With this challenge, I experimented with various positions to scan as much surface area as possible from each point. The best position I found was to lay down the part on each side. However, due to limitations in resolution, the scan couldn't capture small details, such as some walls of the model being just 0.5mm thick. Despite this, the scanned mesh will serve as a useful reference in Inventor, providing a clearer picture of the part that needs to be replicated.
This is the final result of the scanning. Unfortunately, I was unable to close the mesh to create a solid model, as the scanning process was inconsistent. While I'm not entirely satisfied with the result, it still serves as a useful reference for future work.
The VZBOT 235 AWD is an open-source project aiming to create a high-speed, high-quality FDM/FFF (Fused Deposition Modeling / Fused Filament Fabrication) 3D printer. These printers work by melting thermoplastic filament and extruding it layer by layer onto a build platform according to a digital design. This layer-by-layer approach allows for intricate and complex geometries to be realized with precision. The Custom VZBOT235 machine supports various thermoplastic materials including PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, TPE, PA, PC, PP, among others, as well as reinforced materials with carbon fiber (CF) and glass fiber (GF).
Fused Deposition Modeling 3D printers are popular for their versatility and accessibility in creating three-dimensional objects. They are celebrated for their affordability, ease of use, and wide range of material options, making them suitable for hobbyists, educators, and professionals alike. Their capability to produce functional prototypes, artistic creations, and even end-use parts underscores their appeal in various industries, from engineering and manufacturing to art and design.
Depending on the operational temperature of the two main heating components, FDM printers can work with a wide range of materials. My 3D printer has a maximum rated temperature of 120°C for the build platform and 440°C for the hotend. These elevated temperatures open the door to using engineering thermoplastics with enhanced durability and stiffness, expanding the printer's capabilities for advanced applications.
3D printing stands out as the optimal choice for rapid prototyping, fast production, and iterative design processes. Unlike injection molding, which becomes costly for low batch orders due to mold expenses, 3D printing offers cost-effective solutions by producing high-quality parts swiftly. This technology revolutionizes product development by facilitating intricate designs with complex geometries previously unattainable through conventional means. Moreover, the ability to incorporate infill structures allows for lightweight and efficient designs, minimizing material usage while preserving mechanical strength and functionality.
Slicing: Orca Slicer
SCARA ARM: MAKERBOT ABS TRUE BLUE
WORKING TEMPERATURE: HOTEND 250C // HEATEDPLATFORM 110C // CHAMBER 65C
ARCHITECTURAL MODEL // Generic PLA Marble: WORKING TEMPERATURE: HOTEND 210C // HEATEDPLATFORM 50C // CHAMBER 35C
Overhangs!!!
SPEED BOART RACE CHALLENGE:
The challenge presented by Annex Engineering, known as the #SpeedBoatRace, invites participants to print a Benchy boat model as quickly as possible using specific guidelines and rules. The aim is to push the limits of 3D printers and promote improvement within the 3D printing community. Here are the key rules for the challenge:
Materials allowed include PLA, PLA+, PETG, ASA, ABS, or ABS+.
Excluded materials are filled, metallic, or silk filaments, which can hide defects.
The print must complete successfully.
Maximum nozzle or line width size is 0.5mm.
Maximum layer height is 0.25mm.
Infill can be combined every other layer.
The entire print process must be recorded.
Use 3 top and bottom layers, 2 walls, and 10% infill.
The finished print must be dimensionally accurate (within reason), with bonus points for aesthetics.
The printer must be powered by stepper motors.
A visible timer or clock in the video verifies real-time printing duration.
Participants must share their printing profiles.
Upload the video to YouTube and provide a link in the designated Discord channel.
The challenge emphasizes fun and friendly competition within the community.
This competition encourages innovation, efficiency, and skill in 3D printing, pushing participants to optimize their printers and techniques to achieve the fastest and most accurate Benchy prints possible.
This week’s assignment involved pushing our 3D printers to the limit by printing a stress test Voronoi dragon. Our goal was to have the prints in hand to directly compare the capabilities and quality of FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) and SLA (Stereolithography) technologies.
