(506) 2240-6804
Autodesk 3d printer software
What is 3D Printing? | 3D Printing Software
What is 3D printing?
3D printing, also called additive manufacturing, is a family of processes that produces objects by adding material in layers that correspond to successive cross-sections of a 3D model. Plastics and metal alloys are the most commonly used materials for 3D printing, but it can work on nearly anything—from concrete to living tissue.
Featured 3D printing software
What is 3D printing used for?
Efficiently make one-off parts and create highly complex geometries that are only possible with 3D printing.
-
Prototyping
3D printing has long been used to quickly create prototypes for visual aids, assembly mockups, and presentation models.
Learn more
-
Lightweight parts
Fuel efficiency and emissions reductions are driving the need for lightweight parts via 3D printing in aerospace and automotive applications.
Learn more
-
Functionally enhanced products
3D printing removes many of the constraints imposed by traditional manufacturing processes that prevent engineers from truly designing for optimal performance.
Learn more
-
Custom medical implants
To achieve osseointegration, manufacturers are using 3D printing to precisely control surface porosity to better mimic real bone structure.
Learn more
-
Toolings, jigs, and features
3D printed composite tooling and machining fixtures are often cheaper and faster to produce, and conformally cooled inserts for injection molds can dramatically reduce cycle times.
Learn more
-
Metal casting patterns
Combining 3D printing with metal casting bridges the gap between generatively designed parts and proven manufacturing approaches for large metal objects.
3D printing processes & materials
Understanding the different additive manufacturing processes
Explore different additive manufacturing processes and technologies to help you find the right one for your workflow.
Learn more
What materials can be 3D printed?
Using the right material for your 3D printed project can make or break a product. This article will cover what materials can be 3D printed.
Learn more
How is 3D printing software used?
-
Granta
Mexico City start-up disrupts medical-implant manufacturing
Mexico City start-up Granta is changing medical implant design and fabrication for patients who suffer head trauma.
Read story
Image courtesy of Granta
-
Airbus
Airbus bionic partition
Airbus uses generative design and 3D printing to create a strong yet light cabin partition for the A320—and takes the first step toward the plane of the future.
Read story
Image courtesy of Airbus
-
Stanley Black & Decker
A computer designed Stanley Black & Decker’s new tool
Using generative design and 3D printing, Stanley Black & Decker’s Infrastructure Innovation Center is exploring new approaches to creating high-performance industrial tools.
Read story
Image courtesy of Stanley Black & Decker
Future of 3D printing
-
What does the future of 3D printing look like?
3D printing has come a long way from the early days of desktop figurines. As technology continues to evolve, the future is brighter than ever.
Learn more -
How 3D printing is revolutionizing the medical industry
Amidst a global healthcare crisis, 3D printing has become a flexible solution to modern medical challenges.
Learn more -
The future of additive manufacturing in aerospace
Learn about how aerospace companies are buying into additive manufacturing and what it means for the industry’s ongoing success.
Learn more
3D printing tutorials
-
How to SLICE 3D Prints with Fusion 360
Fusion 360 can slice models for 3D printing, without the need to save the file as an STL. In this tutorial, we'll take a design model into the Manufacture workspace. From there, we'll slice it, simulate the 3D print, and save the Gcode.
Watch video
-
Fusion 360 Additive for your Ultimaker 3D printer
This video details the FFF workflow along with tips and tricks to utilize Fusion 360 Additive FFF for a Ultimaker 3d printer.
Watch video
-
Fusion 360 for 3D printing FDM technology workflow
Learn more about the design process using fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing technology through the power of a very flexible modeling workflow in Fusion 360 software.
Watch video
3D printing & sustainability
How sustainability and Fusion 360 can help you save money and the planet
Find out how you can use Fusion 360 software to drive efficiencies and innovation in your processes that will benefit your bottom line and the planet.
Learn more
Three environmental considerations for the FFF 3D printing process
Every manufacturing process, including FFF 3D printing, has an environmental impact. Learn how to reduce your parts' environmental footprint.
Learn more
Do your actions match your ambitions for success?
Get the right tools to achieve your new possible. Extensions amplify the functionality of Fusion 360 by unlocking advanced capabilities for machining, additive manufacturing, generative design, nesting, and fabrication. Discover Fusion 360 extensions.
