Accurate 3D Printing W/Sketchup

Question

I have 3D printers at my school, but unfortunately they are not super high quality. I want to try 3D printing a model I made on google sketchup, but I would like for it to be fairly accurate.

What measures can I take to prevent error in the model? I understand that I need to export the file as an STL; is there anything I can do to the model before hand to ensure accuracy?

What can I do to calibrate a 3D printer for best results?

I wish I had more details on the specs. I will know more tomorrow — OneChillDude, Feb 05 '13 at 19:01
You might want to check out 123D (http://www.123dapp.com/). It is a lightweight CAD package and set of tools for rapid prototyping (i.e. 3D printing) oriented for non-engineers. — Ben, Feb 15 '13 at 02:32
When exporting to .stl a resolution can be set, it is effectively the number of triangles/subdivisions. Dunno about Sketchup though. — Johan Larsson, Feb 28 '13 at 18:11
With 3D printing, there are many advantages this thing can do. 3D Printing To Heal Skull Fractures — sophiewilson0191, Mar 29 '18 at 04:00
This does not provide an answer to the question. Once you have sufficient reputation you will be able to comment on any post; instead, provide answers that don't require clarification from the asker. - From Review — Petch Puttichai, Mar 29 '18 at 08:51

score 1 · Accepted Answer · answered Feb 16 '13 at 17:05

What I've found 3d printing with SketchUp:

Use good geometry. Free Drawing should pretty much never be used. Make sure all of your arcs & angles are clean.
You can not have unclosed areas. Some programs are very good about this. Sketchup is not. Lines that go no where should be removed, and all lines should be connected to the model.
Pick a good ruby script for exporting as an STL. There are many free scripts available, and any of them should work if you do what is mentioned above.

Good Luck!

Accurate 3D Printing W/Sketchup

1 Answers1