Welcome to 3D Printing for Architects with MakerBot! This book will take you through the process of building 3D prototypes for simple to cutting-edge architectural design projects using MakerBot Replicator (1, 2, or 2X) and other allied software packages.
Chapter 1, A Primer on 3D Printing, introduces you to different methodologies, technologies, materials, and history of 3D printing with a focus on the MakerBot Replicator 2X.
Chapter 2, 3D Modeling Software, introduces you to modeling practices useful in 3D printing with common free and paid 3D modeling software.
Chapter 3, 3D Printing Software, covers the topic of transforming a 3D model into a 3D print.
Chapter 4, Multicolor Design, explains the utilization of the multiple heads on the MakerBot Replicator 2 in the design process for a model composed of two distinctly different colors.
Chapter 5, Multipart Design, introduces you to creating more advanced assemblies. A special focus is on component tolerance.
Chapter 6, The Community – Thingiverse and GrabCAD, helps you in finding and modifying online CAD resources into an existing design. It also shows how valuable and powerful the community around MakerBot is.
Chapter 7, Iterative Design, explains a culminating example of several iterations of an apartment building's floor plan.