Try Extensions
How long has 3D printing technology been around?
3D printing is much older than you might think! The first patents for an additive manufacturing process are dated all the way back to the 1970s. The first true additive manufacturing patent that led to a product is dated to 1984. The first real-world applications of additive manufacturing are in the dental industry, printing out masks of teeth as a replacement for plaster casting from molds.
What are the benefits of 3D printing?
3D printing is a rapid prototyping process, mass customizable manufacturing process, and a technology that enables the creation of complex geometries previously not possible through other manufacturing processes. It’s also a digital manufacturing technology that requires no tooling changes for revised parts, which means there’s no downtime between product revisions or manufacturing entirely new products.
How much does it cost to 3D print something?
3D printing a part is a combination of the material you wish to use, and the volume. Because 3D printing can output using a plethora of plastics and metals, the cost of a part can vary dramatically depending on what you are using, but it can be more affordable per part than other processes.
What 3D printing services does Autodesk offer?
Autodesk offers Netfabb as a dedicated additive manufacturing prep, analysis, and simulation tool, as well as Fusion 360, which has a dedicated additive manufacturing space, marrying design, engineering, simulation and manufacturing all together.
Fusion 360 is an excellent choice for creating CAD models for 3D printing. It allows you to create not only “prismatic” models such as gears or brackets, but it also allows you create more “organic” models using T-Splines, including characters, plants, and vehicles. You can use Fusion 360 to create and then edit your objects for 3D printing. Bring in models from other software and make modifications, such as de-featuring them by removing small features or blends. Fusion 360 can export as an OBJ or STL file format that is read by most 3D printing software. It also has the ability to print directly to your 3D printer. In addition, Fusion 360 even allows you to edit mesh or STL data that is brought in from a laser-scan or other source. Before printing, you can reduce or increase the surface count, edit out features, fill holes, etc.
CAD 3D printing software allows you to conceptualize, design, and optimize your models for fitting production technologies
Free resources for 3D printing
-
Additive manufacturing resource center
Access a variety of resources designed to help you identify how you can add value to your products with additive manufacturing.
-
Learn how to use Tinkercad to model, align and group parts, cut holes, add custom text, and specify dimensions. Tinkercad allows you to export and download designs for laser cutting and 3D printing to send designs to Autodesk® Fusion 360.
-
Learn how to take your ideas to reality through the use of design in Fusion 360 software, and how to utilize 3D printing to manufacture your idea.
-
Get product updates and enhancements, useful Fusion 360 tips and tutorials, roadmap updates and community stories.
-
Stay current with the latest in 3D printing trends and Netfabb software updates.
-
Learn how to print a PPE face shield in under four minutes and large-scale additive manufacturing.
3D Modeling Software | Free Trials & Tutorials
Subheadline
From beginners to professionals, Autodesk has 3D modeling software designed to meet your needs.
Image courtesy of Binyan Studio
Image Courtesy Serhat Sezgin
What is 3D modeling?
3D modeling is the process of using software to create a mathematical representation of a 3-dimensional object or shape. The created object is called a 3D model and these 3-dimensional models are used in a variety of industries.
The film, television, video games, architecture, construction, product development, science and medical industries all use 3D models to visualize, simulate and render graphic designs.
What is 3D modeling used for?
3D modeling is used across a wide range of industries
Our top 3D modeling software for games, film, TV, and VFX
Our top 3D modeling software for architecture and construction
Image courtesy of AJ Jefferies
How does 3D modeling work?
The artist starts by generating a 3D primitive such as a plane, cube, cylinder, or sphere, which are each made up of numerous polygons.
This object is then further developed by using various modeling tools to change and define its new, desired form. The workflow involves adding vertices, while adjusting their placement and manipulating the object’s mesh by subdividing its polygons with the goal of creating a new 3D object.
Watch 3D modeling in action
-
Creating realistic characters with Maya
In this video series, 5 artists demonstrate their respective technique in creating realistic 3D characters.
Image courtesy of Yin Shiuan
Watch video (03:29 min.)
-
Real-time product rendering with 3ds Max
In this first video we see how to setup the scene and 3ds Max's viewport for optimal visualization quality.
