Non-manifold geometry exists because one edge is shared by four faces: In the example below, two cubes have one edge in common. This can occur when a face or edge is extruded but not moved, which results in two identical edges directly on top of one another. Non-manifold geometry is defined as any edge shared by more than two faces. Removing non-manifold geometry to ensure you have a manifold 3D model: No internal geometry has been left behind due to booleans: Here's what a model with normals facing out looks like: Be sure to check your internal geometry for any that could have been mistakenly left behind due to booleans. If any are flipped, the 3D printer will recognize them as holes instead. One of the best ways to do this is to check your ‘normals’ and ensure they're all outward-facing. You can find the most common challenges below:Ī watertight mesh is achieved by having closed edges, creating a solid volume, so that if you filled your geometry with water it wouldn't leak. When you're designing a 3D model for a render or animation, you don't have to think too hard about how that model would work in reality as long as you focus on manifold 3D printing however, 3D modeling and digital sculpting for print comes with a number of things to keep in mind.

Maya 3d print