5. 3D Scanning and printing¶
Overview¶
Learning how to work with 3D printers and 3D scanners. I find modeling very interesting.After successfully designing a stand, I found that it takes more effort to familiarize myself with a modeling software, so I will continue to use Fusion360 for modeling. For scanning, I will test the tool of our local lab.
Assignments¶
Group assignment:
- test the design rules for your 3D printer(s).
Individual assignment:
- design and 3D print an object (small, few cm3, limited by printer time) that could not be made subtractively
- 3D scan an object (and optionally print it)
Heroshots¶
Group Assignment¶
Click here to group work.
The machine I use for group assignment:
Ender-5 S1 :
Design Rules:
Design Rules File and Fab Class
Group Assignment Points to Note¶
Leveling is important¶
Instruction Manual¶
English: Link: https://pan.baidu.com/s/1jHaZwOVxD0nrJ24cOuV_tQ?pwd=yuts Code: yuts Chinese: Link: https://pan.baidu.com/s/1jHaZwOVxD0nrJ24cOuV_tQ?pwd=yuts Code: yuts
Polylactic Acid¶
Polylactic Acid (PLA) filament is a recyclable, natural thermoplastic polyester that is derived from renewable resources such as corn starch or sugar cane.
Slicing Software¶
Creality Print Software Tutorial Notes on Software Download and Installation
Creality Print Software Tutorial software function keys explanation
Creality Print Slicing Tutorial slicing Example
FDM¶
“FDM” stands for “Fused Deposition Modeling,” which is a common 3D printing technology.
- Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM): FDM technology works by heating thermoplastic material (such as PLA, ABS, etc.) until it melts and then extruding it through a nozzle. The material is deposited layer by layer to build up the final 3D object.
Full Steps of 3D Printing: From Design to Print¶
Here’s a comprehensive overview of the entire 3D printing process:
Conceptualization and Design:
-
Idea Generation: Determine the purpose and function of the object you want to create. CAD Modeling: Use Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software (like Tinkercad, Fusion 360, SolidWorks, or Blender) to create a 3D model of your object. Ensure the design includes all necessary features and dimensions. Preparation of the Model:
-
Exporting the Model: Save or export your design as a 3D file format that your slicing software can read, typically STL (Standard Tessellation Language) or OBJ (Object File).
- Model Repair (if needed): Use software like Meshmixer or Netfabb to repair any errors in the mesh, ensuring it is manifold and ready for slicing.
Slicing:
- Slicing Software: Open the 3D model in slicing software (like Cura, PrusaSlicer, Creality Print, or Simplify3D). Slicing software converts the 3D model into layers and generates the G-code that instructs the 3D printer how to print each layer.
- Adjust Print Settings: Set parameters such as layer height, infill density, print speed, support structures, and bed adhesion methods. These settings influence the print’s quality and strength.
- Generate G-code: After adjusting the settings, the slicing software will generate the G-code file. This file contains all the instructions for the 3D printer to follow during the printing process.
Printer Preparation:
- Prepare the Printer: Ensure the 3D printer is clean and in working condition. Check that the build plate is level and that there is enough filament loaded for the print job.
- Load the G-code: Transfer the G-code file to the printer. This can be done via USB, SD card, or over a network, depending on your printer’s capabilities.
Printing:
- Start the Print: Begin the printing process by selecting the G-code file and starting the print job on the printer.
- Monitoring the Print: Monitor the print for the first few layers to ensure proper bed adhesion and that there are no immediate issues. Periodically check on the print to ensure it is progressing smoothly.
Post-Processing:
- Remove the Print: Once printing is complete, carefully remove the object from the build plate.
- Clean Up: Remove any support structures or rafts/brims that were used during printing. This can be done with tools like pliers, cutters, or a hobby knife.
- Finishing Touches: Depending on the desired final appearance and function, you may need to sand, paint, or otherwise finish the printed object. Some prints may also require additional post-processing steps such as assembly, gluing, or coating.
Summary
- Design: Create a 3D model using CAD software.
- Slice: Use slicing software to convert the 3D model into G-code.
- Print: Prepare the 3D printer and start the printing process.
- Post-Process: Clean up and finish the printed object.
By following these steps, you can effectively go from an initial concept to a finished 3D-printed object.
Design¶
Object 1: In this case, I am going to design a 3D Printed Lampshade object (small, few cm3) by using rotation, sketching, array, no subtraction
Object 2: Fusion 360 Sphere Object
Object 3: Triply Twisted Torus
Object 4: Lattice Klein bottle; Möbius strip / Möbius band
Possible objects: Penrose stairs; homeomorphism;
Creating the Design¶
A small Lampshade object¶
Create a sketch with half the silhouette of the Lampshape and use Revolve Operation to create the Lampshape body.
To set the pattern only in the majority of the body, leaving the top and bottom blank, I create two offset planes to split the body respectively.
To extrude the top of the lamp:
To make a shell of the body:
To create another offset plane for the bottom of the lampshape and split the body:
Create a plane in the middle of the lampshape, don’t forget to project the lampshape to this plane, and try to add 2 parallel lines, which helps to shape the pattern later.
