How would you orient this object for printing?

[REV]

Hi All-

I've got a 3D print to do and I'm wondering how to orient it on the bed on a Rostock Max V2. The outside should smooth if theres a choice (i.e. avoid support on the outside).

Since the object exceeds the build volume in 2 dimensions it will definitely have to be cut for printing. Ideally all surfaces to be mated will have been those that were in contact with the build platform during printing for easy seamless welds. there are a few options as I see it:

Option 1: simply cut it in half along x or y axis. this would necessitate some support, and would not have glass smooth weld seams, as they would be on the z axis:

Option 2: cut opposing sides off such there is no overhang greater than 45 degrees and print vertically with no support:

The remaining pieces can be printed with no support, or with support but preserving z axis orientation and thus glass smooth weld seam.

I am leaning toward option 2, because I prefer to avoid support if possible. Also, I prefer to avoid curves that have a tangent perpendicular to the build platform to avoid the resulting 'stepped' surface. I would probably use a nice brim to stick 'er onto the plate.

thoughts?

-rev

[bot]

I would angle it back about 30 degrees, or however much you can while fitting it into the build volume. Then, add supports along the bottom and the edges to stabilize the object. Should print flawlessly. No need to split it up.

[Edit: just saw that you don't want supports on the rounded back, simply tilt it the other way. You'll have to use more support, a whole line that goes up to support the top corner edge, but other than that it should print flawlessly. If you want, I can set up an example to show you.]

[Captain Starfish]

There's supports and then there's supports.

If you cant it 30º from vertical I don't think you have any unprintable overhangs which require support, but the size of the thing and leverage generated will pop it off the base halfway through the print. You can fix that by building four thin (one or two layer) triangular supports into the model that run up the bottom of the part from the bed, maybe halfway along the base.

Once printed, they should be pretty easy and clean to remove by running a straight razor along the bottom of the part.

[KAS]

netfab cut it in half, print it like your 3rd image then use CA glue to join it back.

[REV]

@KAS if I just cut it in half I would need support going all the way up the print- it that what you are suggesting?

the 30 degree approach is quite intriguing- I would like to try that some day--- however I went with option 2: vertical, shearing of each small lip portion and re attaching later. After seeing how easy the support came off the front on my two small parts I'm more open to support now, esp s3d generated support. I tweaked the settings a bit to get it as close as possible to minimize print distortion.

Thanks for the input!

-Revel

[KAS]

I wouldn't think so, but you could just slice that top portion and do a test print to see how the overhang looks. Turn the part so you don't block any layer cooling.