Will it print: a manufacturability toolbox for 3D printing

Abstract

This study presents the development of a novel MATLAB-based virtual prototyping tool called Will It Print that evaluates part geometry to check for compliance with design-for-additive-manufacturing guidelines relating to manufacturability. Specifically, the tool analyzes the part geometry for potential problems regarding warping, toppling, poor surface finish, and small or overhanging features when the part is produced using fused-filament fabrication. This tool helps designers evaluate the manufacturability of their parts and provides suggestions to change part geometry and orientation to avoid print failures and improve part quality. In this study, Will It Print was used to redesign several models and to choose a build orientation for 3D printing. The original and redesigned models were printed and compared. The redesigned models had lower scrap rates and improved quality. Our open-source MATLAB tool enables novices to engage in virtual prototyping for 3D printing so they can print high-quality parts without inefficient trial-and-error printing. This tool will be especially helpful for students and practitioners with limited access to a 3D printer, such as in remote learning modalities, which have become prevalent in recent years.