
The 3D Printing Calculations API Clients provide a powerful cloud-based solution for automating critical 3D printing calculations and visualizations. This comprehensive toolset enables developers and businesses to integrate advanced 3D model analysis directly into their applications and workflows.
Comprehensive 3D Model Analysis Features
This API solution delivers precise calculations essential for 3D printing operations:
- Volume Calculation: Accurately determines the material volume required for printing
- Surface Area Measurement: Calculates total surface area for post-processing estimates
- Bounding Box Dimensions: Provides exact model dimensions for print bed compatibility checks
- Build Time Estimation: Generates minimum and maximum print time projections
Supported 3D File Formats
The API supports industry-standard 3D file formats with robust processing capabilities:
- STL Files: Both binary and ASCII variants supported
- 3DS Format: Comprehensive support for 3D Studio files
- OBJ Files: Full compatibility with Wavefront OBJ format
Advanced 3D Visualization Capabilities
The newly added thumbnail generation feature provides server-side conversion of 3D models to preview images:
- Automatic generation of high-quality thumbnails from 3D models
- Visual previews for STL, 3DS, and OBJ files
- Seamless integration with existing workflows
Getting Started with the API
Implementing the 3D printing calculations API is straightforward:
- Create an account on the Manifold platform
- Obtain your unique API key
- Select a subscription plan matching your usage needs
- Begin integrating the API into your applications
Client Implementation Options
The API offers multiple integration paths to suit different development environments:
- PHP: Native client for PHP applications
- JavaScript/HTML: Frontend integration for web applications
- Python: Client library for Python developers
- cURL: Command-line access for scripting and testing
API Usage Example
Here’s a detailed walkthrough of using the API via cURL:
Step 1: Submit a 3D Model for Processing
curl -X POST -F "api_key=your-api-key" -F "[email protected]" --url https://manifold.metamatic.us/v1/compute/
The API responds with a task ID for tracking the computation:
{
"task_id": "67cdd36a-b53b-427e-8f97-42d62a46c1d5"
}
Step 2: Retrieve Calculation Results
curl -X GET --url "https://manifold.metamatic.us/v1/compute/?task_id=your-task-id"
Sample response containing comprehensive model analysis:
{
"volume": {
"value": 63999.92980959427,
"UOM": "mm3"
},
"bbox": {
"value": {
"width": 40.0,
"height": 40.0,
"length": 39.99999809265137
},
"UOM": "mm"
},
"area": {
"value": 9599.993515016226,
"UOM": "mm2"
},
"time": {
"UOM": "s",
"value": {
"min": 2666.663742066428,
"max": 7999.991226199284
}
},
"facet_count": {
"value": 12,
"UOM": "#"
}
}
WordPress Integration
The newly released WordPress plugin simplifies API integration for WordPress sites:
- Easy installation through the WordPress plugin directory
- Simple configuration with API key management
- Shortcode support for embedding 3D calculations in posts and pages
Practical Applications
This API solution enables numerous valuable applications:
- Automated Quoting Systems: Generate instant 3D printing quotes based on model characteristics
- Print Preparation Tools: Verify model suitability before sending to printers
- Inventory Management: Calculate material requirements for production planning
- E-commerce Integration: Add instant pricing to 3D model marketplaces
Try Before You Buy
A free trial is available to evaluate the API’s capabilities:
- Test the API with sample models
- Evaluate response times and accuracy
- Verify compatibility with your workflow
Visit the GitHub repository to access the trial version.
Subscription and Pricing
The API operates on a subscription model:
- Flexible monthly plans to match usage requirements
- Scalable pricing for growing businesses
- Enterprise options for high-volume users
For detailed pricing information and to obtain your API key, visit https://manifold.metamatic.us.


