3D Printing with 3ds Max + TyFlow: Fastest way to clean your models!

If you've ever tried 3D printing your models from 3ds Max or any other software, and had printing issues, then check this out. In this tutorial, we look at a few different optimization methods for ensuring your models are clean, water-tight, and are free of non-manifold edges. Overlapping geometry without boolean operations can cause issues as well, i.e. parts might not stick together, or you can cause a big spaghetti mess of filament. The easiest and fastest way to optimize your 3D models for printing is by using TyFlow and it's super easy VDB tools. It works by wrapping all of your geometry in a single high-resolution mesh, which can be further optimized using the Pro-Optimizer modifier.
0:00 Intro
2:37 What NOT to do
5:55 What is a non-manifold edge?
7:28 Proper boolean method
9:23 TyFlow VDB Method
19:10 Model Optimization
21:55 Final result in IdeaMaker
Download link for TyFlow:
docs.tyflow.com/download/
If you're a complete beginner to using 3d Max, check out the "3ds Max Beginner Crash Course" video here:
• 3DS MAX TUTORIAL: Begi...
For instructional purposes only, I chose to use the IdeaMaker software in this tutorial to demonstrate what a poor VS high quality print file looks like. In general, the practices described in this video will translate to any 3D printing software of your choice. For more info about IdeaMaker, here's the link: www.raise3d.com/ideamaker/
If you're in the market to buy a 3D printer or some new workstation hardware, below are some links to products that I personally use and love. I've chosen to become an Amazon Affiliate so I can promote products that I find to be the most helpful and best quality. By using the links below, I receive a small commission, which greatly helps to support my channel :) Check these out:
I use the Raise3D Pro2 Plus 3D Printer, which can print a huge variety of filaments, and has dual extruders! The print bed is huge, and it prints super fast. There’s some setup involved with this printer, but the great thing is you can customize anything you want on it. This 3D printer is the boss!
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The MakerBot Replicator+ Desktop 3D Printer is my main choice for printing smaller items with super-high precision. This 3D printer is super robust, and it’s literally never failed me. I love the fact that the extruders are easily swappable, and have strong magnets to hold them precisely in place, which make it a breeze to swap for different filament types. Check it out:
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The microphone I use is the Blue Yeti, and after using dozens of microphones in the past, I can confirm this mic is the absolute best for recording your voice during videos and streaming. It’s incredibly easy to set up, literally plug-and-play. There’s a dial on the back that lets you switch for different recording styles, in case you want to record everything in a room, or just your voice. Check it out here:
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When I’m working at my computer, or on the train, or walking around Brooklyn, I almost always have these buds in my ears. The Beats Studio Buds are by far the best wireless headphones I’ve ever used. My wife got these for me as a gift, and they’re so good, I replaced my Apple earbuds with them. The noise canceling feature is awesome for the train, the battery life lasts crazy long durations, and they don’t stick out of your ears and make you look like a dork like other earbuds do. Definitely recommended:
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The keyboard I use is the Razer Pro Type Ultra wireless mechanical keyboard. It feels sooooo good crushing through code and making 3D models with this keyboard. You can connect up to 4 devices and switch easily between them, and it has fully programmable keys. It’s definitely my favorite keyboard I’ve ever had. Check it out here:
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Also, you can follow me on Instagram for news on upcoming tutorials, and to see current art pieces that I'm working on:
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Thanks for watching!!!

[@changsooeun]

You can also use new volume boolean in Boolean modifier. :)

[@keylitho]

I use to use Cura and had this issue.. Switched to Prusa slicer and now I just put all kinds of stuff togeather like your first example and it works perfect.. Treats it like a single object.

[@Cosoasalo]

Really really useful tutorial!

[@alejandrobustillo3169]

Amazing idea, you saved me tons of time, thank you.

[@F10F11hm]

Your tyflow workflows are awesome. Thank you!

[@simulation_lab]

You're welcome! Glad you find them to be helpful!

[@ArcturusMinsk]

VDB to Mesh also has optimization features. Turn on Adaptive and set it to 0.001. This is a cleaner method (nice squares) and retains all details. ProOptimise will reduce the poly count a lot more but produces some messy topology.

[@simulation_lab]

Great suggestion, I forgot to mention that. I think the VDB optimization features might sometimes wipe out smaller details, but should work in most cases. So the ProOptimizer destroys the topology, but that's ok in this case as we're only concerned with reducing poly count. Most 3D printing software don't seem to care about topology, but if you plan to do anything else with the VDB mesh, then yes, you would want to care about topology.

[@nerdisthenew]

This is just 🤯

[@simulation_lab]

Thanks!! I'm glad you liked it :)

[@bibianapinzon2752]

Si me ayudo mucho, muchas gracias, excelente video muy claro

[@abdullahubeyd3060]

thanks

[@simulation_lab]

You're welcome! I hope it was a little helpful :)

[@Bratovchedite233]

Hello, Thank you for the video. It helped me a lot. Can you give me a hint or video that shows how to fill internal empty spaces? Like the building from this video. Thank you!

[@simulation_lab]

Great to hear! To fill internal empty spaces, it's best to create some 3D geometry, like a cube, to cover the internal empty spaces, and add the cube to your "Objects to SDF" operator. For buildings, I typically model the entire interior void as a big solid shape, which will get rid of any interior details once added to the Objects to SDF operator. Hope that helps!

[@bilbob7624]

Great Video. is there a way to do the supports in 3ds max. i.e. a plugin or script?

[@jimmwagner]

More knowledge please! 🙏💻🧠

[@simulation_lab]

Thanks Jimm! Let me know if there's anything you'd like to see covered in a tutorial. Always open to suggestions :)

[@kayson8449]

😳 promo sm