Can I have my model lifted a few mm by supports? E.g. like a support pedestal?
Question about PrusaSlicer and generating supports.
I'm trying to print a coin-like model on its side. Instead of the model touching the build plate, can I have the model start 1 or 2 mm up and have the first layers be only support? Like in the image?
(source: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4915684)
Best Answer by Neophyl:
You can't place an Object above the platter. All Objects have to touch the build platter. There are a few ways to do it though.
Firstly you could use a raft. That places support under the object and lifts it up.
Then we come to the work around for placing things in the air. The rule is that some part of an OBJECT must touch the bed. However an Object can be made up of several Parts. As long as one part touches the bed the remaining Parts can be placed anywhere you like. The part touching the bed can be VERY small.
So you could right click the Object you want to float in the air and then select Add>Part and then select a box. You now have an Object with 2 Parts. Scale the box Part so its small (1mm or less in xy and 1 layer high in Z) and move it downwards relative to your original Object). Prusa Slicer will place the lowest part in this case the box on the bed but your disc will be in the air.
See the attached zipped project file for an example of this.
RE: Can I have my model lifted a few mm by supports? E.g. like a support pedestal?
You can't place an Object above the platter. All Objects have to touch the build platter. There are a few ways to do it though.
Firstly you could use a raft. That places support under the object and lifts it up.
Then we come to the work around for placing things in the air. The rule is that some part of an OBJECT must touch the bed. However an Object can be made up of several Parts. As long as one part touches the bed the remaining Parts can be placed anywhere you like. The part touching the bed can be VERY small.
So you could right click the Object you want to float in the air and then select Add>Part and then select a box. You now have an Object with 2 Parts. Scale the box Part so its small (1mm or less in xy and 1 layer high in Z) and move it downwards relative to your original Object). Prusa Slicer will place the lowest part in this case the box on the bed but your disc will be in the air.
See the attached zipped project file for an example of this.
RE: Can I have my model lifted a few mm by supports? E.g. like a support pedestal?
Yes, but not directly!
you can load the file into SL1 S profile, add tree supports then 'File> Export as STL or OBJ with supports' and re load the new file, into slicer as a Mk3 Profile, or Mk4 profile, as appropriate. And Slice again.
regards Joan
I try to make safe suggestions,You should understand the context and ensure you are happy that they are safe before attempting to apply my suggestions, what you do, is YOUR responsibility. Location Halifax UK