Image Courtesy of Jose Elizardo
Watch video (02:11 min.)
-
3D modeling with AutoCAD
Learn how to create 3D geometry using AutoCAD solid, surface, and mesh tools and how to apply texturing and materials to 3D objects.
Watch video (1:30:00 min.)
See all customer stories
Get started with 3D modeling for games
Getting into 3D modeling and game design has never been easier. Autodesk has everything you need to get started.
Image Credit Jonas Schlengman
Start here
Modeling software for 3D printing
Fusion 360 is a cloud-based 3D CAD/CAM/CAE software for 3D product design and modeling. Use Fusion 360 to bring your visions into 3D reality.
Try Fusion 360
Free 3D modeling software for beginners
-
Tinkercad
Tinkercad is a free, easy-to-use app for 3D design, electronics, and coding. It's used by teachers, kids, hobbyists, and designers to imagine, design, and make anything!
Start Tinkering
-
Fusion 360 in 60 minutes
Fusion 360 is a cloud-based CAD/CAM/CAE tool for collaborative product development.
Get started with 3D modeling, sketching, 2D drawings and assemblies with these quick tutorials. Learn how Autodesk Fusion 360 can help you bring your designs to life.Free Fusion 360 tutorial
-
Autodesk Design Academy
Help students get started in design with Autodesk® skill-building videos. No experience is necessary – each video covers everything your class needs to complete an exciting 3D design project. Just select the Autodesk design software you’re using and your class’s skill level, and you’re ready to go.
Start learning
Inspirational 3D modeling galleries
Find inspiration with these digital art and CG (computer graphics) galleries.
Free 3D modeling resources
Get started in 3D modeling with these tutorials, guides, tips and communities.
-
Autodesk's official CG community. Discover and learn through free tutorials and get the latest industry news.
-
Get 3D Modeling tips and tricks for your AutoCAD subscription. Learn wireframe, surface and solid modeling techniques.
-
Maya resources
Get ready-to-use 3D models, characters, landscapes and textures for Maya at Creative Market.
-
3ds Max resources
Get ready-to-use 3D assets, models, low-poly packs, and textures for 3ds Max from Creative Market.
-
See how the Autodesk AEC Collection makes project designing, planning, and building easier.
-
Polycount
Polycount is a community for professional and hobbyist game artists. Explore galleries, 3D news and forums.
Is Fusion 360 still free for 3D modeling hobbyists?
Autodesk offers its Fusion 360 software free to qualifying startups, hobbyists, and makers through a simple three-step verification process (US site).
Does Autodesk have any 3D modeling software for mobile devices?
Autodesk makes it easy to develop 3D modeling projects on your mobile device (US site). You can share, view, and comment on 2D and 3D DWG, DWF, Navisworks, and Revit software files. You can also review 3D models and animation in multiple formats and even create digital designs that are ready to be 3D printed.
How can Autodesk software help speed up 3D modeling workflows?
Built-in modeling and sculpting tools in 3ds Max allow you to quickly model 3D characters, environments, and elements. Its efficient and flexible modeling toolset allows you to automate your workflow, so you can focus on producing high-quality renders in less time.
What collaboration features are included in Autodesk 3D modeling software?
Autodesk software is designed to allow you to securely collaborate on 3D files in one location with easy design review in a web browser.
You can maintain an associative link to non-native CAD data and convert configurable 3D models into BIM objects.Where can I find learning content for 3D modeling?
Watch free tutorials on 3D modeling for Maya and 3ds Max on AREA, your hub for all things 3D. Find written and video tutorials for beginners to the most advanced users.
Why choose 3ds Max or Maya?
3ds Max and Maya are both used by creative studios around the world for animation, modeling, visual effects, and rendering. 3ds Max offers a robust toolset for modeling, intuitive texturing and shading, and high-quality rendering while Maya offers powerful tools for character creation, lifelike animation, and detailed simulations. Read more about the differences between 3ds Max and Maya.
3 Useful 3D Printing Apps for Fusion 360
Additive Assistant tool for Fusion 360
You've probably already explored the 3D printing capabilities of Fusion 360, and if not, you're missing out.
