-
How to design fractals for 3DPrinting
Using fractals to design complex shapes Fractals Intro Fractals are geometric patterns that repeat at different scales. They exhibit the property of “self-similarity”. Fractals appear complex in shape. But they are just iterations of simple geometries in a pattern. Consider an equilateral triangle, inscribe another equilateral triangle within and continue doing this. You will end up…
Read more -
How to 3D print single and multi-colored backlit surfaces
3D print backlit surfaces 3D printing does not always have to be opaque. There are several applications where a transparent or translucent part is needed and a backlight is used to highlight that part. Common instances include power switches, face plates, and UI indicators. A power switch needs visual feedback to show the user if…
Read more -
A starter guide on designing for additive manufacturing
Additive manufacturing is for every one. Not just big companies. Are additive manufacturing methods meant only for high end product companies like large aerospace, automotive or medical devices companies and/or hobbyists? NOT ANY MORE. It is getting to be more mainstream in almost all industries regardless of complexity, sophistication, segment or size. Why is it…
Read more -
How to design parabolic, hyperbolic, elliptical reflectors for 3D printing
Designing parabolic reflectors for 3D printing In this article, we show you how you can design parabolic reflectors from first principles with any CAD software. Here at Stratnel, we offer design advisory and printing services and enable designers to use additive manufacturing to move quickly and get more done. Applications Reflectors are used in applications…
Read more -
How to save measurement time with custom 3D printed fixtures
Photo: nasrul ekram on Flickr Have you been asked to do a Cpk analysis and spent hours of time measuring each part in your sample set? There are less painful, and more reliable ways to do this sort of thing. We’ll show you how we improve reliability and save hours of measurement time with 3D…
Read more