Adding supports is a critical step in preparing many 3D models for printing, especially those with overhangs or bridges that would otherwise print in mid-air. While slicing software often offers automatic support generation, knowing how to add or modify supports manually provides greater control and can lead to better print results, material savings, and easier post-processing.
This guide outlines a common method for manually adding and managing supports within 3D printing preparation software, based on the provided steps. This manual process allows you to precisely target areas that need support and remove unnecessary ones.
Manual Support Addition Process
Utilizing manual support tools within your 3D slicing software gives you the power to dictate exactly where support structures appear. Here are the typical steps involved:
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Access Support Settings
- To begin the process of adding or modifying supports, you first need to access the dedicated support tools within the software.
- Action: If necessary, on the Prep bar, click Supports. This navigates you to the section where support settings and manual tools are available.
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Position Your Model
- For manual work, having a clear view of the model's geometry, especially the areas with overhangs or intricate details, is essential.
- Action: Optional: Position the model to view the area where you want to add or delete supports. Rotate, pan, and zoom to get the best perspective on critical sections.
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Select the Manual Tool
- Most software provides an icon or button specifically for manual support editing, distinct from automatic generation.
- Action: On the vertical toolbar, click the Manual Supports icon. This activates the tool you will use to interactively place or remove supports directly on your model.
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Add Supports
- With the manual tool active, you can now specify where new support structures should be placed.
- Action: Add supports. This typically involves clicking directly on the model's surface where you want a support column or structure to originate or attach, or potentially drawing regions. The software will generate the support based on its internal parameters for the selected support type.
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Delete Supports
- Just as important as adding supports is the ability to remove them. You might need to delete automatically generated supports that are difficult to remove, block important features, or are simply unnecessary based on your judgment. You can also remove supports you manually added incorrectly.
- Action: Delete supports. This usually involves clicking on existing support structures or selecting areas to remove them.
Why Use Manual Supports?
While automatic supports are convenient, manual control is often preferred for:
- Optimizing Material Usage: Only place supports exactly where needed, reducing print time and filament.
- Improving Surface Finish: Avoid placing supports on critical visible surfaces where they might leave blemishes.
- Ensuring Support for Critical Features: Manually guarantee support for small, delicate, or tricky overhangs that automatic algorithms might miss or under-support.
- Facilitating Removal: Place supports in locations that make them easier to detach after printing.
By following these steps and strategically using manual controls, you can gain finer control over your 3D printing process, leading to more successful prints and cleaner finishes.
