Embedded Files
Things to be discussed in this post
Things to be discussed in this post
If I don't know how to use CAD software, where can I get some 3D models?
I want to make my own 3D model, what are some good CAD software?
Demo on how to use Prusa Slicer to export Gcode file.
Demo on how to run the G-code file on the printer.
General Process
General Process
Before we start printing, Let's go over a little about what the overall 3D printing project process is going to look like. First, we need to brainstorm for an idea of what we will be printing. Once we finalized our idea for the project, we can then move on to the next step, which is building the blueprint. The blueprint for a 3D printing object is essentially just a 3D model file. Finally, we can parse the 3D model file using parsing software and let the printer read the Gcode file exported from the parsing software. The printer will follow the Gcode command and start printing the object!
OK, so how should I obtain a 3D model file?
OK, so how should I obtain a 3D model file?
This is a website for open sources code and free code/software share. It is a little more difficult to find what you want.
There are many ways you can get a 3D model. Some of them are free and some of them are not. If you did not find any 3D model available online, you can consider making your own 3D model.
Computer-Aided Design (CAD) websites/softwares
Computer-Aided Design (CAD) websites/softwares
I personally recommend using Onshape because it is easy to use, and you don't have to download anything. Plus Onshape supports collaboration with your team. You can work on the same 3D model with other people together!
Start Slicing!
Start Slicing!
Once we imported the 3D model, all you have to do is click on the "Slice Now" button at the bottom right, this will pre-generate the Gcode file using the default configuration.
On the right panel, you can change the print setting, the filament installed on the printer, and the printer model. For advance configuration, click on the gear to the right of each drop bar.
Most of the time, we just want to click Slice Now. If we are using PLA filament for everything
When the software finished parsing the 3D model, You can view layer by layer by dragging the arrow between the printing preview screen and the setting panel.
When you are satisfied with the preview, you can go ahead and click on the "Export G-code" button to export the G-code file to an SD card.
Here is what the exported file looks like for the model above.
the next step is to plug the SD card into the printer and tell the printer to start printing!
Demo on how to tell the printer to read the G-code file
Demo on how to tell the printer to read the G-code file
VID_20220422_232106_01.mp4*I am not able to show the printer working now because the printer is currently under maintenance.
VID_213120514_040212_571.mp4*This video was taken when the printer was working. It is for another project I was working on. When the printer is warmed up, It will start going to each coordinates specified in the Gcode file and print out the filament.
Final Result!
Final Result!
VID_632100629_230009_293.mp4*This video was taken a while ago.
*Here is a PowerPoint I made when a while ago when I was hosting a "Hot to 3D print" technical seminar at Computer Science House (CSH). We had a live demo with the 3D printers we have in CSH.
Thanks for following along! Hope it was helpful! And happy printing!
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