# Custom Supports in Meshmixer

{% hint style="info" %}
Download Meshmixer here : <http://www.meshmixer.com/download.html>
{% endhint %}

Meshmixer Primer can be found here:

{% content-ref url="/pages/-LY4uIQrKnmZywVR8jFv" %}
[Autodesk Meshmixer](/next-lab/3d-printing/external-resources/software-primers/untitled-3.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}

## When to use Tree Supports

Support material is necessary to print overhanging elements within a model. Most FDM printers generate a **lattice** or **grid support** structure. These structures are beneficial because they are universal. However, if only points of a model are beneath the **overhang threshold**, tree supports can be used.

Tree supports are adjustable support structures which are most commonly found in SLA (resin) printing. Tree supports are **point supports**. This means they are most beneficial if only a small portion or point of the model is beneath the **overhang threshold**.&#x20;

The **potential advantages** of using tree supports are:

* More control over support placement
* Possible shorter print times with less filament wastage.

![Figure 0.0 - The Thinker Printed Using Tree Supports](/files/-LY5Nrne8RGlF7LBnPN3)

{% hint style="info" %}
&#x20;*\* Tree supports may not be the best form of supports for long overhanging areas or bridges. These supports are intended for use as **point** supports.*&#x20;
{% endhint %}

## Supports in Makerbot Print

**Lattice Supports** can easily be generated in **slicing software** such as **Makerbot Print**, simply by ticking `[SUPPORT]` under `[PRINT SETTINGS]`.

As shown in Figure 1.0, these supports may be **unnecessarily extensive**.&#x20;

![Figure 1.0 - Supports in Makerbot Print](/files/-LY5NtY0ZENDkQuXPBYf)

## Generating Tree Supports in Autodesk Meshmixer

**Autodesk Meshmixer** is a free software which can be used to generate **smart** or **tree** supports. A model which has been exported from **Rhino3d** or a similar software as an `.stl` or `.obj` can be imported in to **Meshmixer**.&#x20;

### Importing a Model in to Meshmixer

In the main menu in Meshmixer, choose `[import]` and select your `.stl`.

![Figure 2.1 - Import your Model in to MeshMixer](/files/-LY5NvPUPjsHGbec11en)

### Analysing Overhangs

&#x20;Go to `Analysis > Overhangs`.&#x20;

To start, we recommend an **angle threshold** of 45°. This **support angle** refers to the degree a printer is capable of printing without generating supports. &#x20;

![Figure 2.2 - Analysing Overhangs](/files/-LY5NwhaR4LLUzIBXGyX)

#### Angle Thresholds&#x20;

In general, the larger the angle threshold, the more supports will be generated. An angle threshold of 0° will mean that no supports will be generated, whereas an angle threshold of 90° will mean a layer completely on top of the last will require supports.

### Generate Supports

Generate supports by selecting `[1] Generate Support`. In our scenario, a singular support has been generated at the base of the Thinker's knuckles.&#x20;

![Figure 2.3 - A singular and minimum support has been generated at the base of the Thinker's knuckles](/files/-LY5NyCeXmHmY8mcoFUs)

## Comparison of Grid and Tree Supports

Printing with tree supports can result in significant reductions in print time and filament usage. In this case, filament usage was reduced by **12%** (from 16.71g to 14.74g) and the print time was reduced by **18%** (from 1h 32m to 1h 16m). These savings can add up for larger prints.

The tree supports also resulted in less **scarring** on the surface of the print.

![Figure 3.0 - Grid vs Tree Supports: A Comparison](/files/-LY5NzuKQNoFg2YwDcJz)

## Other Resources

The following webpages may also be of use when considering smart supports.

{% embed url="<https://www.prusaprinters.org/how-to-create-custom-overhang-supports-in-meshmixer/>" %}


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