This week we experimented with different materials and manufacturing processes to improve the components of our final project. Our objective was to find a transparent material that would allow the internal lighting system to be visible, which is a key feature of the interactive climbing wall memory game that forms the basis of our final project.
Also you can see the Group Assignment here:
For this assignment, we used the 3D model developed during Week 2 of the course.
WEEK 2The parts were designed in Rhinoceros 3D and correspond to climbing holds for an interactive children's climbing wall, which is part of our final microarchitecture project.
The parts were manufactured using a Formlabs Form 3 resin printer. This machine operates with Stereolithography (SLA) technology, where a laser selectively cures layers of liquid photopolymer resin with high precision. This process makes it possible to produce highly detailed, accurate, and high-quality parts with excellent surface finish and transparency.
The use of Clear Resin V4 was particularly important for our final project because it allows light to pass through the printed pieces, enhancing the visual effect of the illuminated climbing holds.
1. File Preparation
The 3D model was imported into the PreForm software, where the geometry was reviewed and support structures were generated. We selected a support configuration without a base, making it easier to remove the final part without damaging either the build platform or the printed model. The orientation was optimized to improve print stability, detail quality, and overall manufacturing success.
2. Printer Configuration
Next, the appropriate material was selected. In this case, we used Clear Resin V4, which provides rigid parts with high optical clarity. Adaptive quality settings such as layer height and resolution were configured to balance printing time and detail according to the requirements of the model. Before printing, we verified that the resin tank was clean and properly filled and that the build platform was correctly installed.
3. Printing Process
The file was sent to the printer, and the initial stages of the print were monitored. During the process, the laser cured the liquid resin layer by layer until the part was fully completed, achieving the desired level of detail and transparency.
4. Post-Processing
After printing, the part was removed from the build platform using metal spatulas while wearing latex gloves to avoid direct contact with uncured resin residues. The model was then carefully washed with isopropyl alcohol to remove any remaining resin and prepare the surface for the curing process.
5. Curing
The cleaned part was placed in the curing station at approximately 60°C for a period of 15 to 30 minutes. This stage ensures that the material reaches its maximum mechanical strength and dimensional stability while preserving the transparency of the resin.
We recommend using a support configuration without a base, as it simplifies part removal and reduces the risk of damaging either the build platform or the printed model. Additionally, designing parts with internal hollow sections helps reduce resin consumption and promotes more uniform curing.
During the washing stage, it is advisable to perform a thorough cleaning using isopropyl alcohol in two separate cycles and ensure complete drying using compressed air or controlled ventilation. Proper safety procedures should always be followed, including the use of latex gloves when handling uncured resin.
We successfully manufactured transparent resin parts with a high level of detail and a smooth surface finish. The use of Clear Resin V4 allowed us to evaluate the visual effect of internal illumination, which is a critical component of our final project. The printed climbing holds showed improved aesthetics, greater durability, and a more pleasant tactile experience compared to previous prototypes.
Throughout the process, we identified that insufficient cleaning and drying can result in a sticky surface finish. This observation helped us better understand the importance of following each post-processing step carefully to achieve optimal results.
We concluded that transparent resin 3D printing is an excellent manufacturing method for producing highly detailed and visually attractive components. The process allowed us to understand the importance of each stage, from file preparation to final curing, and how each step directly influences the quality of the final result.
For our final project, the transparent resin parts provide significant advantages because they are stronger, more visually appealing, and allow light transmission, enhancing the interactive experience of the climbing wall memory game.
From an architectural perspective, resin printing represents an interesting technology for producing detailed models and prototypes. However, compared to conventional FDM printing, it is a more expensive process and requires considerably longer production and post-processing times.