3D Printing in a straight line without using vase mode
Happy holidays everyone 🙂 I'm looking to 3D print the following object. Aware that the solution may lie in PrusaSlicer settings, but there might also be some Fusion 360 advice involved.
The challenge is that I want to print this more or less like vase mode, without using actual vase mode. I want the printhead to follow a straight line and create a 1-perimeter wall. When I select vase mode the printhead follows the correct path, but when I deselect vase mode the path the print head follows is a bit messy and I suspect will result in less strength and constant unnecessary retractions.
Vase mode creates a smooth one-line path without retractions.
Without vase mode the print head first draws little lines, and then starts doing the blades.
I tried creating a small cut in the inside of the structure to see if that would guide the slicer software in the right direction, but unfortunately it does not make the slicer software calculate the path in a straight line either. Originally this step is not there and the model looks clean inside without cuts(picture 2). Does anyone have an idea of how I can achieve a straight printing line for the perimeters? I attached a .3MF file.
RE: 3D Printing in a straight line without using vase mode
@twan
What you want to do is possible. I don't have your model to experiment with, so I'm guessing as to what might help you.
Some suggestions:
Try playing with the "slice gap closing radius", or changing the slicing mode. (Both of these settings are found in Print Settings/Advanced/Slicing)
Try making the your model solid and then printing perimeters only. Obviously use a single perimeter.
Take a look at how model plane wings are printed, this should give you some insights as they print in a similar way to what your looking for.
Happy holidays
RE: 3D Printing in a straight line without using vase mode
Thank you @snufflepagus for taking the time to think about this and give some advice. I just tried this in PrusaSlicer and this really helps send the printhead in the right direction. Changing the slicing mode from 'Regular' to 'Close Holes' was all that needed to be done.
I actually also posted this at the Fusion 360 forum and some advice there was given that was also helpful regarding the build up of the model itself to also help with improving the slicing.
Good idea regarding the single-perimeter airplane wings. Will have a look at them in the new year. Happy holidays!
RE: 3D Printing in a straight line without using vase mode
You may also want to consider un-ticking "Ensure vertical shell thickness"
Happy New Year