We do not currently have a 3D Printing class.

We do, however, have a 3D printer and opportunities to use it.

If you'd like to use the 3D printer, please connect with Mr. Birkel

This could be a really good opportunity for an Advanced Computer Project.

Here's a great resource for 3D printing curriculum material: 

• https://maine3d.weebly.com/

• https://classroom.weareprintlab.com/courses

• Youtube: Maker's Muse

  • Playlist - 3D Printing Tips & Tricks

  • Playlist - 3D Printing 101

• Youtube: Teaching Tech

  • Playlist - 3D Design for 3D Printing Tutorials

  • Playlist - 3D Printing for Beginners

• Youtube: Teaching3DPrinting

• Extra 3D printing Resources/Ideas

  • Amazing 3D Printed Games

  • How does a Combination Lock Work? (3D Printed Lock)

• Cool Prints:

  • Bobble Balloon Toy

Youtube - Beginners Guide to 3D Printer Slicers

Youtube - The Ultimate Beginners Guide to Cura Slicer

Youtube - "The Best Cura Settings"

Manual - Prusa Slicer Manual (for general understanding of slicer settings and their meanings)

Video - Slicer Settings for Beginners 3D Printing

Unit 1: Introduction to 3D Printing

• • Overview of 3D printing technology and its applications

  • Introduction to the course objectives and expectations

  • Basic safety procedures and printer maintenance

Unit 2: Basics of 3D Modeling - Introduction to 3D Modeling Software

• • Overview of popular 3D modeling software (e.g., Tinkercad, Blender, Fusion 360)

  • Navigating the user interface

  • Basic shapes and object manipulation

  • Challenge: Simple Keychain using basic shapes w/ your name or initials in them.

Unit 3: Creating Simple Models

• • Creating basic geometric shapes

  • Combining shapes to form simple models

  • Applying transformations (move, scale, rotate)

  • Challenge: Create a geometric sculpture using basic shapes like cubes, spheres, and cylinders. Focus on combining & transforming shapes to form an abstract design.

Unit 4: Preparing Models for Printing - Exporting and Slicing

• • Exporting models to STL format

  • Introduction to slicing software (e.g., Cura, PrusaSlicer)

  • Setting up the printer and understanding print settings

  • Challenge: Design a Phone Stand that holds your phone at a comfortable viewing angle.

Unit 5: Printing and Troubleshooting

• • Loading filament and preparing the printer

  • Printing first models

  • Troubleshooting common issues (e.g., warping, adhesion problems)

Unit 6: Finishing and Post-Processing Techniques

• • Removing supports and cleaning prints

  • Sanding, painting, and finishing techniques

  • Assembling multi-part models

  • Youtube: Make Anything - Add Insane Details to 3D Prints

  • Challenge: Design a small vase to hold a single flower. Apply post-processing techniques such as sanding & painting.

Unit 7: Advanced Modeling Techniques

• • Introduction to complex shapes and structures

  • Using modifiers and tools for advanced modeling

  • Boolean operations (union, difference, intersection)

  • Challenge: Design a chess piece (e.g., knight, bishop).

  • Challenge: Create a 3D puzzle consisting of interlocking pieces

Unit 8: Designing for Function

• • Designing models with specific purposes (e.g., parts, tools)

  • Understanding mechanical properties of printed materials

  • Iterative design and testing

  • Short: 3D Printed automatic inchworm

  • Youtube: The Next Layer - The 5 filament types you need to know (and what they're good for)

  • Youtube: 3D Printing Nerd - Organize ANYTHING in Seconds with this Free App

  • Youtube: Teaching Tech - 5 Tips to start designing your own 3D printed parts - TinkerCad

  • Youtube: Make Anything! - 3D Printing a Home

  • Think smarter, not harder - 6 levels of designing fits

  • Challenge: Design a functional tool or gadget (e.g., pen holder, custom wrench). test & iterate on the design to ensure it works as intended.

Unit 9: Complex Modeling Projects

• • Introduction to organic modeling (e.g., character design, sculptures)

  • Using advanced tools and techniques in 3D modeling software

  • Youtube: The 3D Filament Tier List - Which You Should Use

  • Creating multi-part assemblies

  • Challenge: Create an articulated figure with moveable joints (e.g., action figure, animal model)

Unit 10: Capstone Project - Student-Driven Projects

• • Proposal and planning of individual or group projects

  • Design, modeling, and iterative testing

  • Printing and post-processing final models

  • Challenge: Propose, design, and create a 3D printing project (consider time and difficulty when planning - don't bite off more than you can chew and don't pick something overly easy).

    1. Ideas: Detailed model of a building/room, a functional mechanical device, a themed diorama

Unit 11: Presentation and Reflection -Showcasing Projects

• • Preparing presentations of projects

  • Class presentations and feedback sessions

  • Reflecting on learning and course outcomes

  • Challenge: Prepare a presentation showcasing your capstone project. Include design process, challenges faced, solutions found, pictures & sketches, design/print iterations, etc. Reflect on your learning journey and share insights in your presentation