3. 3D Printing#

The purpose of this unit is to 3D-print the lego piece we had to create in module 2. To achieve this, we will be using a software tool that allows us to add printing supports to the piece and to customise the printing settings.

3.1 Getting the file#

The first step I had to undertake to print the lego piece I created on OpenSCAD was to export it as an STL file, and then open this STL file in a program called Prusaslicer. This is a program that allows you to configure your 3D printing settings.

export

3.2 The printing settings#

I then had to import this STL file in Prusaslicer. I chose the 0.20mm print settings and 15% infill. We use generic PLA and the Original Prusa i3 MK3S and 0.6mm nozzle for this class.

printsettings

3.3 Adding supports#

To be able to 3D print my shape, I had to add supports.

supports

I printed one version flat, and these blue markers were the supports I added.

support1

I then tried another version where I printed the piece on its side. For this, I had to add less supports.

support2

3.4 Results#

2pieces

The bottom one (printed on the side) has encountered some problems with the printing of the cylinders. As they were printed from the side, they were printed layer by layer, and there are residues from the supports still sticking to them. The top one, printed flat, has better defined cylinders and clicks better with other pieces.