How to create the gcode file

[Riverboat 0]

I have created a simple design in DesignSpark Mechanical, saved that design as an OBJ file. In Cura I load that OBJ file. I click on the button that says "Prepare". It does this just fine, tells me how long (estimated) to print. Then I click 'Save to File' and Cura just quits. It doesn't create the gcode file the 3D printer needs. Anyone have any suggestions on what I'm doing wrong?

 

Thanks.

 

P.S. Never printed anything before in my life. Would just like to see it work. Cura 3.4.1 and Monoprice mini 3D printer v2. Cura keeps saying 'Not connected to printer', so I'm just trying to save the gcode file to the micro SD card.

[geert_2 557]

I use DesignSpark Mechanical all the time, but I save the files as STL. My STL-resolution is the default "fine" setting. I never had any problems with that. Maybe you could try that instead of OBJ? Or is there a specific reason why it has to be OBJ?

 

Also in DesignSpark Mechanical, verify that there are no duplicate models sitting on top of each other or partially shifted into each other (=occupying the same space), that walls connected to each other are merged into one object (thus no zero-distance gaps), that there are no zero width surfaces etc... These sort of things could cause problems in any slicer. So you want all parts touching each other merged into one solid object.