Unlocking the Secrets: How to Export Onshape for 3D Printing

In the world of design and manufacturing, Onshape has emerged as a leading cloud-based CAD software that facilitates seamless collaboration and efficient workflow. When it comes to 3D printing, exporting your design files correctly is crucial for successful prototyping and digital fabrication. In this guide, we will explore how to effectively export your designs from Onshape, focusing on the STL format, which is widely used for 3D printing.

Table of Contents

Why Use Onshape for 3D Printing?

Onshape offers several advantages for designers and engineers looking to create prototypes and manufacturing-ready parts:

Cloud-Based Accessibility: Work from anywhere with an internet connection.
Real-Time Collaboration: Multiple users can work on the same design simultaneously.
Version Control: Automatically track changes and revert to previous versions easily.
Integrated Tools: Access tools for simulation, rendering, and more within the same platform.

These features make Onshape an excellent choice for those involved in 3D printing and digital fabrication. Now, let’s dive into the steps required to export your designs for printing.

Step-by-Step Process to Export Onshape for 3D Printing

To ensure your design files are ready for 3D printing, you need to export them properly from Onshape. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Prepare Your Model

Before exporting, make sure your model is optimized for 3D printing. Here are some tips:

Check for non-manifold edges, which can cause issues during printing.
Ensure your model is watertight (no holes or gaps).
Consider the scale and size of your model.

Step 2: Open the Export Dialog

Once your model is ready, follow these steps to access the export dialog:

Navigate to the Documents tab in Onshape.
Select the part or assembly you wish to export.
Click on the More button (three dots) in the top right corner.
Select Export from the dropdown menu.

Step 3: Choose the Right Format

In the export dialog, you will need to select the appropriate file format:

Choose STL as your file format. This is the most common format for 3D printing.
Adjust the resolution settings if necessary. Higher resolution yields better quality but can increase file size.

Step 4: Configure Export Settings

Before finalizing the export, configure the following settings:

Output Units: Select the appropriate units (metric or imperial).
Export Options: Choose whether to export the selected parts or all parts in the assembly.

Step 5: Export the File

Once you have selected the export settings, click the Export button. Your STL file will be generated and downloaded to your computer.

Troubleshooting Common Export Issues

Even with a smooth process, you may encounter some common issues when exporting from Onshape for 3D printing. Here are some troubleshooting tips:

Problem 1: Non-Manifold Edges

Non-manifold edges can prevent successful exports. Use Onshape’s inspection tools to find and fix these errors:

Use the Check Geometry feature to identify non-manifold edges.
Repair any detected issues using the Fillet or Chamfer tools.

Problem 2: Watertight Model Issues

If your model isn’t watertight, it can lead to printing failures. Here’s how to ensure your model is ready:

Use the Thicken or Shell feature to close any open surfaces.
Make sure all parts of the assembly are properly joined.

Problem 3: Exported File is Too Large

A large file size can hinder your printing process. Here are some methods to reduce file size:

Reduce the number of polygons by adjusting the export resolution.
Consider simplifying complex geometries.

Conclusion

Exporting your designs from Onshape for 3D printing doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can efficiently export your CAD software designs into the STL format, ensuring they are ready for manufacturing and prototyping. Remember to troubleshoot any issues that may arise and optimize your models for the best results.

For further information on 3D printing techniques and materials, check out this detailed resource. If you’re looking for more tips on using Onshape effectively, visit our Onshape tips page.

Happy printing!

This article is in the category and created by 3D Innovation Hub Team