3D Printing with Autodesk®: Create and Print 3D Objects with 123D, AutoCAD and Inventor

11. Why and How to Use 3D Printing

There are three main uses for 3D printing in the design world. The first is to verify that designs are correct and will work. The second is for form and feel, while a third is for low-volume production.

Let’s start with design verification. You may well be asking yourself “Why do I need to 3D print prototypes? I thought modern software can analyze 3D models and can verify that things will work.” Hopefully you asked yourself quietly if other people are within listening range.

Note

A prototype is an early sample or model of an object or a concept that is created to use for testing. When testing of the prototype is successful, other forms are copied or developed from the prototype.

Yes, CAD software can analyze ...