Fill
When printing a solid object, such as a cube on a 3D printer, you can replace the solid inner structure with a honey-combed pattern fill that can vary in size, depending on how strong the object needs to be. This reduces materials used, cost of the object and build time. The fill is needed when printing the top layer of the object because it gives the layers something to rest on and adhere to.
Fill size is measured in percentage; the higher the percentage, the smaller the honey-comb fill pattern.
Supports
DECS 3D printers are extruder style that builds layers upon layers. Sometimes there are gaps or overhangs in an object's design that do not provide a base for the printer to build upon. Supports are automatically added to fill these gaps. These are removed after the object is completed (unlike the fill that is encased in the object), but can leave an uneven surface on the part. If a smooth surface is needed, you may need to reconsider the design of your object or contact the DECS Support Office for assistance with your build.
The non-solid part of the build is removed after the object has finished printing. The red image on the right shows what the surface looks like after the supports are removed.
Disks
If the object spans the majority of the length of the build bed, it is possible that the outer edges may warp. To reduce warping, disks can be added to the corners of an object to help stabilize it. These disks are easily removed after the object is completed.
Contact the DECS Support Office, 1325 Engineering Building, 353-8891, support@egr.msu.edu, at any point in your build process with questions or assistance in designing your object. There are displays of each type of support available in the Support Office.