Modifier Mesh as support structure?
I've been working on models generated via software that have a large internal volume with a top surface that requires good supports to print at all well. Recently, I've added code to generate a separate model with support posts to pinpoint the areas needing support. PrusaSlicer (and Cura) do an OK job of generating support material but the result is often quite wasteful in print time in plastic, is often difficult to remove, and can screw up a tricky curve or two. Paint on supports aren't really helpful as the areas needing support are numerous and the slicer ends up with very nearly the auto-generated volume of support material. Plus, paint on supports are error prone and most of the models I generate are unique enough that I can't just do a couple and be done with it.
But if I simply pull in the support model into PrusaSlicer, it merges it with the main model. It looks like modifier meshes could work, but what I hope for is that the slicer can be told to add an interface between the support model and main model. Can I just tell PrusaSlicer "this model is support material"?
Is something like this doable?
It's not obvious that what you say you are trying is appropriate to the issue you describe, please show us an example. Ideally save your project as a .3mf ( File > Save project ), zip it and post it so we can see your settings.
Cheerio.
RE: Modifier Mesh as support structure?
What Deim said, you have provided no example in any way as to what you are talking about. A .3mf file exported from slicer and zipped up would show us what we need to know, it sounds like your having an issue understanding spacing of designed in supports in slicer.
More information as requested please.
Regards
Swiss_Cheese
The Filament Whisperer
RE: Modifier Mesh as support structure?
Ok, here's a 3mf project file. The support part is loaded as a modifier. It's not a finalized model or structure, I first want to figure out an answer to my question.
RE: Modifier Mesh as support structure?
@nethermead
After looking at the file my advice would be to use a different technology to make this part, something like an SLA printer is going to do a much better job on this part.
If that's not an option for you I'm going to refer you to this post where it seems as though the OP is doing exactly what your doing and having similar problems, the thread discusses most of the support options for this type of part relative to FDM printing using PrusaSlicer.
It's a complicated part and I would expect it to be printable with FDM, but not cleanly or without post processing
https://forum.prusa3d.com/forum/prusaslicer/support-blockers-dont-block-supports/
Good Luck
Swiss_Cheese
The Filament Whisperer
RE: Modifier Mesh as support structure?
Yes, I have an Elegoo Saturn printer and the keyboard models do print better with that, but I can usually print them quite well on my FDM machines with generated supports and a fair bit of post processing. My hope here is to limit the amount of material and time needed and maybe even improve quality. I know that, even if I succeed, it may not make a huge difference, but I wanted to experiment.
So, for modifier meshes, the answer appears to be that they can't really fit the role I hoped that they might.
Thank you for the link. I've previously tried reinforcers and blockers with little improvement, but I'm currently testing a print using the modifier model as a support reinforcer. If that comes off at all well, that may the best option going forward.
Cura's tree supports are phenomenally good with post production needing only a tug or two with pliers and most of the print comes out quite well. But some corners aren't supported enough such that the top comes out warped or lumpy in spots. I'm playing with support's XY vs Z distance override settings to see if that helps.
I have been juggling orientations to try and find a less problematic print, to no avail.
If these are your designs you may be able to rework them so that most overhangs are at 45 degrees or less. Otherwise the best results would come from a multimaterial printer with a soluble support interface.
If it's possible to flatten some of the exterior curves, cutting the part in half (adding joining keyways) and printing on it's side would greatly reduce support requirement.
Cheerio,
RE: Modifier Mesh as support structure?
You can do tree supports in Meshmixer (which is free). See
Mk3S+,SL1S