From FFF printing to metal powder additive manufacturing, Fusion 360 tools are evolving at a rapid pace, with even more new features coming towards the end of the year. Today, we're sharing three useful 3D printing apps available on the Autodesk App Store to help you take your additive manufacturing work to the next level.
Fusion 360 FFF Post Configurator
Download here
What it is: is an application that allows you to create and configure FFF post processors.
Who: for anyone who wants to customize their device settings for printing with preset custom messages.
How it works: you can easily load custom settings for printer platform temperature, heat-up timeout, fan speed and other options. Since the result of the configurator is a traditional JavaScript post-processor, advanced users will be able to modify it.
Addition: Check out the application's tutorial for more useful information about its features.
Autodesk Netfabb® for Autodesk® Fusion 360™
Download here
What it is: If you want to seamlessly transfer Fusion 360 models to Netfabb, this app will make the process as easy as possible. In addition, with it you will be able to send all print settings to Netfabb and Netfabb Simulation, including printer selection, support data and placement of parts on the platform.
To whom: Of course, this application is for those who already have a Netfabb subscription. However, if you are using Fusion 360 and want to take your AM work to the next level, Netfabb is the perfect companion tool, providing many advanced features and capabilities for AM. Imagine that you started setting up metal powder printing with the Fusion 360 Additive build extension and manually edited the supports in Netfabb. With this application, you can easily transfer all your data from one program to another.
Addition: If you want to learn more about Netfabb, visit the product page on our website and don't forget to watch the video below.
Additive Assistant Tool
Download here
What it is: We've been saving the best for last. Additive Assistant Tool allows you to analyze models without leaving Fusion 360: the application analyzes overhang angles, potential distortion and stability problems, can determine the size of the part, and also talk about the impact of its production on the environment.
How it works: Download the application, select the object you want to analyze, and the tool will automatically highlight problem areas that need your attention or need to be changed before being sent to print.
For whom: Any specialist will confirm that the human factor does not disappear with age and experience. The Additive Assistant Tool is a must for anyone new to additive manufacturing in order to understand what pitfalls to avoid, as well as advanced users.
Often there are situations when 3D printing is used to create a prototype, and in the future the real product will be produced in a completely different way. In these situations, the Additive Assistant Tool will help ensure that the part prints with as few problems as possible.
Addition: The Additive Assistant Tool is useful if you need to determine where to add supports and modify part geometry to avoid deformation. The application gives a clear visualization of problem areas, which allows you to quickly eliminate them. The tutorial will help you learn more about the features of the app.
Now that you have three powerful aces up your sleeve, it's time to get to work with Fusion 360 and put it to the test. We hope our tips will help you to significantly improve your projects. Join the official Fusion 360 VKontakte user community to stay up to date with the latest news about your favorite product.
Posted on 08 May 2021 2021-05-08 10:52:00
20 best and free 3D printing and 3D printer software
Looking for a 3D printing software? We've rounded up the top 20 software tools for beginners and professionals alike. Most slicers are free.
What is a slicer? This is a program for preparing a digital model for printing. Models for 3D printing are usually distributed in STL files. To turn an STL file into G-code (a language that a 3D printer understands), a slicer program is required. It is called a slicer because it cuts (to slice - English) a 3D model into many flat two-dimensional layers, from which a 3D printer will add a physical object.
Which slicer should I choose? In this article, we will tell you which slicer is the best choice for 3D printing for each stage of your work. Which one is better for preparing a 3D model for printing? But what if you need to create a 3D model from scratch? And if you are only taking the first steps in 3D?
Don't be afraid: we've answered all of these questions, including the required skill level for each program and where you can download it.
The great thing is that most of these programs are completely free and open source.
- Cura
- CraftWare
- 123D Catch
- 3D Slash
- TinkerCAD
- 3DTin
- Sculptris
- ViewSTL
- Netfabb Basic
- Repetier
- FreeCAD
- SketchUp
- 3D Tool
- Meshfix
- Simplify3D
- Slic3r
- Blender
- MeshLab
- Meshmixer
- OctoPrint
#1: Cura
For beginners who need a slicer to prepare STL files for 3D printing
Cura is the standard slicer software for all Ultimaker 3D printers, but can be used with most others , including RepRap, Makerbot, Printrbot, Lulzbot and Witbox. The program is completely open source, its capabilities can be extended using plugins.
