You can 3D print from your phone! Thanks to the advancements in technology, there are now several apps available for both Android and iOS devices that allow you to perform various tasks related to 3D printing.
One popular app is called “Thingiverse” which is available for both Android and iOS. Thingiverse is a platform where you can find and download thousands of 3D printable models. With the app, you can browse through a vast library of designs, save them to your collection, and even upload your own creations. Once you find a design you like, you can easily send it to your 3D printer for printing.
Another useful app is “Sculpteo,” which allows you to design 3D models directly on your phone. It provides a user-friendly interface with various tools to create your own designs from scratch. You can also import existing files and modify them according to your needs. Once you’re done with the design, you can export the file and send it to your 3D printer.
If you have a 2D image that you want to convert into a 3D model, there are apps like “Smoothie-3D” that can help you with that. Smoothie-3D allows you to import 2D images, and using its intuitive interface, you can extrude and shape the image into a 3D model. This is especially useful if you want to turn a logo or a picture into a physical object.
Some 3D printer manufacturers also provide dedicated apps for their printers. These apps often allow you to control and monitor your printer remotely. You can start or pause prints, adjust settings, and even receive notifications about the progress of your print job. Examples of such apps include “Ultimaker Cura” for Ultimaker printers and “MakerBot Mobile” for MakerBot printers.
Additionally, there are web-based platforms like “Tinkercad” that don’t require any app installation. Tinkercad is a browser-based 3D modeling tool that works on both desktop and mobile devices. It provides a simple yet powerful interface for designing 3D models, and you can export the files in formats compatible with your 3D printer.
In terms of my personal experience, I have used the Thingiverse app extensively to browse and download models for my 3D printer. It’s incredibly convenient to have access to a vast library of designs right at my fingertips. I have also used Sculpteo to design simple objects on my phone, and it was surprisingly easy to use despite the smaller screen size.
3D printing from your phone is indeed possible, thanks to the availability of various apps and platforms. Whether you want to find, modify, or create 3D models, there are apps that cater to your needs. With the convenience of mobile devices, you can now take your 3D printing hobby or profession with you wherever you go.