3. 3D printing and scanning¶
Day 1¶
On May 11, 2024, during our third week, we had a session dedicated to 3D printing and scanning.
We began by going through a detailed PowerPoint presentation that covered all the essential information. Following that, we proceeded to download the necessary applications, including Prusa and Creality.
During the session, we familiarized ourselves with the three machines available at the FabLab academy: the Prusa, Creality, and Ultimaker. Our initial focus was on learning how to properly install filament into each machine.
Working as a group of three, we explored the Thingiverse website associated with the Ultimaker.We selected a 3D item from the website and decided to test print it.
Specifically, we downloaded 3D printable fabric files and uploaded them to the Creality machine. To upload the files, we created a new file, selected “File,” chose “Import,” then “Model File,” and finally selected the fabric file. According to the design specifications on the website, we set the infill to 0%. We then selected the K1 printer, sent the G-code, clicked on “Multi Machine,” and initiated the printing process.
Moreover, we learned that we could monitor the printing progress of the machine from our computers using a camera feed. After starting the printing process, we left the fabric to print. When we returned on a subsequent occasion, the fabric was ready for use.
Final fabric
Day 2¶
On May 13, 2024, during the second lesson of the week, we began by observing two previously printed tests that were created to showcase the differences in quality between the Ultimaker and Creality printers. After examining the prints, it was evident that the Creality printer produced clearer results.
Next, we proceeded to design our own 3D models to be printed. As I had previously tested SketchUp and felt comfortable using it, I utilized the software to design a pair of butterfly earrings. However, upon test printing the initial design, it became apparent that the complexity of the design was causing issues. Consequently, I decided to redesign the earrings, simplifying the design for better results.
Once the redesigned model was complete, I exported the file as an STL format. Then, using the Prusa app, I opened the file and added supports to ensure proper printing. Regrettably, the design did not successfully print using the Prusa machine. However, our mentor kindly offered to print the designs for us using the Creality machine. The results from the Creality printer were truly impressive, and the design of the butterfly earrings looked amazing.
Day 3¶
In our third lesson of the week, which took place on May 15, 2024, we began by downloading the Scaniverse application on our phones. The objective was to learn how to create a 3D recording using our mobile devices. The process involved opening the app, selecting “New Scan,” choosing the “Mesh” scan type, opting for “Small Object” size, and then carefully moving around the item we wanted to scan. Personally, I decided to scan a Derby Coffee cup. After completing the recording, the design started processing, and I saved the resulting file.
Additionally, we learned how to use a machine called Skanect, which enables the creation of 3D models of objects. As an exercise, we decided to create 3D models of everyone in our batch. The process involved sitting in front of the Photogrammetry machine and slowly rotating the chair while the machine captured images. On the Skanect application, we followed the steps to prepare the scan, create a new file, start the scanning process, rotate as instructed, and once the scanning was complete, we reconstructed the model. Initially, the model appeared as a white representation, so we proceeded to fill any holes that may have been present. Finally, we applied colorization to the model and exported it.
By utilizing Scaniverse and Skanect, we were able to explore different methods of creating 3D scans, both on our mobile devices and with the assistance of dedicated scanning machinery.
