David's Project's

So what is 3D printing? Why should I care? These are both great questions to ask when first entering the world of 3D printing and printer.

So what is 3D printing anyway? 3D printing comes in many forms but in this post, I want to discuss what 3D printing actually is. 3D printing uses additive manufacturing techniques to construct objects that are rending in 3D files. These files are made and found in various forms. The basics of a 3D model can be defined by a computer rendered object that contains x, y and z-axis. In other words, these models have height, width and depth. These files can be made in CAD (Computer Aided Design) software ranging in complexity. On the simplicity side of complexity, Microsoft offers software built right into Windows called 3D builder that you can make simple objects and designs. On the other end of the complexity scale, Autodesk makes AutoCAD and Fusion360 allowing people to make more complex designs. If you aren't into making designs there are many websites such as yeggi or thingiverse that let users download all sorts of pre-made 3D model files to print and enjoy.

Leveraging a 3D printer models are loaded into a piece of software called a slicer that will take a 3D model file and generate it into thousands of lines of instructions. These instructions are then saved into a gcode file (in most cases).

Now to circle back and answer the question what is 3D printing. A 3D printer uses a material that can be added to itself layer by layer. This can be plastic, resin, metal and more. When you start a 3D print picture a making Jenga tower. The print starts at the bottom building the first layer and adds layers on top moving along the model until it reaches the top. This is why 3D printing is an additive manufacturing method.

So what's the big deal? I have a 3D printer and I can print a model of the Eiffel tower? Although many users will print models of objects and models (like a sweet Darth Vader bust) it goes much deeper. On an enterprise or business scale, 3D prints can be used for proof of concept before sending objects to be put into production. On a home and hobbyist level, it becomes much more practical than just printing sculpture and trinkets. 3D printing can be used in home repair from fixing that broken fridge latch to replacing a broken door handle on your car. Granted it takes time to learn how to model such repairs and modifications the end result is one of convenience and cost-effective repair. Aside from the physical act of 3D printing it also engages adults and kids alike in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and provides a vehicle for melding art and science.

Why should I Care? Finding a passion for science and technology is a must in today's Job market! As mentioned the more practical prints will save money. Best of all 3D printing is now affordable and accessible by anyone. A good 3d printer can cost as little as $350 dollars and a microcomputer like a raspberry pi ($50). There's a large community online and off that have the expertise to help if you get stuck and best of all you can unleash your creative side.