First Peek at my "parcel service" Mack Vision single axle tractor

[HuskerN]

Well, UPS left a package today, and here it is:











HuskerN
www.nscaleaddiction.blogspot.com
www.shapeways.com/shops/NScaleAddict

[bbussey]

Nice.

[jimmo]

Gimme.

[James Costello]

HAWT.

[peteski]

I was thinking....would it make sense to exaggerate certain details on the model (like the door lines, grille pattern, etc.). Then heavily prime the model (to fill in the surface stepping caused by 3D printing), while the molded-on details which are supposed to be visible, would still remain visible under the heavy primer coat.

[3rdboxcar]

very nice.

[JanesCustomTrain]

Noice

Jane

[Glenn Poole]

I was thinking....would it make sense to exaggerate certain details on the model (like the door lines, grille pattern, etc.). Then heavily prime the model (to fill in the surface stepping caused by 3D printing), while the molded-on details which are supposed to be visible, would still remain visible under the heavy primer coat.

I have many of these models and the details are superb, however, I agree with you that by the time you get enough paint on the model to fill in the 3D printing imperfections, there is no detail left.  I have found that it takes sanding and a lot of paint to get the models smooth, which results in the loss of detail.  I'm hoping that some 3 D printers will step up and assure us that they can do a better job than is being done currently.  I have slowed down my purchases considerably as the quality of printing is just not there.

The trailers, on the other hand,  are great as a smooth finish is not necessary to make a great model.

[Philip H]

Those look really nice, and the separate chassis really opens up some detailing possibilities.  Remind me again of the years this truck covers?

[daniel_leavitt2000]

I think they came online sometime in 98-01, but I forget exactly.

[basementcalling]

Drooling

[Ian MacMillan]

A few years too new for me 

[Scottl]

Awesome. You are a machine, I love it. 

How about Rail MOW- you seem to have a talent for this and surely you need it for your layout....

[HuskerN]

Thanks for the compliments guys, and also for the discussion.

I have been stating from the beginning that 3d printing is not the holy grail, and I am on both sides of the argument about quality and evolving technology.  My thinking is that at the present time, there is a huge void in available N scale vehicles, and of all the technologies and methods for producing a model, 3d printing is a good choice at least for me. 

In general, we N scalers beg and plead for our favorite models to be produced, and often complain about the lack of models, or the wrong details, color, or configurations of models that do exist. 

So bottom line is that we all need to have the appropriate expectation when it comes to 3d printing of these models.  I agree that it can be a challenge to preserve detail, while getting a smooth surface, or even getting consistent raw prints from Shapeways.  Believe me, I have had my struggles with Shapeways.

Is having a 3d printed model, even with some of its flaws, worth more than not having that model at all?  AND.... It's not like we even have close alternatives.

For example, if you want a tractor for your 28' parcel pups, you could use a Mack R from Athearn which is very wrong in terms of era, or ???   There are simply no other alternatives RTR.  So I can either print a Mack Vision, or have my trailers standing on their landing gears. 

I'm not trying to advocate my models or 3d printing, but when there isn't even a close alternative to the models I am producing, then it is an easy choice of "take it or leave it".  However, that doesn't mean we have to accept the current quality as standard, and not continue to work towards better models.  Personally, with my limited time, I could either move onto a new design, or pour those same hours into getting one model perfect.  I have chosen to use my design time with more models, as I think this adds more value.

It just takes an appropriate expectation, and understanding of the lack of alternatives to fully appreciate what 3d printing in N scale is currently offering us.  I hope this technology continues to evolve and gain popularity in our hobby, as I think the possibilities are grand.  Of course, the CAD design part is a whole new topic.

HuskerN

[Catt]

All 3D printing needs is a good quality printer. Don't believe me ? got any Mark 4 items compare them to Shapeways.