How to add text to a multi material 3D printed part

3D printed multi material part. Text block uses Tango Plus, the main body uses Vero White.

Many people are curious about how to include text elements (or other components) in a 3D printed multi material part. In my last post I described the features of a multi material sample with 10 different materials on it. Coincidentially, I needed to include some text blocks in the body of the sample in order to identify each one of the materials. As we have a Connex 3D printer, the only 3D printing solution able to use 2 materials to build multi material prototypes, I was able to achieve this objective.

In order to emboss text blocks with a different material of the base part, you need to follow this procedure:

1. Model the recess feature (extruded cut) in the base part.
2. Model the text block as a separtate part. Make sure that the dimensions of the letters are exactly the same of the extruded cut in the base part.
3. Create an assembly and position the text exaclty within the recess of the base part.
4. Export the assembly as an STL file. Make sure to UNCHECK the option “Save all components of an assembly in a single file”.
5. In Objet Studio, import all the STL files you just exported in SolidWorks. Make sure to CHECK the “Assembly” option.
6. Select one part at a time, and assign the materials according to your requirements.
7. You can use the “Automatic Placement” option in Objet Studio.
8. You can now save the tray or send the job to print.

You are done, now you have text embossed into a body, with a different material in the same part.