So this week’s project was 3D printing a device that could not be easily made using conventional manufacturing methods. Although there were several different types of objects that met this requirement, I found the idea of a “ball within a ball” appealing. This sentiment might come from the fact that I didn’t recall there already being an example of this type of object. Other types of objects that I did consider were interlocking systems such as chainmail or complex gearing systems.

After trolling Thingiverse, I found a file of something like what I wanted. You can find the file by clicking here or copying and pasting the link below into the search engine of your choice. There are two options for the file, one with support and one without support. I used the one without support because the printers in the OEDK automatically calculate the support needed.

With the help of a lab assistant I went through the process of setting up my print. I checked the STL file to make sure there were no imperfections or anything else that needed to be fixed. When everything showed green, I finished the setup in the Objet and pressed print. The lab assistant helping me out explained how to remove the support material when the print had finished. I thanked her and went on my way.

When I returned the next day, I saw that some lab assistant had taken my print out of the Objet and cleared away the support material. This is how the finished product turned out.

 Caged Ball Front View

Caged Ball Raised View

If I were to redo the print, I would make a few changes. I would’ve liked to make the outer ball black while leaving the inner ball white. I would also figure out a way to make sure that the inner ball doesn’t print with a full fill.

One thing this project inspired me to do was find out how bottles are made. The shape didn’t seem conducive to a mold because you would not be able to remove the mold without breaking either it or the bottle. After some research, I discovered that both plastic and glass bottles achieve their final shape by blowing air into them at high pressures until they achieve the hollow shape of their mold.

File Link: http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1822086