This program is very easy to use and allows you to manage the most important 3D printing settings through a clear interface.
Start in Basic mode to quickly get up to speed and change print quality settings. If finer control is required, switch to Expert mode.
Cura can also be used to directly control the printer, but then the printer and computer must be connected to each other.
Download: Cura
Price: Free
Systems: PC, Mac, Linux
#2: CraftWare
For beginners to prepare STL files for 3D printing 3D printers by the Hungarian startup CraftUnique to support their CraftBot crowdfunding machine. However, the program works with other printers.
Like Cura, CraftWare allows you to switch from "Easy" to "Expert" mode, depending on how confident you feel. It's a colorful app that features a visual G-code visualization with each function represented by a different color. But the most outstanding feature is the individual support service. As far as we know, only the paid program Simplify3D has this.
Please note, however, that this program is still in beta, so bugs may occur.
Download: CraftWare
Price: Free
Systems: PC, Mac
#3: 123D Catch
-systems, smartphones and tablets, which allows you to convert images of objects into a 3D model. Pictures can be taken with a smartphone/tablet or digital camera.
You need many photos of the object from different angles - the more the better - after which they will be compiled into a 3D model.
123D Catch is more of a fun app than a professional 3D printing tool, but after some tambourine dancing, you can get good results, especially when paired with an STL editor like MeshLab or Meshmixer.
Price: Free
Systems: PC, Android, iOS, Windows Phone
#4: 3D Slash
and surprisingly simple, and refreshingly new. With 3D Slash, you can design 3D models using your dice skills.
You can start with a large block and, like a virtual sculptor, remove small cups from it with tools such as a hammer or drill, or start from empty space and build a model from cubes and other shapes.
You can paint with flowers or use template pictures.
Other features worth mentioning are tools for creating logos and 3D text. The Logo Wizard imports an image and creates a 3D model, while the Text Wizard allows you to enter and format text, and then turn it into 3D.
Recommended!
Download: 3dslash.net
Price: Free
Systems: PC, Mac, Linux, Browser
#5: TinkerCAD
- A computer-aided design (CAD) system for 3D printing, which is a good starting point for beginners. Since its capabilities are limited compared to Blender, FreeCAD and SketchUp, many users switch to more powerful tools after some time.
As in 3D Slash, here you can build models from basic shapes. At the same time, unlike 3D Slash, TinkerCAD allows you to create vector shapes in 2D and convert them into three-dimensional models.
Come in: Autodesk TinkerCAD
Price: Free
Systems: Browser
#6: 3DTin
For beginners who want to create 3D printable models
another easy and intuitive online tool choice for beginners in 3D modeling.
All you need is a Chrome or Firefox browser with WebGL enabled.
Choose from a huge library of 3D shapes and add them to your sketch. All sketches are stored in the cloud, access to them is free if you honor the Creative Commons license. Everything can be exported to STL or OBJ formats.
Enter: 3DTin
Price: Free
Systems: Browser
#7: Sculptris
For beginners who want to create 3D printable models
clay. This is a fantastic 3D modeling program if figurines are your main task. For example, you can make a bust of your favorite video game or comic book character. Sculptris is completely free and bills itself as a stepping stone to the more complex (and expensive) ZBrush tool.
Download: Pixologic Sculptris
Price: Free
Systems: PC, Mac
#8: ViewSTL
For beginners who want to view STL files
Using ViewSTL is the easiest way to view STL files . Simply open a web page and drag the STL onto the dotted box.
The STL online viewer allows you to display the model in one of three views: flat shading (for a quick view), smooth shading (for a high-quality image), and wireframe.
Enter: ViewSTL
Price: Free
Systems: Browser
#9: Netfabb Basic
some nice features that allow you to analyze, "repair" and edit STL files before moving on to the model cutting stage.
A good choice if you need more than just a slicer and want to be able to quickly fix STL files without having to learn programs like MeshLab or Meshmixer.
Don't let the 'Basic' in the name fool you, Netfabb Basic is actually a very powerful 3D printing tool. It's "basic" only in the sense that it doesn't cost €1,500 like Netfabb Professional!
Download: netfabb.de
Price: Free
Systems: PC, Mac, Linux
No. 10: Repetier
For advanced to prepare STL files for 3D printing
9002 the next level of 3D printer slicer software, but if you want to stay open source, you should look into Repetier.
