Looks like it could be a scaling problem to me and the model is coming out in mm rather than cm.
If I do a x10 upscaling on it on all axes I end up with a model that is 22.6 x 19.7 x 15.6 mm dimensions (see attached screenshot). I take it that’s more like what you were expecting?
Yes, I do print, but whether or not I will be able to do this successfully, I’m not sure. What material/colours do you need these in?
I’m just having a quick play with the file you sent me on my machine in white ABS, but it’s so small and delicate, at least in these dimensions that I’m not sure it is printable, at least using FFF methods. You might need something more specialised, or someone with better kit than me.
Can I ask what the application is? Is there room to manoeuvre on sizing etc? I’m just playing with a larger version now to see what happens.
I’ve attached a Jpeg to give you an idea of what I’m trying to achieve (the full model) - I’m making a much smaller prototype/exhibiton model. The seating part is around 45cm at its longest length across so the modules need to be ‘around’ the right size so there is bit of leeway.
I can see where you’re going with this now. Thanks for the info.
I’ve been playing with various options and orientations of your file, but I can’t achieve what you need with my filament printer I’m afraid. Even with the different support material options, I’m really struggling to get a model with sufficient integrity to print. I’d be happy to show you the nature of the issues if you’re around this way (Ross-on-Wye) but it’s largely due to the oblique angles involved and the fine structure that means the support material is denser than the finished article.
I think realistically you need either someone with a lot more skill at the modelling and structural support skills than me, or you’d need to look at a different print process than what I can offer (FFF/FDM) where each of the ‘beams’ of the structure are not directly extruded but are made up of slices of sections, especially as there are such ‘overhangs’ involved…
It could be that using a different print method such as resin printing or ones such as SLS where the support material is lower density and less integral to the print would work better for you. I suspect most local hubs will be using FFF/FDM printers however…
An odd thought - have you seen what can be achieved with the 3doodler pen? This might be a low-cost way of getting what you need, as you could effectively use a ‘point-to-point’ extrusion method to create your model. Of course, getting the precise angles and repeatability of the units could be tricky, but maybe worth an experiment. Unfortunately I don’t have one of these pens, much as I would like one!
You could try widening your enquiry to outside of the /Gloucester talk for other input from the wider community of course!
I haven’t managed to have it done yet but did you read Mikes comment below?
He had a go and theres quite a lot of problems with it in terms of needing a lot of support etc & also timescale… if this is okay for you then we can talk!!!