A user on another forum recommended this company as a good source for rapid 3d Prototyping/part printing. http://printapart.com Has anyone here tried them for anything? Or have any experiences with companies providing similar services?
Yeah, the parts of inexpensive (relatively), but wait until you get the bill for the 3D software you need to make the files they want!
Actually, there are several decent 3D CAD and 3D modelling programs that can output the required files that aren't too expensive and/or free. The real issue appears to be the learning curve of any of the 3D programs you choose, whether it be a high end one like SolidWorks, or a freebie like MoI3d. Since I already have a passing familiarity with 3d modelling, that part didn't concern me as much as the company's rep.
I would get a sample from them first so you can see first hand what their out-put resolution is like.
Last months issue of Fine Scale Modeler had a good article on 3-D modeling, It is worth a read if you are considering delving into the area.
Speaking from 20 years experience, the conversion of 3D models to 3D printing can be problematic, due to the many flavors of each. More and more translators are available, but they usually cost some money.
The one I was directed to was moi3d, which can be found at moi3d.com I haven't downloaded or played with it yet, but it was recommended by a guy on another forum who is using it to make 28mm gaming miniatures that he's then sending out for print - I've seen photos of his 3d prints, and they look good. It's more a tool for artists than CAD, apparently. I'm kind of in a toss up to go down this road - I can see some great applications for it, but do I really want to spend the money at this point in time?