Getting Started with Rhino 8 for Windows: Exploring the Shrink Wrap Feature with 3D Printing in Mind

November 28, 2023 2 min read

Getting Started with Rhino 8 for Windows: Exploring the Shrink Wrap Feature with 3D Printing in Mind




As a powerful 3D modeling software, Rhino 8 for Windows, which is now available at NOVEDGE, offers a range of new features and enhancements. One of the standout features is Shrinkwrap, which is particularly useful for jewelers, 3D printing experts, and anyone who needs to shell objects or manage mesh-based designs. In this blog post, we'll walk through how you can take full advantage of the Shrink Wrap feature in Rhino 8, with a focus on 3D printing applications.

The Power of Shrink Wrap in Rhino 8

Shrink Wrap is based on voxel technology which doesn't fail. This is a game-changer for designing objects for 3D printing in Rhino. Traditional shelling in NURBS, or Non-Uniform Rational B-Splines, can be a complex and time-consuming process. In contrast, the Shrink Wrap feature in Rhino 8 can take a messy, inconsistent model and transform it into a clean, closed mesh that is ready for 3D printing.

Creating a Lap Joint with Shrink Wrap

Creating a lap joint has traditionally been a challenging task in 3D design software, but Rhino 8 simplifies this process. First, use Shrink Wrap to create a closed mesh from your original model. Next, apply Shrink Wrap again to create an offset of the part. You can adjust the polygon optimization and smoothing iterations to get the desired level of detail. The final step is to create the actual surfaces for your lap joint by running another instance of Shrink Wrap.

Splitting and Shelling the 3D Model

Once you have your main surface, offset, and lap joint, you can begin the process of splitting and shelling the 3D model. Use Boolean Mesh Split to divide the model into two halves. Next, extract the internal parts of the model using the Boolean and Edit Tools. After these steps are completed, you'll have two beautifully split parts ready for 3D printing. It's important to check that the meshes are closed and fix any remaining issues before printing.

Final Thoughts

With Rhino 8's Shrink Wrap feature, you can create complex 3D models, including those with lap joints, more easily than ever before. It's a robust tool for anyone involved in 3D printing or jewelry design. If you want to get started with Rhino 8, visit NOVEDGE to purchase your copy today.

Remember, 3D design is a complex process that requires powerful software. Make sure to choose a product that fits your needs and skill level. For more information about the newest and most advanced design software technology, contact our sales team at NOVEDGE.







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