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Surface modeling is usually used for more aesthetic features of a product. It is much easier to create more organic and free-form geometry using this type of CAD software. Many of the constraints found in solid modeling are not an issue with surface modeling, however, this comes at a cost of sometimes being less accurate.

Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) 3D printing can create highly accurate, complex industrial parts more efficiently - and potentially more cost-effectively - than other industrial 3D printing processes. This article covers how to design parts for MJF, common applications of the technology and key best practices.

Sculpting, or organic modeling, is mainly used for creating freeform surfaces with intricate details such as characters, jewelry or organic shapes found in nature.

CAD (Computer Aided Design), also called 3D modeling, allows engineers and designers to build realistic computer models of parts and assemblies for complex simulations and digital manufacturing. Models created with CAD can be produced as physical components with 3D printing, CNC machining and injection molding.Â

CAD software can simulate a wide range of parameters, including strength or temperature resistance before any physical models have been created. Using CAD software enables you to work faster and more cost-efficiently, without compromising on the quality of your components.

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Rapid prototyping uses 3D computer-aided design (CAD) and manufacturing processes to quickly develop 3D parts or assemblies for research and development and/or product testing.

As the name suggests surface modeling only deals with the surfaces of the part, with no solid interior. However, once the part has enough surfaces to close the part, it can be filled and then used for 3D printing. When developing designs using surface modeling, it can be hard to go back and make changes because usually, it’s not parametric.

Learn what to consider when making a choice between 3D printing and injection molding, the benefits of each manufacturing method, and more.

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Assembly modeling is an important stage in solid modeling, allowing individual parts to be assembled together, forming complex models. Assemblies can be used to insert standard components such as fasteners or bearings, that have been downloaded directly from the manufacturers. Motion elements can also be applied to assemblies, allowing detailed motion analysis to be used to evaluate the mechanical performance of the design.

A comprehensive guide on designing parts for Binder Jetting, covering the printing process, design specifications and material options.

What is CAD modeling and why is it an essential tool for digital manufacturing? Explore the types of CAD software available for bringing ideas into the physical world via digital 3D modeling. Find the right software tools for your application.

Aside from these two, another viable software is nTopology. Targeted more toward academic and professional users, it lets you create design processes instead of building up objects from scratch, which makes optimizing your parts that much more efficient.

While Protolabs Network can provide DFM analysis on your CAD files and technical drawings, we can't create digital models for you based on drawings of your part or physical components.

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The survey found that the majority of engineers and designers use Solidworks for CAD design. Engineers tended to prefer AutoCAD, Inventor and Fusion 360 (the only free professional CAD software package on the list), while Rhino proved to be the second most popular modeling tool for designers. Interestingly enough, Rhino did not appear on the list for engineers even though it ranked highly for designers.

Each type of modeling software has benefits and drawbacks, depending on the type of design being produced this needs to be considered. Sometimes using both solid and surface modeling is needed to combine the benefits of each.

Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) is a 3D printing process for building prototyping and end-use parts fast. This article explains how MJF works and its main advantages.

Learn about the advantages and disadvantages of various methods of industrial 3D printing, materials that are commonly used, and more

Seeking consistency and predictability in your parts? Check out our guide on repeatability, which highlights the materials that will perform the same way time and time again.

Using these tools, artists can create sculptures that consist of tens of millions of polygons that capture even the most intricate details.

Sculpting software packages such as Pixologic’s ZBrush or Autodesk’s Mudbox were designed with classical sculpting in mind. They allow digital sculptors to start from a simulated ball of clay and use a pressure-sensitive drawing tablet or monitor to manipulate their object with brushes that reflect classic sculpting tools for moving, adding or removing material from their object.

While there are a ton of CAD programs available today, the most common is still AutoCAD. It’s one of the oldest and most popular software for 3D design and drafting.

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How can you create a part or product that’s ready to move from prototype to production? Check out our article, which offers tips and tricks for designing with scalability in mind.

Solid modeling creates solid 3D models as if they are actual parts, with a logical workflow that’s similar to the processes which would be used to manufacture the part. Some of these operations include extruding, drilling and threading. Solid models can intersect, join and subtract objects from one another to create the desired part.

Learn how to avoid low quality 3D prints or unnecessarily large files by exporting your STL file in the correct resolution.

If you don’t have access to more pricey enterprise software for CAD modeling, you can use free options like Fusion 360 and SketchUp Free.

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Another advantage of solid modeling is that it’s usually parametric, meaning that changes or parameters are saved at every stage of the modeling process and can be edited at any time. This allows features of the model to be quickly modified without needing to create the part from scratch.

Design for manufacturing (DFM) means taking a design-first approach to manufacturing. In this article, we look at the overall DFM process, the necessary steps for a successful outcome, examples of DFM done right and how to get the most out of your own processes.

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The most powerful software for 3D printing you’re likely to find is Autodesk Fusion 360, which makes it a preferred choice for designers, engineers and architects. It’s ideal for designing and producing very efficient mechanical components, to name one of its many benefits. You also have AutoCAD, the industry mainstay used by engineers and designers across nearly every industry.

What is Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) and how is it used? This article explores the basics of how and when to use GD&T to get the best results out of custom part manufacturing.

In developing this article, we sent a survey to over 750 designers and engineers who’ve used Protolabs Network to see which CAD software they prefer. Let’s explore the results.Â

What are the different materials available for SLA 3D printing? This article compares the main printing resins, including standard, tough, durable, heat resistant, rubber-like, dental and castable, by material properties. Find the best material option for your application.

There are many CAD programs to choose from, each with its own advantages and industry niches. Let’s break down the most common CAD software options by their principal benefits and common file types.Â