Extrude the bar symmetricly, select - intersect operation.
Use these 2 symmetric strips to pattern around into a circle: Create - Pattern- Circular Pattern.
Add circular pattern to the mirror strip:
Lastly, export everything as an STL file.
Möbius strip modeling¶
Möbius band is a surface that can be formed by attaching the ends of a strip of paper together with a half-twist.Compared with ordinary rings, Möbius strips have only one surface, regardless of the inside or outside.
Tips: Remember to project the circle onto the current Plane.
Klein Bottle¶
the Klein bottle (/ˈklaɪn/) is an example of a non-orientable surface; that is, informally, a one-sided surface which, if traveled upon, could be followed back to the point of origin while flipping the traveler upside down.
To Design a Klein Bottle model.
Use Move/Copy command, for Copy, remember to check ‘Create Copy’.
To flip these 3 selection.
Select ‘Point to point’ Type to connect the replica to the original one.
Choose ‘Free Move’ type again.
Create Offset line by 2 mm use Offset command.
Create another offset object.
Create the body by Revolve command.
Section Analysis.
Sweep command to create the ‘bottle neck’ part.
The previous operation left 2mm face here. Use Modify - Offset Face command to remove this face.
The number should be -2mm.
To see the inside of the Klein bottle, I want to make a hollow effect / Voronoi Surface to the body. So I try to use Autodesk Meshmixer.
Select - Ctrl+A - Edit - Remesh.
Reset destiny (densification).
Reduce again: to unified topological grid by selecting uniform.
3D Printing¶
Before 3D Printing, we use Cura to do the slicing. And I use JGAurora A6 machine.
Long press the middle mouse wheel button to pan the perspective.
Long press the right mouse button to rotate the perspective.
I use PLA material, Printing Temperature should be 200° , the build plate temperature should be 50°，disable the Cooling option.
3D Print with Ender-5 S1¶
Before 3D print with Ender-5 S1 :
- Export the stl file in Fusion 360
- Using Slicing Softeare to generate G-code. In this case, I use Creality Print, a self-developed FDM slicing software produced by Creality.
To export STL file:
To slice:
- Open file
- Set machine type
- select material
- Parameter Configuration
Paramenter Config: Parameters can be directly used by software presets. For high quality, choose 0.1mm for Layer Height.
To slice:
Export G-code:
Others:
Define cannot be easily made subtractively¶
The model has undercuts, overhangs, print-in-place or nested parts (that can’t be disassembled), etc.
In my case, the KleinBottle, Mobius Band can’t be disassembled, with more complex geometric surfaces.
3D Scan with iReal M3¶
I use iReal M3 to do 3D scan. For ireal3DScan Instruction Manual
How to 3D Scan¶
To perform a 3D scan using iReal 3D Scanner, you typically follow these general steps:
Preparing for the Scan
Set up the Scanner: Ensure your iReal 3D Scanner is set up correctly and connected to your computer or mobile device.
Place the Object: Position the object you want to scan on a stable surface. Ensure the object is well-lit and that there are no obstructions around it.
Performing the Scan Launch the Software: Open the iReal 3D Scanner software on your computer or mobile device.
Calibrate the Scanner (if necessary): Follow any on-screen prompts to calibrate the scanner. Calibration ensures accurate measurements and scans.
Select Scan Mode: Choose the appropriate scanning mode based on the object and detail you want to capture (e.g., fine details, full object scan).
Start the Scan: Initiate the scan process using the software controls. Depending on the scanner and software, this might involve pressing a button or triggering the scan from the software interface.
Move the Scanner Around the Object: Slowly move the scanner around the object, ensuring you capture all sides and angles. Maintain a consistent distance and speed to achieve a uniform scan.
Capture Data: As you scan, the software will capture data points from different perspectives, creating a 3D model in real-time or after the scan completes.
Complete the Scan: Continue scanning until you have captured all necessary parts of the object. Ensure the entire object is adequately scanned.
Post-Processing Review and Edit: After scanning, review the 3D model on your device. Some software allows for basic editing to refine the model (e.g., smoothing surfaces, removing artifacts).
Export the Model: Once satisfied with the scan, export the 3D model in the desired file format (e.g., .obj, .stl) for further use.
Tips for Successful Scanning Lighting: Ensure the object is well-lit from various angles to capture details effectively. Stability: Keep the scanner and object stable throughout the scanning process to minimize errors. Consistency: Maintain a consistent distance and speed while scanning to ensure uniform quality across the 3D model. Clean Environment: Avoid clutter and reflective surfaces that could interfere with the scan. Follow Scanner Instructions: Refer to the user manual or instructions specific to your iReal 3D Scanner for best practices and troubleshooting tips. By following these steps and best practices, you can effectively use iReal 3D Scanner to create detailed 3D models of objects for various applications, from prototyping to digital art and more.
Usage of the product¶
Check here to see how to use this product.