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Checklist for Successful File Submission

Files MUST...:

  • be exported to .STL format, one model per file
    • We will not print any STLs that contain more than one model
  • be less than 10"x10"x12", scaled in inches
  • pass the Shapeways tests for "plastic, white strong and flexible" (3D Tools)
    • We need a screen shot of the test results (contains checkmarks) for each file
    • We will not print any files without an associated screenshot
  • have no naked edges
    • We will not print any files containing naked edges
  • have a minimum feature thickness of 1/16". 
    • We will not print any files containing feature thickness under 1/16"
    • 1/16" is the minimum for simple and rectilinear geometries, but more complex geometries should be thicker to avoid printing issues
  • Notes

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  1. Export the .STL file in your 3D modeling software of choice
  2. Run your model through the naked edges test (instructions below) in Rhino and make sure there are no naked edges:
    1. Select your entire model and then go to the "Analyze" menu on the toolbar, then click on "EdgeTools", then "Show Edges" 
    2. Select "Naked Edges" and confirm that nothing gets highlighted. 
    3. If there are highlighted lines please fix these before coming to the desk, as we will not print any files containing naked edges
  3. If using 3DS Max utilize the "STL Check" Modifier to check for model watertightness. Watertightness is a property of a mesh that has no holes or naked edges, and thus would not theoretically admit any water or fluid.

  4. Create a free account at Shapeways and click the "Upload" button to test your .STL file

    1. After uploading, go to "My Models"

      1. Click on the "..." and then "Open in 3D Tools"

      2. Model must receive all green checks mark for "White Strong & Flexible Plastic"

        1. When you see an image of your model appear in the window at the top of the Shapeways page, it may still take a few minutes to display results for all quality checks

      3. The photo below shows an example of the quality check results on Shapeways–this model didn't pass all of the required tests

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