b89a0ca2e01fe05abd
0
Answers
If you use the "finish sheet metal" feature, then you part becomes "normal" after that and you can use any of the regular tools that do not work on sheet metal geometry.
That said, if you are 3D printing the part there isn't any reason to limit yourself to use a constant thickness and you would be better off adding thicker regions for strength reason.
Side note but have you considered using the version tree and/or branches to explore design alternatives instead of creating a copy of your part studio (which becomes "separate").
I agree, making parts from SM and on a printer are two very different modes. Especially if the part will be exposed to mechanical stresses, I'd make it as bulky as possible (assuming you're printing in plastic), preferably with the largest cross-section following the layer lines (so wider than tall, if possible). I design all my parts to lie flat on the print bed, with no steep overhangs to avoid supports.