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From idea to serving a unique dish

 

3D Model


To 3D print something, the start is to have a 3D model of the object that you want to print. This can be obtained from the following sources. The most used format for these objects is called an STL file.

Design your own in a design program

It is very beneficial to make use of 3d design skills to create or modify your own unique object. Various CAD programs are available for this purpose. Some payed examples are for instance:
Solidworks or Fusion 360.

There are also free software options on the market, such as: Fusion 360 (free for non-commercial use), ThinkerCAD, Sketchup and Onshape Free

Scan an object

One can scan a 3D object and replicate this with the Food 3D printer.

Download an STL file

Besides designing your own object, an alternative is to buy or freely download an STL file from an online library.

Various online libraries exist, such as thingiverse.com, 3dnatives.com or myminifactory.com

Slice

Once you have your 3D file ready (in STL format), it needs to be translated to a language the 3D printer understands. This is called slicing and the result you're left with is a gcode file.

In this file, the object is now divided into the layers and filling to build it up from the bottom up.

Tip:

A gcode file is specific to each printer. It is not possible or recommended to load a gcode file created for a different printer/brand and or model into a printer which it is not specifically created for. This will most likely result in an unwanted result, or worst case break your printer

Simplify3D

We supply Simplify3D with our printers, which is currently the best software available.

Simplify 3D is a user-friendly platform with great features to create your objects on.

Print


A successful print depends on a few factors - here you can read the most important ones:

Ensure the machine is clean

Since we are using the machine to process food, the machine needs to be properly cleaned and hygienic.

Prepare the materials

The paste consistency must be as smooth as possible, without lumps and bumps. Remove all trapped air bubbles, to avoid a gap or hole when printing. Of course, you need to remember that the paste must be thick enough to maintain its shape, but liquid enough to be dispensed through the nozzle.


Upload the gcode file to the printer

This can be done via WIFI or USB

Press start

Depending on the object, it may take a few minutes to a couple of hours.

Use/eat

When your marvellous creation is done printing, you can remove it from the printer.

Your 3D printed food is now either ready to be enjoyed directly, or can be post-processed.

Post-processing could be baking, cooking, heating or cooling.

Remember to thorougly clean your machine so it's ready for the next print!

More information?

Do you want more information about Felix Food Printers? Do not hesitate and contact us: