FreeCAD is a parametric 3D modeler built for product design and engineering. Feature rich and with a high learning curve, FreeCAD is rather for advanced users. The software is multi-platform, and runs flawlessly on Windows and Linux/Unix and Mac OSX.
Learn how to get started with 123D Design by creating objects. This quick tutorial uses the desktop version of 123D Design, and also gives some navigation tips.
With comprehensive 3D CAD tools for design, engineering and preparation for manufacturing, Geomagic Design empowers rapid, accurate product development in an easy-to-use environment.
At a highly affordable price point, Geomagic Design delivers top-end tools at lower cost, including comprehensive assembly, parametric and direct editing tools, 2D documentation, sheet metal design, motion analysis and integrated CAD data sharing tools.
“The simplicity, power, and flexibility of Geomagic Design makes it the first tool I reach for in my role as a consulting mechanical design, development, and manufacturing engineer.” Lew Merrick, PE
Thordon Bearings Ing. Vaughn Power, Marine Systems Designer
"Geomagic Design has allowed me to reproduce a full 3D assembly model of our lubrication system. I had already completed a similar design using Mechanical Desktop but was surprised to find that I could complete an entire new design in about half the time using Alibre Design."
Aerospace
Triton Systems, DBA Wes Kelly
"Currently, with much interest in small, commercial space projects (e.g., X-prize vehicles or successors cheap access to space, "space tourism") small groups of engineers are scurrying to find inexpensive means to do Computer Aided Design. My conclusion: Alibre Design is the way to go."
Industrial Equipment Manufacturing
Cincinnati Automation. Ford Jacobs, Design Engineer
"With the ability to share our concepts and ideas with our customers using 3D images, our ability to understand and provide the customers exactly what they need has been very much improved. We are tapping into new market areas that we simply could not have competed in before we started using Geomagic Design. I am very satisfied."
Consumer Product Manufacturing
Jeff Mitchell
"I found the interface [of Geomagic Design] very intuitive and the learning curve short. I have since become enamored with the collaborative design features and hope that this product might help me leap some of the language hurdles present with our overseas manufacturers. This solid modeler fits my needs and it's a super value."
Our free software prepares your model for 3D printing. For novices it’ll do everything for you, and for experts there are many advanced settings. As it’s open source, we work with our community to enrich it even more.
Filament Installation is accessed by selecting the 3D Inkbutton in the top left corner of the M3D Software. You will be guided to install filament Externally or Internally.
DO NOT attempt to load both ports at the same time during printing.
Internal Filament
Figure. Showing the filament path taken when installing internal filament. The path
begins underneath the print bed through the black filament tube.
External Filament
Figure. An example of an ideal external filament path. External filament is installed
via the external feed port located at the top of the extruder head. Always keep a clear
path between your filament spool and the print head.
*NOTE Factory Filament *
There may be factory filament installed externally, let the printer extrude this first and then insert your filament of choice.
Notes for Loading Filament
In both scenarios, you need to feel the filament “catch” the extruder gear. When you are loading filament, apply constant force on the filament to push it forward into the extruder gear. A good way to test if the filament is “caught” is to lightly pull back
and forth on the filament. If the filament does not pull out, then you have engaged with the gear.
3D Ink™ Cheat Code
Your 3D Ink™ Cheat Code is written on the front of your Micro Spool. If it is not, you can type in either ABS or PLA depending on which filament type you are using.
1. Quick Calibrate Often a successful first print layer leads to a successful print! To be sure your printer is ready for its first print, select the Gear Icon to open the printer settings. Then go to the Calibration section where you can select Advanced Calibration. Now select the Recalibrate Bed Locationbutton. This will begin the Quick Calibration process, which should take no more than 5 minutes
*DO NOT TOUCH The Micro During
Calibration*
Keep the printer on a level/stable surface during any calibration sequence. There is the option in the M3D Software to manually adjust the calibration height of your Micro. Please visit www.PrintM3D.com/support for detailed videos and documents regarding calibrating The Micro.
2. Load the First Model
Loading a model into the printer is simple; just drag the model from the Recent
Modelslibrary to the printer. Your first model is already loaded in the M3D Software. We recommend printing this model first as a test calibration.
Select the Open Modelbutton in the top left corner of the M3D Software to browse for other 3D Models on your computer.
Other models can be downloaded from sites like Thingiverse.com and Yeggi.com. These files must be .STL or .OBJ file types.
3. Watch Your First MicroPrint!
Click the Green Buttonto open the print settings menu and begin your first print. For
your first model, we have already pre-loaded the best settings, so all you have to do is press print!
*Look Out!*
We encourage you to get into the habit of watching the first few layers of your print and paying attention to two things:
Nozzle Height
Only a piece of paper should fit between the print bed and nozzle tip. If not, Recalibrate!
Peeling/Warp
You should typically stop your print and adjust the User Offset Values in that corner
About the HATCHBOX 3D PTR-ALPHA Alpha 3D Printer : While many consumers may be familiar with the Cartesian 3D printers, which are name...
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