A tool that estimates the mass of a three-dimensional printed object before it is physically created is a significant resource for individuals and businesses involved in additive manufacturing. By inputting parameters such as the material type, dimensions, and infill density of the intended design, this instrument provides an approximation of the final product’s weight. For example, a designer intending to fabricate a small figurine using polylactic acid (PLA) can input the figurine’s dimensions and desired infill to determine the estimated mass.
The ability to anticipate the mass of a printed part offers several advantages. It allows for accurate cost estimation by factoring in material usage, which is a primary cost driver in additive manufacturing. Furthermore, predicting weight is crucial for applications where weight is a critical performance factor, such as in aerospace, automotive, or drone component design. Historically, determining the mass required physical prototyping, which was a time-consuming and material-intensive process. These estimation tools provide a faster and more efficient alternative.