It is the great grandfather of 3D printing software and a favorite of the RepRap community. Today the program is moving by leaps and bounds from the level for beginners to advanced users. Packaged in an all-in-one configuration, it supports up to 16 extruders, multi-slicing via plug-ins, and virtually every fusing 3D printer on the market. Get ready to tinker!
What's more, Repetier Host works remotely via Repetier Server, so that the 3D printer can be controlled via a browser, tablet or smartphone.
Download: Repetier
Price: Free
Systems: PC, Mac, Linux
#11: FreeCAD
The program is a great option for developing your design skills. More technically, this parametric 3D modeling program allows you to easily change the project by rolling back through the history of the model and editing the parameters.
Download: freecadweb.org
Price: Free
Systems: PC, Mac, Linux
#12: SketchUp
For beginners who want to create 3D printable models
SketchUp is the perfect combination of simplicity and the perfect combination functionality, with a user-friendly interface and a relatively flat learning curve (i.
e., as experience grows with the time spent), the ideal program for developing three-dimensional models.
The Make SketchUp version is free and will have everything you need for 3D modeling if you also download and install the free STL exporter. There is also a professional edition for architects, interior designers and engineers.
Download: sketchup.com
Price: Free (SketchUp Make), $695 (SketchUp Pro)
Systems: PC, Mac, Linux
#13: 3D-Tool Free Viewer
view and check STL files
3D-Tool Free Viewer is a sophisticated tool that, among other things, allows you to check the structural integrity and printability of your file. With the Cross-Section function, for example, you can look at the model from the inside and check the wall thickness. Very useful if you want to check your STL file for killer errors before printing.
Download: 3D-Tool
Price: Free
Systems: PC
#14: Meshfix
your model for errors.
Price: Free
Systems: Browser
#15: Simplify3D
For professionals to prepare STL files for 3D printing print. A flexible algorithm checks the model for problems, fixes them, shows a preview of the printing process (ideal for identifying potential problems), and then slices it.
This slicer offers the best infill pattern options in the competition. For models that require supports, Simplify3D will create the appropriate structures on its own and give you full control over their placement. For printers with a dual extruder, when printing with different materials, the Dual Extrusion wizard will help, as a result of which, for example, it will be easier to remove the dissolving filament.
Simplify3D supports 90% of today's commercially available desktop 3D printers and is compatible with Marlin, Sprinter, Repetier, XYZprinting, FlashForge, Sailfish and MakerBot firmware. Simplify3D can also be used to directly control the printer, but then the printer and computer must be connected to each other.
Download: simplify3d.com
Price: $149
Systems: PC, Mac, Linux
#16: Slic3r
source code, which has a reputation as a carrier of super new functionality, which you will not find anywhere else. The current version of the program is able to show the model from multiple angles, so that the user gets a better preview experience.
There's also an incredible 3D honeycomb infill, the first of its kind that can extend over multiple layers rather than repeating itself like a stamp. This significantly increases the strength of the internal filling of the model and the final printout.
Another option is direct integration with Octoprint. Once the files on the user's desktop are sliced, they can be directly uploaded to Octoprint with one click.
Download: Slic3r
Price: Free
Systems: PC, Mac, Linux
#17: Blender
For professionals who want to create 3D printable models
Blender is a popular computer-aided design (CAD) system with a steep learning curve.
Not at all the best choice for beginners, but what you need if you are quite experienced and need something more complex for modeling and printing.
In short, Blender is one of the most powerful tools in existence. Its community is always ready to help, there are a lot of educational materials. It's also open source, so enthusiasts often write extensions to make it even better and more powerful.
Download: blender.org
Price: Free
Systems: PC, Mac, Linux
#18: MeshLab
For professionals to prepare STL files for 3D printing
MeshLab - advanced editor. It allows you to remove parts of a 3D model, merge two models into one, patch holes. If you need a program to modify models for 3D printing or some kind of "repair" work, MeshLab is the right choice.
Price: Free
Systems: PC, Mac, Linux
#19: Meshmixer
For professionals to prepare STL files for 3D printing files. It's especially good for identifying potential problems and fixing them automatically.
