3D model preparing for rapid prototyping by FDM method

3D printing by the FDM method represents a progressive parts manufacturing technology using available cheap 3D printers. Basic method consists in depositing fibers from the molten plastic material in layers. Common material of the blank is based on polymers. Starting geometry is a 3D digital model of a component created in CAD or obtained by reverse engineering. FDM 3D printing method has certain technological limits, depending on the parameters and configuration of the printing device. Printing of complex parts with the dimensional accuracy and shape demand often requires modification of the model representing correction of related areas. Tools for postprocessing model usually take account of technological settings, eg. plastic coating nozzle parameters, which may particularly for small parts lead to inadequate or unexpected results. The solution may be targeted direct model adjustment. Correction can be performed by design, direct, parametric and non-parametric methods to the 3D model.