3D Printing Class
Photo by Serene Arches on Unsplash
By Dag Håkon Haneberg, Associate Professor, NTNU
Interested in learning how to 3D print? Have a look at this workshop!
- Duration:
3 hours
- Focus:
Printing 3D objects
- Activity:
Individual or group
- Keywords:
3D printing
About the exercise
3D printing is more accessible than you might imagine! With a bit of guidance, anyone can master the basics, making it an invaluable skill for entrepreneurs looking to bring their ideas to life. Having a physical model of your concept can often spark improvements and offer a clearer perspective on its potential.
In this class, you will dive into creating 3D models from scratch and learn how to convert these designs into printable code using specialized software. As an educator, you will guide participants through the process. No prior knowledge is necessary, and the class is designed to be engaging and easy to follow. The class also offers a great opportunity to explore how 3D printing can add value to ideas and ventures.
For NTNU students and employees, you have access to the DRIV NTNU innovation space, which is used as the basis in this exercise guide. If you are from another university, check out which similar resources are available at your institution.
Learning objectives
- Principles for 3D modelling
- How to draw 3D models using Solid Works
- How to translate the model from Solid Works to code using Prusacontrol
- How to use a 3D printer
Usage suggestions
The class will fit any educator interested in learning and / or teaching how to 3D print. No prior knowledge is necessary.
Materials list and physical space
Materials:
- Access to a 3D printer
- A PC / Mac
- Solid Works
- Prusacontrol
- Digital passport photo
Physical space:
- DRIV NTNU
Pre-work required by students
- Download the software “Solid Works” from NTNU and install it (Windows) or prepare for it to run via NTNU’s Programfarm. Reach out to Orakeltjenesten if you encounter issues. You can find guidance here: https://i.ntnu.no/wiki/-/wiki/English/Solidworks
- Download and install the software “Prusacontrol” : https://www.prusa3d.com/page/prusaslicer_424/
- Bring a PC or Mac with an external mouse that has a scroll wheel
- Send a digital passport photo of yourself to driv@mh.ntnu.no (for gaining access to the printer at DRIV).
- Think about something that you would like to create. Maximum size: 3x3x3 cm. Larger models will take too much time to print during the workshop.
Principles of 3D Printing
Imagine 3D printing as similar to sprinkling powdered sugar on gingerbread—if a shape can be formed with powdered sugar, it can likely be 3D printed.
The process involves plastic material, heat, and precise movement along three axes: x, y, and z. This setup allows for the creation of almost any shape or object you can envision. However, there are some limitations, particularly related to heat and the strength of the materials used, which may influence the durability and functionality of your final product.
Agenda
Step 1: What / Why / How?
So, what should you create? When you have decided on what to create, you should also think about:
– What are the most important functionalities?
– What are the most important goals to achieve?
– How can you create it?
– What is difficult to achieve?
To provide an example, we will have a look at how to design a toothbrush holder.
The toothbrush holder must be precisely fitted to the toothbrush.
Dimensions: Form, height and thickness must be correct.
Functionality: A form that collects.
Functionality: A flat and stable base.
Take a couple of minutes and encourage the participants to try drawing out a model as the example provided below!
Step 2: Modeling
For the 3D modeling, we will be using a software called SolidWorks. SolidWorks provides the tools to create detailed 3D representations of physical objects, among other features. In this software, you will work with planes and axes to define your design space. You can “Extrude”, which allows you to build and extend planes by dragging them to create depth, and “Rotate” to revolve your design elements around specific axes. Additionally, you can precisely define the measurements and proportions of your model, ensuring accuracy in every detail.
Save the file as *.prt
To print, save as *.STL
Step 3: Coding
Prusacontrol is a simple program that helps us translate the Solid Works design into code that the 3D printer understands.
For instance, it will help the printer understand:
- When to move in x, y and z direction?
- When to provide plastic?
- Which temperature should be used?
Step 4: Printing
Finally, the printing part! Here is a simple step-by-step guide.
1. Turn on the printer.
2. Heat up.
3. Input plastic (or “filament”).
4. Output plastic.
5. Start printing.
6. End printing.
7. Evaluate success during printing.
8. Evaluate time used.