Instant 3D Printing Quote (FDM, SLA): Order or generate a PDF | 3DVertical

Our new production quoting application is now officially online and 100% functional.

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Features for professionals and engineers: We have developed this tool to simplify your prototyping and production orders in Sherbrooke and throughout Quebec.

Instant Pricing: Analyze your STL files in seconds.

Technology Choice: Compare prices between FDM (thermoplastics), SLA (high-precision resin).

Business (B2B) mode: Need a purchase order (PO)? Instantly generate an official PDF quote for your purchasing department.

Direct Order: Validate and pay in a few clicks to start production immediately.

Simplify your supply chain with 3DVertical.

Backend — reliability, security, standardization

Behind the interface of the production quote application, we developed a server layer that executes critical steps on the backend to guarantee reliable and consistent results, regardless of the browser or device. The objective is twofold: to secure the estimate (price/parameters) and to standardize the processing so that it is compatible with a production workflow.

What the server actually manages:

• Secure API : request validation, access control, anti-abuse limitations (rate limiting) and anti-tampering logic (prices and critical parameters do not depend on the client).
  
• 3D file processing : STL analysis in an isolated environment, metric extraction (dimensions, volume, surface area) and consistency checks.
  
• Document generation : automated creation of PDF quotes (business/PO format) from server-side validated parameters.
  
• Structured storage : secure archiving of files and documents associated with each request (traceability, re-orders, support).
  
• “Production” robustness : retry mechanisms, logging, monitoring and error handling to prevent a complex file from blocking the system.
  

The result: a more stable estimate, better traceability, and a flow that integrates naturally into B2B processes and mass production .

3D design on onshape

Technical Details & Steps

• Digitization and Modeling: Taking precise measurements on the original defective part and complete parametric reconstruction under Onshape .

• Geometric Optimization: Addition of fillets and reinforcement of walls at stress concentration points (around fixing holes) to prevent cracking when screwing.

• Industrial Grade Material: Use of PA6-CF Nylon (reinforced with 40% chopped carbon fibers) offering exceptional rigidity and high thermal resistance.

• Printing parameters: Optimizing layer orientation to maximize transverse tensile strength and ensure an aesthetic and textured surface finish.

Results & Added Value

• Increased robustness: Complete elimination of breakage during assembly thanks to the superior mechanical properties of the carbon composite.

• Durability: Excellent resistance to chemicals and impacts, ideal for heavy-duty use.

From image to a production-ready model

The project began with a simple 2D visual of the Solmatech mascot. No 3D files were available.

The image was fed into an image → 3D model generator, saving the client time and design costs. This approach was possible because the figurine had simple shapes and uncomplicated details.

Some adjustments were then made in Blender to optimize the model for 3D printing and ensure good stability.

Preparation for mass production

Once the model was approved, the figure was prepared in Bambu Studio for FDM production.

The adjustments mainly focused on:

• The orientation of the parts for a clean print
  
  
• Optimizing placement on the board
  
  
• Color adjustments directly during slicing
  
  

The production view shows the arrangement of the figures on the tray, ready for efficient batch manufacturing.

From idea to MVP (functional prototype)

We started with a very concrete need: a removable , reliable cup holder suitable for a performance venue (quick installation, intensive use, easy maintenance). After analyzing the integration constraints, we designed an initial MVP using 3D printing to validate the ergonomics, the cup/glass retention, and the overall size in a real-world setting.

Iterations & optimization for public use

Once we had the MVP in hand, we iterated on the geometry to obtain a robust and repeatable product: adjusting tolerances, reinforcements, radii/chamfers, and optimizing the mounting to ensure stability while remaining easy to remove. The goal: a part that you “forget” about during the event—solid, clean, and ready for heavy use.

Batch production of 500 (ABS + TPU)

After validation, we moved on to production of a batch of 500 units in ABS (FDM) for rigidity and durability. To protect the glass and improve grip, we integrated a flexible TPU base (non-slip, lightweight cushioning, surface protection). Each piece was produced with a series-oriented approach: dimensional consistency, assembly control, and a clean finish, ready for installation.