Pix4D outputs for 3D printing

Pix4D can generate a 3D textured mesh which can be exported in the following formats: .ply, .fbx, .dxf, .obj, .pdf. This 3D textured mesh can be imported into a preferred mesh editor or model slicer.

In order to print, first define the thickness of the 3D object to be printed as well as the scale.

In order to prepare a model for 3D printing in Pix4D, the base (platform) has to be made. To add the base and make the model printable in Pix4D:

1. Define manual tie points (MTPs) all along the hull of the mesh.
2. Offset these MTPs along the z-axis to have a stable base. As a minimum requirement, the MTPs should have the lowest altitude value of the whole project.
3. To complete the base, create surfaces for the base. Firstly, connect the MTPs on the sides. Manually create all the surfaces from the top MTPs to the bottom MTPs, and use the counterclockwise direction to connect points.
4. Manually create the bottom surface (with all the bottom MTPs), and orient the surface towards the bottom (for example from the bottom view use a counterclockwise direction).
5. Ensure to select the option in the right sidebar that all the surfaces will be used for mesh generation and generate the mesh.

The 3D textured mesh can be imported into third-party software and edited for 3D printing.

Using Meshmixer

1. Import OBJ mesh into Meshmixer.
2. Fill in gaps and holes.
3. Make a flat bottom.
4. Export to save it as an STL file.

Using Blender

1. Turn a mesh into a 3D printable object, using Blender: www.makerbot.com.
2. Print using MakerBot.

For more information, click here.

Disclaimer: Pix4D publishes this information as a courtesy to its customers. Pix4D makes no warranty of any kind, expressed or implied, with respect to the content's validity or accuracy.