How to apply Textures to 3D Printed Parts with SOLIDWORKS
Article by Rod Mackay updated August 21, 2019
Article
SOLIDWORKS users often need to create complex or repeating features, but these features can be time-consuming to generate, especially on complex models. Some designs, such as a textured surface or a grip, require textures or bumps which can be functional or just for aesthetic purposes. SOLIDWORKS 2019 introduces a new 3D Texture Tool that leverages an image file, turning its appearance directly into a 3D mesh body that is ready for downstream processing or 3D printing.
The workflow for the process is:
- Isolate faces of the model to be 3D printed using the SOLIDWORKS Split feature
- Apply 2D textures to the split faces
- Use the SOLIDWORKS 2019 3D Texture feature for displacement mapping
- Layout the part on a 3D print tray
- Print the part with textures on a Stratasys F123 3D printer
Watch the video below to learn how SOLIDWORKS 2019 3D Texture tool works with Stratasys F123 Series 3D Printers:
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- See examples of 3D printed parts from an F123 series printer:
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