2D to 3D Web Browser Modeling Tool -- thoughts?

[nancy 8]

Hi all, I run Mixee Labs, and we do custom products for 3d printing. Recently, I took some of the libraries we built and cobbled together this extrusion based model editor: http://www.mixeelabs.com/mixeepopper

You can scroll down for some examples of models I've made.

The UI is still rudimentary. One thing I'm happy with is the "Sticky Mode" button. You can basically put "screws" on objects and move your cursor around to adhere them to other objects in your workspace--try adding two objects and click the "Sticky Mode" button. I found that most of my rotation/movements is getting meshes to stick to one another.. so this is an easier way to do that.

I'm trying to figure out if I want to keep working on this, and how to integrate it with the rest of my site. I'm thinking about allowing free downloads, but also give people the option to pay per print. After all, most people who come to my website don't have 3d printers. I usually use industrial printers, but I am leaning towards offering desktop prints for this tool (since they will be cheaper). Though, I am afraid that people will create models that require too much support.

What do you guys think? Does this look like a worthwhile project to tackle? (e.g. will this be useful given all the free stuff already available)

 

[nancy 8]

... and for those who don't want to click the link, here's a screenshot and an example of the tool.