This assignment had to be adjusted due to the current situation where we are not on campus and don’t have access to the equipment like the printers. This semester, create a post on OpenLab that contains screenshots of your model from 3 angles.
It should also answer the following questions:
- What difficulties if any did you have in creating your model?
- Is this your first time using a 3D modeling program?
- How did you change your character from the earlier versions?
After you create a post in OpenLab in your portfolio, type the URL in Blackboard.
This next iteration of your character will introduce you to 3D modelling and printing. You will need to recreate your character in a 3D modeling software (we will be using the browser-based/free Tinkercad), adjust and export it, and print it with an FDM Fused Deposition Modelling Method) printer (we will be using the Ultimaker 2+).
Documentation
You should document every step of this project. You may use screenshots, photography and even video (i.e: to show the machine processing your file). These visual documents should be accompanied by a written statement (use this template for inspiration). It’s also a good idea to include short captions under your images/videos.
Step 1 – 3D modeling
Create a 3D model of your character in Tinkercad. Use the online resources and instructions on the “3D modelling” page to make sure you have a good grasp on the software. Using a mouse (rather than a laptop’s touchpad) will make this 3D modelling process much more enjoyable!
Step 2 – Exporting/Adjustments
Once you are done building your model in Tinkercad, you must export to .STL format. You will then open this file in Cura (the Ultimaker’s software) and send it to the machine with the assistance of your professor or lab manager.
Cura also allows you to easily scale your model. Your finished print should be between 2.5″ and 4 ” tall.
Not every model will print properly. Think about how the PLA is extruded and take gravity into account. A piece that’s too top heavy or which has small items that start in mid-air, won’t work. So what to do?! There are a few work arounds:
- Flip your model upside down (this can be done in Tinkercad or Cura)
- Open the .STL file in Cura and ask the software to create supports for the model. The software will ask for settings and create them automatically. The downside of these supports is that they can be difficult to remove without damaging the model.
- Consider dividing your model into several parts within Tinkercad and gluing them back up together (Gorilla Glue usually does the trick – use a paintbrush).
Step 3: 3D printing
Make an appointment with your lab manager and give him/her your STL file. Even small files can take a long time to print (you can get an estimated printing time within Cura – see screenshot above). It is crucial you abide by the deadline requested by your professor.
Wait for the model to cool completely and carefully remove the supports and build plate (wire strippers or X-acto blades can help).
This assignment had to be adjusted due to the current situation. This semester, create a post on OpenLab that contains screenshots of your model from 3 angles.
It should also answer the following questions:
- What difficulties if any did you have in creating your model?
- Is this your first time using a 3D modeling program?
- How did you change your character from the earlier versions?
After you create a post in OpenLab in your portfolio, type the URL in Blackboard.