FDM 3D Printing: Voronoi Dragon:
This week's groupal assigment we decided to print a Voronoi Dragon from www.Printables.com as a stress test for the 3D printers on the Fab Lab.
As the person in charge of FDM 3D printing, I conducted tests using both the Bambulab X1C and custom Vzbot235AWD 3D printers. These tests involved a torture model designed to evaluate retraction capabilities and the precision of material deposition in small amounts, particularly for high-detail models. To ensure optimal results, the following steps were taken:
Flow Calibration: Calibrating the flow rate to ensure the correct amount of filament is extruded, which helps in maintaining dimensional accuracy and proper layer adhesion.
Retraction Test: Fine-tuning the retraction settings to minimize oozing and stringing during travel moves. This involves adjusting the retraction distance and speed to find the optimal settings for each printer.
Use of Dry FilamentEnsuring the filament is dry to prevent moisture-induced oozing and stringing. This is crucial for maintaining the quality and strength of the printed model, especially for high-detail models.
Travel Moves Optimization: Minimizing oozing during travel moves by fine-tuning travel speeds and using advanced slicer settings like combing or wiping.
Precision in Small Amounts:Focusing on precise material deposition in small amounts to achieve high-detail models. This involves adjusting the printing parameters to handle intricate details and fine features effectively.
Slicing Process (Orca Slicer):
Printing Parameters:
Nozzle Diameter: 0.4mm
Layer Height: 0.2mm
Seams: Nearest
Walls: 2
Top Layers: 5
Bottom Layers: 4
Infill: 10% Gyroid Pattern
First Layer Speed: 140mm/s
Other Layers Speed Range: 200mm/s to 400mm/s
Travel Speed: 1m/s (1000mm/s)
Acceleration Range: 10,000mm/s² - 30,000mm/s²
Support: Manual Tree/On Build Plate Only
Manual Support Painting:
Slicing:
Timelapse Render:
3D Printing Technologies Comparison:
FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) 3D Printers:
Details and Finish
Less Detailed: FDM printers are generally used for projects that do not require high levels of detail. The prints are created layer by layer using thermoplastic materials, which can result in visible layer lines and a rougher surface finish.
Mechanical Parts: Due to their strength and durability, FDM prints are well-suited for mechanical parts and functional prototypes. They can handle higher mechanical loads and stresses compared to SLA prints.
Applications:
Larger Projects: FDM printers are ideal for larger projects because they can build bigger objects more efficiently.
Industry-Standard Materials: FDM uses widely recognized and industry-standard materials such as PLA, ABS, and PETG. These thermoplastics are known for their long-term durability and reliability.
SLA (Stereolithography) 3D Printers
Detail and Finish:
High Detail: SLA printers are known for their ability to produce high-detail prints with smooth surfaces. They use a laser to cure liquid resin into solid layers, resulting in finely detailed objects with minimal visible layer lines.
Surface Quality: The smooth finish of SLA prints makes them ideal for applications where aesthetics and detail are critical.
Applications:
Smaller Objects: SLA printers are best suited for smaller objects that require intricate details and high precision, such as jewelry, dental models, and intricate prototypes.
Experimental Resins: The resins used in SLA printing are still relatively new and experimental. Unlike the well-established thermoplastics used in FDM, the long-term durability and mechanical properties of SLA resins are not as thoroughly studied.
Summary
Understanding the strengths and limitations of each 3D printing technology is essential for choosing the right method for specific applications.
FDM: Best for larger, functional parts where mechanical strength is crucial. Uses thermoplastics that are industry-standard and well understood in terms of durability. Available materials include PLA, ABS, PETG, polycarbonate (PC), polypropylene (PP), fiber reinforced materials, polyamide (nylon), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), and thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).
SLA: Ideal for small, highly detailed objects where surface finish and precision are more important. Uses experimental resins that offer high detail but may lack the long-term mechanical reliability of FDM thermoplastics.
By experimenting with both FDM and SLA printers, and printing the stress test Voronoi dragon, we gained valuable insights into how different 3D printing technologies can be leveraged to optimize product quality for various applications.
Hope you enjoyed this week's assignment! Keep on creating!
